Attractions and Places To See around Aix-En-Issart - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Aix-En-Issart include historical landmarks and natural landscapes in the Pas-de-Calais department of France. The village is situated along the Bras de Bronne river, offering a tranquil setting for exploration. Visitors can find ancient farmhouses, a Romanesque church, and traditional covered bowling alleys within the village. The surrounding area, part of the "Pays des 7 Vallées," provides hiking trails and access to larger regional attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Aix-En-Issart
- The…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Montreuil and its citadel
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Saint Saulve Abbey Church
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Chapelle Sainte Austreberthe
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The statue of Marshal Douglas Haig
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Citadel of Montreuil
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Somewhat remote, but very worth seeing
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Montreuil on the sea
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Montreuil on the sea
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The origins of Montreuil, whose name derives from the Latin 'monasteriolum' (small monastery), are closely linked to its religious history. The abbey church of Saint-Saulve in Montreuil-sur-Mer was built in the 12th century and is located on the site of an older monastery dedicated to Saint Walloy, founded in the 10th century. In 926, the monks of Landévennec (Finistère) fled the Norman invasions and found refuge in Montreuil, where they founded the abbey of Saint-Walloy (local deformation of the name Saint Guénolé). In 1111, this abbey changed its name when the remains of Saint-Saulve were brought there. In its original design, the building had a layout typical of pilgrimage churches with an ambulatory and radiating chapels. In the Middle Ages, the numerous relics attracted pilgrims to Montreuil and gave the town a character of holiness. It was then nicknamed 'The Necropolis of Ponthieu'. The reconstruction after the earthquake of 1467 caused the collapse of at least six religious buildings, including the Hôtel-Dieu and the Saint-Saulve church, which was completely rebuilt at the beginning of the 16th century.
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The Abbey of Sainte-Austreberthe is one of two large monasteries in Montreuil-sur-Mer, originally founded in the 10th century. The protection offered by the ramparts in the context of Viking raids gave the Norman nuns of Pavilly the certainty of preserving the relics of their patron saint: Austreberthe. She is a Merovingian aristocrat from Marconnes near Hesdin. The current buildings were built in 1736 and 1750. They still include the cloister and the chapel. During the French Revolution, the nuns temporarily left France for England, taking with them the treasure trove of sacred art and the relics it contained. With the dissolution of the community at the beginning of the 19th century, works of art and precious reliquaries, including the crosier of Saint Austreberthe, were deposited in the abbey church of Sainte-Saulve, where they are still located.
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Montreuil is a royal citadel built in the 16th century on the foundations of an ancient castle. You can explore the citadel and its fortifications, admire the architecture and views of the Canche valley, and discover the history of the site. You can also visit the museum located inside the citadel, which features exhibits on the military and natural heritage of the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore directly within Aix-en-Issart?
Within Aix-en-Issart, you can visit the 11th-century Saint-Pierre Romanesque Church, which still retains four original pillars. The village also features charming old farmhouses and traditional clay-built houses, along with two calvaries. Don't miss the unique wooden Traditional Covered Bowling Alley (Quillier), built in 2012, which hosts local bowling competitions.
What historical attractions are there in the wider region around Aix-en-Issart?
The region offers several significant historical sites. Just 7 km away, Montreuil-sur-Mer is a historic fortified town featuring a 16th-century royal citadel. You can explore the Citadel of Montreuil, which is built on older castle foundations and offers views of the Canche Valley. Other notable sites include the Saint Saulve Abbey Church and the Chapelle Sainte Austreberthe, both in Montreuil-sur-Mer, and the 18th-century Cistercian Valloires Abbey, located about 14 km away.
What natural features can I find within Aix-en-Issart?
Aix-en-Issart is nestled along the Bras de Bronne River, a branch of the Canche river, bordered by willows. The village also boasts a picturesque waterfall near an imposing old mill, complete with pollard willows and a fish pass, contributing to its tranquil natural charm.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking around Aix-en-Issart?
Yes, Aix-en-Issart is surrounded by natural landscapes and is part of the 'Pays des 7 Vallées,' offering various hiking paths for exploration. You can find numerous walking routes in the area, including easy to moderate trails. For more detailed routes, explore the walking routes guide for the region.
What other outdoor activities are available near Aix-en-Issart?
Beyond walking, the area around Aix-en-Issart is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. You can find a variety of routes for different skill levels. Check out the dedicated guides for MTB Trails, Cycling, and Gravel Biking to discover routes like the 'Canche Estuary' loop or trails through the 'Forêt domaniale d'Hesdin'.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions near Aix-en-Issart?
The region offers several options for families. Exploring the ramparts and citadel of Montreuil-sur-Mer can be an engaging historical adventure. For nature lovers, the Jardins de Valloires (14 km away) provide beautiful formal gardens to wander through. The nearby Forêt d'Hesdin (14 km away) is also great for family walks and enjoying nature.
What is the 'Festival des Illuminés' in Aix-en-Issart?
The 'Festival des Illuminés' is an annual summer festival of French songs held in Aix-en-Issart. It takes place on the last weekend of July and significantly increases the village's population, offering vibrant cultural entertainment and a lively atmosphere.
What are some notable gardens to visit near Aix-en-Issart?
The area is home to some remarkable gardens. The Jardins de Valloires, located about 14 km away, are particularly well-known for their beauty and design. Another highly-regarded option is The Jardin des Lianes, approximately 22 km from Aix-en-Issart.
What coastal resorts or beaches are accessible from Aix-en-Issart?
Several popular coastal resorts are within easy reach. Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, an upscale and popular resort, is about 19 km away. Fort-Mahon-Plage, known for its popular beach, is approximately 25 km from Aix-en-Issart. These offer opportunities for seaside relaxation and activities.
What is the best time of year to visit Aix-en-Issart for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months are ideal for outdoor activities around Aix-en-Issart, especially for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Bras de Bronne River. The 'Festival des Illuminés' in late July also adds a cultural highlight to a summer visit. The region's mild climate makes it pleasant for exploration during these seasons.
Are there any significant towns or cities nearby worth visiting for a day trip?
Absolutely. Montreuil-sur-Mer (7 km away) is a must-visit for its historic citadel and charming streets. Further afield, Boulogne-sur-Mer (33 km away) offers an old town with ramparts, a castle, and the large Nausicaá aquarium. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme (36 km away) is also considered one of the nicest towns in the region, particularly for its historic areas and proximity to the Baie de Somme.
What is the 'Pays des 7 Vallées' and how does it relate to Aix-en-Issart?
Aix-en-Issart is situated within the 'Pays des 7 Vallées' (Land of the 7 Valleys), a region known for its scenic rivers and natural beauty. This designation highlights the area's rich natural landscapes, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for hiking and enjoying tranquil riverine environments.
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