The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Montreuil

There are over 300 family-friendly hiking routes around Montreuil-sur-Mer, with more than 150 of them rated as easy. This means you'll find plenty of options suitable for all ages and fitness levels, from short strolls to longer adventures.

The Montreuil-sur-Mer area is rich in natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes. You can expect to see the tranquil River Canche and its picturesque valley, the expansive Baie de la Canche, and the stunning Baie d'Authie. These areas are known for their unique coastal ecosystems and offer opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Yes, the coastal areas near Montreuil-sur-Mer are famous for their seal colonies. For a chance to spot these fascinating animals, consider the Berck-sur-Mer Beach – Seal sandbank at Berck-sur-Mer loop or the View of the Baie de Authie – Seal sandbank at Berck-sur-Mer loop. These routes offer excellent opportunities to observe seals in their natural habitat, particularly at low tide.

For families with young children, the La baie de la Canche loop from Camiers is an excellent choice. It's just over 6 km long and rated as easy, making it perfect for a leisurely family outing. The trail offers beautiful views within the Réserve Naturelle de la Baie de la Canche.

Montreuil-sur-Mer is lovely for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, especially for coastal walks, but can be busier. Even in winter, many trails are accessible, offering a different, often serene, experience, though you should always check local conditions.

Absolutely! Montreuil-sur-Mer itself is a historic walled town. You can explore the medieval ramparts, which offer fantastic views across the surrounding countryside and the River Canche. The Citadel, a listed Historic Monument, is also a significant point of interest. For specific attractions nearby, consider visiting the Seal Beach (Plage des Phoques) in Berck-sur-Mer or the unique The Pebble Bridge.

Many trails in the Montreuil-sur-Mer area are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the Réserve Naturelle de la Baie de la Canche, to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your dog.

Parking is generally available at the start points of many popular trails, especially in towns like Montreuil-sur-Mer and coastal villages. For public transport, local bus services connect Montreuil-sur-Mer with surrounding areas, though direct access to all trailheads might require some planning. It's advisable to check local transport schedules in advance for specific routes.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Montreuil-sur-Mer, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful coastal scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly the seals. The variety of easy routes makes it a popular choice for families looking to enjoy nature together.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Montreuil-sur-Mer are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the La baie de la Canche loop is a great circular option. Circular routes are ideal for families as they bring you back to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.

Montreuil-sur-Mer itself offers a charming selection of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries, perfect for a pre-hike snack or a post-hike meal. In coastal towns like Berck-sur-Mer, you'll also find various eateries close to the beach and trail access points. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.