Attractions and Places To See around Planques - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Planques. Planques is a commune in the Pas-de-Calais department, serving as a base for exploring the surrounding Hauts-de-France region. The area is characterized by green landscapes, valleys, forests, and rivers, particularly within the nearby Vallée de la Canche. This geographical context offers a variety of cultural sites and natural features for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Planques
- The most popular attractions is Town of Hesdin, a historic town known…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Town of Hesdin
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Source of the River Lys
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The woodland along the banks of the Canche
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Canche Valley: Montreuil- Hesdin
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Hesdin & Belfort Town Hall
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The source of the Leie (French: la source de la Lys) is located in the small French village of Lisbourg, situated in the Pas-de-Calais department in the Hauts-de-France region. The river originates here at an altitude of approximately 115 meters and flows via Aire-sur-la-Lys towards Belgium, eventually flowing into the Scheldt in Ghent after approximately 202 kilometers.
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Town of Hesdin: pretty town of church and historic building with a beautiful mix of architecture; with cafes, restaurants and shops in the city center for a nice break.
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The ornate town hall, built of brick and stone, dates from the 16th century. It was once the palace of Mary of Hungary, the sister of Charles V. The central loggia depicts Philip IV of Spain and Isabella of Bourbon, surrounded by the Seven Virtues. The loggia (bay window) dates from the time when the palace was converted into a town hall (1629); The roof was added in 1702. The mayor can address the people from here. The belfry is on the UNESCO world heritage list
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The Vallée de la Canche is a beautiful region in northern France, located between the towns of Montreuil and Hesdin. The area is characterized by its green landscape of valleys, forests and meadows, crossed by seven small rivers: the Authie, the Canche, the Ternoise, the Créquoise, the Planquette, the Bras de Brosne and the Lys. Cycling is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful area. The 7 valleys have a total of 500 km of hiking trails and dozens of cycling routes. Along the way you can enjoy relaxing views of villages, old farms and the ancient backdrop of hedges and hedges. On the edge of the Canche lies the town of Hesdin, whose current center dates back to the 16th century. The belfry of Hesdin is an eye-catcher, as is the 17th-century town hall, several historic houses and the Gothic church. Other beautiful places in Vallée de la Canche include the villages of Aubin-Saint-Vaast, Boubers-sur-Canche and Conchy-sur-Canche. For the best view of the valley, however, you should go to the picturesque fortified town of Montreuil-sur-Mer, where you can walk over the ramparts. After a day of cycling you can enjoy a romantic sleeping address in the green and taste fresh products from the country (including cheese, honey, snails, currants) in one of the many local restaurants and estaminets. There are also plenty of accommodations available in Montreuil for cyclists looking for a comfortable place to stay. In short, cycling in Vallée de la Canche between Montreuil and Hesdin is a great way to explore this beautiful area and enjoy all it has to offer.
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The ornate town hall, built of brick and stone, dates from the 16th century. It was once the palace of Mary of Hungary, the sister of Charles V. The central loggia depicts Philip IV of Spain and Isabella of Bourbon, surrounded by the Seven Virtues. The loggia (bay window) dates from the time when the palace was converted into a town hall (1629); The hood was added in 1702. The mayor can address the people from here. The belfry is on the Unesco world heritage list
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The banks of the Canche are lined with wooded areas made up mostly of willows, alders or even ash. Among other things, they make it possible to limit flooding, slow down the current, stabilize the banks with their roots implanted in the banks.
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Source of the leie! how this little bit of water can turn in to a huge river
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical towns can I explore near Planques?
You can visit several historic towns. The Town of Hesdin, just 11 km away, boasts a 16th-century center, an ornate town hall, and a UNESCO-listed belfry. Montreuil-sur-Mer, about 23 km from Planques, is a fortified town where you can walk along its ramparts for scenic views of the Canche Valley. Further afield, Aire-sur-la-Lys and Saint-Omer also offer attractive historic centers.
Are there any notable natural features or landscapes to see?
Absolutely. The picturesque Canche Valley, located between Montreuil and Hesdin, is characterized by its green landscapes, valleys, forests, and meadows, traversed by seven small rivers. You can also visit the Source of the River Lys, a natural feature marking the origin of this significant river.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Planques?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities, especially in the Vallée de la Canche, which features over 500 km of hiking and cycling trails. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes, including those detailed in the Cycling around Planques and Road Cycling Routes around Planques guides. Runners can also find suitable paths in the Running Trails around Planques guide.
Are there any significant religious or architectural sites to visit?
Yes, the Notre-Dame Church is a notable site, featuring a beautiful portal typical of the late Renaissance and an 18th-century Baroque interior. Additionally, the town of Hesdin boasts a Gothic church, and Saint-Riquier, further south, has an attractive Benedictine abbey church and a belfry.
Can I visit any gardens or parks in the area?
Garden enthusiasts have several options. The Jardin des Lianes is about 17 km southwest. You can also explore the formal gardens of Valloires Abbey, an 18th-century Cistercian abbey located approximately 24 km west-south-west. Other beautiful gardens include Les Jardins de Sericourt and Les Jardins de Maizicourt.
What coastal resorts or beaches are accessible from Planques?
Several popular coastal resorts and beaches are within reasonable driving distance. Le Touquet, an upmarket seaside resort, is about 35 km west. Fort-Mahon-Plage and Le Crotoy, both known for their beaches and resorts, are located further west-south-west in the Somme department.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Planques?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. The historic towns like Hesdin are praised for their beautiful architecture and charming centers with cafes and shops. The natural landscapes of the Vallée de la Canche are enjoyed for their relaxing views and extensive trails, perfect for cycling and exploring villages and old farms.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Planques?
While specific family-friendly categories aren't listed for all attractions, the historic towns like Hesdin offer pleasant strolls and exploration for families. The extensive network of trails in the Vallée de la Canche provides opportunities for family walks and bike rides. For a larger attraction, Nausicaá – Centre National de la Mer, located about 45 km away, is a significant tourist attraction that could be a great family outing.
What is the best way to explore the Vallée de la Canche?
Cycling is highly recommended as one of the best ways to explore the Vallée de la Canche. The region offers 500 km of hiking trails and dozens of cycling routes, allowing you to enjoy relaxing views of villages, old farms, and the ancient backdrop of hedges. You can find specific routes in the Cycling around Planques guide.
Are there any markets in the nearby towns?
Yes, the town of Hesdin hosts a market on Thursdays, offering a chance to experience local life and find fresh products. Aire-sur-la-Lys also has a market on Fridays.
What kind of historical architecture can I see in Hesdin?
In Hesdin, you can admire the ornate Hesdin & Belfort Town Hall, built of brick and stone in the 16th century. It was once the palace of Mary of Hungary. Its central loggia depicts Philip IV of Spain and Isabella of Bourbon, surrounded by the Seven Virtues. The belfry is also a UNESCO world heritage site.
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