The town of Gravelines France

Places we have visited in Gravelines our photos and guide.

The town of Gravelines is a short distance from Dunkerque on the banks of the river Aa. The town has a growing marina and is a busy seaside town during the summer.

You can visit the fortified Citadel on foot or by boat well worth a visit. You can go on organised walking tours around the towns fortifications. Or you can take the boat trip round this maritime fortress. The ramparts are fully restored and you get some great views of the channel that leads to the sea.

There are lots of nice houses by the river with there own moorings

Gravelines like most French towns has a large town square where you can park your car. When we were last there a couple of months ago it was free to park for the first hour. Then you have to pay to stay longer. There is a market on Friday mornings.If you are in the area in December the evening Christmas Market is very good we go to it most years. If you want to stay in the town there is a good choice of Hotels, B/Bs and a campsite.

The town has a good range of interesting shops and cafes, restaurants. Places to eat in the town.

Google street map

The map shows the main square where the market is held.You can park there the first hour is free

Places to visit in the town and nearby

1. Tour of the Citadelle Vauban (Vauban Citadel): This 17th-century fortress was built by the renowned military architect Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Gravelines Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse is located on the banks of the Aa River and is a great spot to take in the views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Church of Saint-Géry: This 16th-century church is one of the most impressive religious monuments in Gravelines and is home to some beautiful stained glass windows.

4. Museum of the Battle of Gravelines: Located in the old military barracks, this museum tells the story of the 1558 battle between the Spanish and French armies.

5. Eglise Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité: This 16th-century church is a great example of late Gothic architecture and is home to some stunning artwork.

6. Cap Gris Nez: A popular day trip from Gravelines is to the nearby Cap Gris Nez, a stunning stretch of coastline and a great spot for whale watching.

7. Dune du Perroquet: This large sand dune is a great spot for a relaxing stroll or a spot of sunbathing.

8. Dunkerque Port: The nearby port of Dunkerque is full of fascinating history and is a great spot for a day trip.

A gift shop in Gravelines

We were looking in the window as the shop was closed for dinner. The lady who owned the shop opened it and let us in.We bought 3 little presents which she gift wrapped for free.Plus we got a free chocolate each it would not happen in the UK

• try Oye Plage
• The old town of Guines

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