Find real France
Those who want their French fix without hours of driving, are discovering that Boulogne is a perfect day trip or weekend stopover. It’s very easy to get to. From Calais it’s just 20 minutes down the autoroute A16 (a toll-free part). And you'll find that Boulogne is a snapshot town of quintessential France. Perfect for those who love French food and wine, crave French culture and the café lifestyle – are discovering that this coastal city has it all:
Medieval centre – check. Castle – check. Gorgeous countryside and beaches – check. Fabulous boulangeries and patisseries – check. Loads to do – check.
And restaurants that you never want to leave because they’re so delicious – check.
Which brings me to La Matelote, a Michelin Star restaurant that’s been shining a light on French gastronomy for more than 40 years.
La Matelote
In the March 3, 1888 issue of the New York Times a journalist wrote of “a galaxy of Gallic femmes a barbe”, ladies with beards, and of their popularity in France. In fact, so popular was the look that some women took to wearing fake beards and whiskers. In Boulogne-sur-Mer in the far north of France, one of the most famous of bearded ladies was Clémence Lestienne. Born Clémence Clarisse in 1834, she was known as much for the sweet treats she sold at markets in northern France as she was known for her looks. By the time she was 16 it was said that no one could compete with her gingerbread.