The Good Life France Magazine Autumn/Winter 2019 | Page 49

Boulogne-sur-Mer

in

Boulogne-sur-Mer is where you’ll find a beautifully preserved old town and the Basilica Notre Dame which has the longest crypt in France (dating back to Roman times). Cobble stone streets, ancient buildings, a chateau museum, quirky shops and fab restaurants – and don’t miss the UNESCO listed Belfry where you’ll see cannon balls fired on the town by King Henry VIII.

Julius Caesar took off from here to invade England in 55BC, Napoleon mustered an Armada for the same purpose centuries later, the history of Boulogne-sur-Mer is long and rich. There plenty to do and see in the lively town and close by. Janine Marsh explores the secrets of the port city….