
Home \| Properties for sale \| Directory \| Contact \| Advertise \| Agents login \| Links \| News
European Property

Nord-Pas de Calais information, France

At France’s most northern tip lies the region of Nord Pas-de-Calais. This region shares a border with Belgium and is a tunnel or hop away from the English Channel. Steep cliffs and sandy beaches adorn its coastline. Nord/Pas-de-Calais is home to the Opal Coast with its immaculately clean beaches, most famous of which is Le Touquet, a popular seaside spot for many tourists. The maritime and fishing industries are strong and stable, and the ferry port of Nord/Pas-de-Calais is the busiest in France.

The architecture here bears very strong Flemish influence, and Arras, the capital and one of the most captivating towns in northern France, boasts of 17th and 18th century Flemish style facades utilizing stones dug from beneath the town. For underneath the cobbled streets are 32 kms of subterranean passageways that were once used by residents to avoid the harsh cold above, with its vast chambers as venue for banquets after dark. During the wars, these passageways also provided shelter.

Often besieged and ravaged by wars, with a long history of occupation by other peoples owing to its strategic position, Nord/Pas-de-Calais is nevertheless a very lively region. Festivals and festivities are celebrated year long and so much a part of daily life, traditions carried over from a distant but revered past. Tourists and locals alike gather to enjoy the parades, fairs and carnivals that are regularly held. The climate is mildly sunny with occasional rains, bringing breezy damp afternoons that lend wonderful contrast to the jolly atmosphere.

Activities along the coast include most water sports such as fishing, boating, and windsurfing. Elsewhere, riding, tennis and golf are also popular leisure pursuits. Shopping at the Cite Europe, Nord/Pas-de-Calais’ famous hypermarket, is a regular past time, as Calais has always been considered a shopping haven. Boutiques along the Rue Thiers, Grand Rue and Rue Victor Hugo offer many wonderful finds from glassware to lace and leather products.

Fresh seafood and other produce are available at the local markets that draw huge crowds of both residents and tourists. Food is at fantastic prices, and the local restaurants serve up magnificent French cuisine. Nord/Pas-de-Calais also boasts of fine locally produced beers and fine though little known cheeses.

Prices of property in Nord/Pas-de-Calais have gone up since the English Channel Tunnel was opened, but remain affordable. They are expected to steadily increase, thus making purchase here a wise investment. The region’s popularity as a yearlong destination also ensures a steady demand for short term rentals. Coastal towns offer higher prices than those inland. Average price for a small farmhouse is 100,000€. Studio apartments in Lille average 50,000€ to 80,000€. A small yet progressive region, with both natural and cultural pleasures, Nord/Pas-de-Calais can make everyday life a wonderful adventure.

« Return to Nord-Pas de Calais

Search for properties

Currency:

Type:

Country:

Region:

Price:

Bedrooms:

Types:

Never miss a property - get email alerts!

Email alerts for French property
Receive automatic email alerts for free! Just register now and we will send you all the French properties that match your criteria straight to your email box. Be the first to see all the latest properties for sale in France.