Visit to Arras and Le Touquet, September 2010

Recently members of the French groups and some friends from Newport U3A set off for a weekend visit to the historic town of Arras and the popular, fashionable seaside resort of Le Touquet, in northern France.

Staying in Arras, the hotel just a short walk from the town centre, members were able to explore the town and special places of interest. The town's Grand Place has one of the largest market squares in Europe, lined by gable-topped Flemish style houses. Connected via the Rue de le Taillerie is a second square, Place des Héroes with Gothic facade buildings beneath which are arcades with shops, restaurants and the glorious Town Hall, which is lit up at night and nearby the 18th century Cathedral.

On Saturday we went to Le Touquet, or "Paris Plage" as it is sometimes known, due to the rich Parisian's love of the area for weekend retreats. Even in September, there were many people enjoying the vast sandy beach and even some brave souls in the water! Many of us took a ride on the Little Tourist Train which travelled inland from the beach, and the driver/guide pointed out the historic buildings including hotels, the famous Casino and the expensive villas amid acres of woodlands as well as sports facilities and the racecourse. The driver also told us how the resort was created in 1876 by a Monsieur Touquet (she pronounced it Took-it) from an area of wild sand dunes and scrubby forest.

Arras and Le Touquet have many restaurants and cafes offering the very best of French cuisine, sampled and enjoyed by all members.

Newport U3A would like to express its grateful thanks to the Big Lottery Fund for their support of the trip.

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