Visiting the walled town of Gravelines

If you’re on your way to Dunkirk or Bruges, don’t forget to stop in at Gravelines, a historic port and seaside town in Hauts-de-France. 

Is Gravelines worth visiting?

Yes, Gravelines is certainly an interesting town, steeped in maritime history and heritage, as well as having an amazing beach! 

While the old town has notably well preserved ramparts, many people will be drawn to the Plage du Petit-Fort-Philippe, a haven for sand yachting and kite flying, and the long channel that connects the beach to the star-shaped island town. The two areas on either side of this busy stretch of water, called Grand-Fort-Philippe and Petit-Fort-Philippe, are good spots to watch the boats. Gravelines is a world-renowned centre for rowing, and is home to the purpose built venue, the PAARC Rives de l'Aa, where international competitions are held.

Plage du Petit-Fort-Philippe

Why is Gravelines famous?

History has left its mark on Gravelines. This small town in Hauts-de-France was once the western frontier of Spanish-ruled Flanders, and fortified for that reason. It was established in medieval times as a port, with a canal created from the river Aa to connect it to the important trading town of Saint-Omer. The 17th-century French military architect Vauban, whose forts dot the Opal Coast, was responsible for the star-shaped fortress, bastions, moat and ramparts that characterise the old town of Gravelines. War between Spain and France meant that the town changed hands several times – it wasn’t until the 19th century that French became the official language of Gravelines. 

Henry VIII met the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V at Gravelines in 1520, and the English fleet won a major battle with the Spanish armada off the coast here in 1588. 

Drive to Gravelines from Calais

Gravelines is only 18 miles (30 km) from the LeShuttle terminal, between Calais and Dunkirk. It takes 25 minutes to drive to Gravelines from Calais on the A16 autoroute. There are no tolls on this route. 

Top things to see and do in Gravelines

The best way to see Vauban’s fortifications is by boat

Walk the ramparts or take a boat on the moat

Walking the perimeter of the town along the ramparts is an essential thing to do in Gravelines. It’s known as the ‘Vauban Promenade’, and is a pleasant stroll, with the stonework now a haven for wildlife and landscaped gardens. Some of the old bastion and arsenal buildings have been converted into cultural spaces. What a pleasure it is to actually see a fully functioning moat, and how effective a defence it would have been! The whole town is surrounded by water, and you can sail around it. Many people hire a pedalo, rowing or electric boat from the Pier Vauban and do just that. 

Explore Gravelines old town

Take the tunnel from the ramparts and you’ll emerge onto Place Charles Valentin, the main town square. Here you’ll find shops, restaurants, bakeries, bars and, most importantly, free car parking! It’s a typical French square, with plenty of civic and national pride on show. You’ll notice there is a Flemish feel to much of the architecture – a nod to the town’s past. Pop into the Saint-Willibrord Catholic Church, which has a fine nave and altar, and wander round the gardens of the Bastion de l’Arsenal, with its collection of arresting bronze sculptures. 

Visit museums and cultural spots

The belfry at Gravelines

The belfry in the town square is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of notable belfries in Belgium and France. The tower is 27 metres high, and is open to the public on selected days during the summer, and on Fortified Sites weekend in late April.

The Museum of Original Drawing and Printmaking is housed in the former arsenal, and is the only museum in France solely dedicated to the art of engraving. Notable prints by Dürer and Picasso are on display. 

‘Le Jean Bart’ is also worth a stop. You’ll find this unique site just outside the old town. A team of volunteers are building a replica of a 17th century French Royal Navy ship, based on measurements and materials from original designs and salvaged shipwrecks. Have a bite to eat at the adjoining restaurant, the ‘Taverne du Jean Bart’. The ship isn’t due to be finished until 2030, so you’ve still got plenty of time to see the ship taking shape. 

Discover Gravelines’ waterfront and lighthouse

The beach at Petit-Fort-Philippe is a little closer than Iceland!

The 2 km channel cut between the old town and the coast was another measure to protect Gravelines from invasion. There’s always plenty of activity on the water, whether it’s fishing boats heading out to sea, or teams of rowers training on the dead straight channel. If you’re lucky there might be a regatta, or the Nautical Festival going on! The black and white lighthouse on Petit-Fort-Philippe is arguably the most distinctive sight in Gravelines. The lighthouse is open to the public at weekends during the summer and on special heritage days. There are several restaurants and cafés on the Petit-Fort-Philippe side.

Visit Gravelines in France with LeShuttle

Gravelines is a true hidden gem on the coast of northern France. Make it your first stop after your 35-minute crossing on LeShuttle!