Somme

Overview

Key Facts

• Type of place: department.

• Location: in the Hauts-de-France region, between Seine-Maritime and Pas-de-Calais.

• Department code: 80.

• Bordering departments: Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais, Seine-Maritime.

• Prefecture: Amiens.

• Sub-prefectures: Abbeville, Montdidier, Péronne.

• Number of communes: 779.

• Population: 572,443 inhabitants (2017).

• Area: 6,170 km².

• Density: 93 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mont d'Arguel (210 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 70 km.

• Highlights (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation-holidays ★★

• Website: http://www.somme-tourisme.com

History of the Somme

Geography and Environment

Culture and Economy

What to See in the Somme

• What to See in Hauts-de-France and the Somme

This may be the most well-rounded department in northern France for tourism. Nature takes center stage here, with the cliffs of the western Picardy coast, the vast beaches of the resorts at Quend/Fort-Mahon Beach, and above all the Bay of Somme, unique in its landscapes and rich environment. Alongside this, the Somme also boasts a strong historical heritage, with the city of Amiens, various remnants of the past (Samara, Rambures, Valloires...), and especially a significant number of sites and memorials commemorating World War I, such as the "Remembrance Trail", Thiepval, or the Great War Museum.

What to Do in the Somme

- Tree climbing: There are four sites dedicated to this activity (see details).

- Sand yachting: This is a well-established "local specialty" in the resorts of Quend and Fort-Mahon (see details).

- Horseback riding: While the department has several equestrian centers, the best opportunities for horseback outings are in the Bay of Somme and the Marquenterre area. This is also where the Henson—a small, pleasant horse for riding—originated (see details).

- Golf: Four golf courses are available in the department (see details).

- Beaches and coastline: The Somme has 70 km of coastline, featuring cliffs (Mers, Ault), pebble beaches (Cayeux), and sandy beaches (Le Crotoy, Quend, Fort-Mahon) (see details).

- Hiking: While not a top hiking destination, the Somme offers various walking trails near the coast and in the countryside. That said, crossing or exploring the Bay of Somme on foot is a highlight (see details).

- On the water: Sailing, canoeing, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kitesurfing (see details).

- Cycling and mountain biking: The department has 45 km of cycle paths and 160 km of "discovery loops." The most popular routes run along the coast or follow the Somme Valley (V30) (see details).

Climate and Weather

The Somme department has an oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and summers that are far from scorching. A common feature year-round is fairly high rainfall. June to September is the most pleasant time to visit.

Sea Temperature Throughout the Year

Transport

Getting There

Getting Around

Accommodation

Food

Further Information