Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme: a terroir to discover

Cover photo: Rue des Moulins in Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme ©Shutterstock/Ralf Gosch

Nestled on the banks of the Somme Bay, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is an inviting place for a leisurely stroll. With its cobbled streets, colourful houses, and breathtaking views over the estuary, this medieval town is one of the “Most Beautiful Detours in France“, hidden gems off the beaten path, where heritage truly comes to life

What to see and do in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme?

You can’t visit the town without being charmed by its spectacular landscapes, rich history, and local specialities. Here, maritime traditions blend with well-preserved architecture and cuisine rooted in the Picardy region. Below are some must-see attractions.

The Courtgain district and the Calvaire des Marins

A former fishing district, the Courtgain charms visitors with its narrow streets and flower-covered façades. Its low, brightly painted houses recall a time when locals fished for grey shrimp, known as la sauterelle (‘the grasshopper’).

Climb up to the Calvaire des Marins, this moving promontory offers breathtaking views over the bay. It was here that families once scanned the horizon, waiting for sailors to return.

The quays and Belle Époque villas

Stroll along the tree-lined quays named after famous navigators, where majestic 19th-century villas stand as reminders of the golden age of shipowners and sea captains.

At the far end, the beach stretches out before a row of Belle Époque mansions, evoking the splendour of the early seaside resorts.

La cité médiévale 

Enter the old town through the Porte de Nevers and follow the cobbled streets to Saint-Martin Church, with its Romanesque and Gothic influences. Walk up the Belfry route, lined with half-timbered houses, to reach the Guillaume Towers, impressive 11th-century ruins linked to William the Conqueror.

Founded in the 7th century, the Benedictine abbey has withstood the centuries despite periods of destruction. Today, the neighbourhood also features charming rural houses made of cob and brick, a testimony to a vibrant agricultural past, still celebrated during the Saint-Fiacre festivities.

The sailors’ chapel

Perched on the heights, this neo-Gothic chapel overlooks the bay. Built in honour of Saint Valery, an evangelising monk, it watches over the town from its bell tower, topped with a metal seagull that has become a local emblem. Inside, the chapel is rich in votive offerings and maritime-themed stained glass, reflecting the deep connection between faith and the sea.

From here, the view of Cape Hornu is exceptional. Legend has it that this chapel was especially dear to the wives of sailors waiting for their return…

Don’t miss the chance to taste the bay’s seafood treasures.

Discovering Saint-Valery-sur-Somme also means discovering a unique cuisine shaped by the sea, the land, and local traditions. Take the time to savour these local specialities, simple in appearance, yet surprisingly rich in flavour.

The culinary treasures of the sea

On the bay, grey shrimp, affectionately nicknamed “grasshopper” by the locals, are a true institution. Caught on foot with the tides, they’re eaten fresh and simply to appreciate their delicate, salty flavour. Alongside them, salt marsh plants offer flavours as rare as they are authentic. Salicornia, crunchy and slightly salty, adds character to fish and salads. Sea aster, also known as “pig’s ear”, surprises with its tender texture and subtle, vegetal taste.

Be careful, though, these natural treasures can’t be picked at will. Their harvesting is strictly regulated to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Somme Bay. The best way to enjoy them is still to savour them at a local restaurant or at the home of a professional fisherman.

The Picardy region

But the bay isn’t just about the sea, it’s also grounded in the generosity of the Picardy region, with family dishes rich in both flavour and memories. Bistou or bigalan, a rustic pie made with potatoes, onions, and bacon, warms the heart like a winter evening by the fire. More refined, ficelle picarde, a gratinated crêpe filled with ham and mushrooms, embodies the region’s culinary savoir-faire.

And to finish on a sweet note, it’s impossible to resist gâteau battu, a golden brioche with a light crumb and an unmistakable buttery flavour, just as delicious at breakfast as it is at afternoon tea. Here, gastronomy is more than a pleasure: it’s a way to connect with the region, to understand its rhythms, its customs, and its traditions. In Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, we don’t just admire the bay, we taste it.

It’s an immersion in living heritage, between sea and countryside, between popular traditions and religious history. Take the time to stroll, chat with the locals, and savour every moment in this gem of the Somme Bay. Along the way, discover our Teritoria establishments and earn rewards through our loyalty programme. Memories are made to be shared, so find inspiration in our newsletter, or surprise one of your loves ones with our gift cards and boxes.

By Émilie FALLOT NGUYEN