France’s favourite

France’s favourite monument in 2015, the 75m high platform is the perfect perch from which to drink in the magnificent views over the town. And say hello to the giants, adored heritage figures of the north of France, who stand guard on the ground floor. Arras France, sharing snippets of local history to groups of up to six. Completely free. Arras is the perfect small city to leave the car behind and take a stroll. The two main squares are unique in Europe, lined with columned arcades and 155 houses in sumptuous baroque Flemish style. The cobbled Place des Héros, is dominated by the UNESCO-listed belfry which tops the architecturally glorious town hall. Voted Medieval Montreuil-sur-Mer sits atop a hill overlooking the Dordogne-like countryside of the Seven Valleys – there is no sea despite mention of la mer in the name. Take a wander round the ramparts, visit the 16th century Citadel which was fortified by Louis XIV’s engineer Vauban, and stroll the towns cobbled streets and squares and stop for a mug of steaming hot chocolate in the main square before the pretty Italianate theatre. It was in this town in 1837 that Victor Hugo stopped for lunch and was so impressed by his experiences in the town, it inspired him to write Les Miserables. Montreuil-sur-Mer La Coupole © La Coupole Bring history lessons to life: Indelibly marked by two world wars, there are many major remembrance sites in Pas de Calais and many museums and monuments pay homage. In Arras, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Experience in Beaurains offers a fascinating glimpse into the organisation’s 38 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 39