It is difficult to travel anywhere in France without coming across a town or site of particular historical interest, and this is certainly true of the Opal Coast and Picardy. The region takes on a particular resonance for British visitors as we consider events of the twentieth century.

This was a region of intense fighting in the Great War particularly around both Arras and Amiens.  Amiens was the point where the ferocious German advance in 1918 was finally halted and from here the Allied counter-attack finally swept the Germans back.  Arras is particularly noteworthy for the extensive tunnel system constructed beneath the town during the war.  It would be impossible, however, for WWII not to leave its mark on this region. One site in particular, La Coupole (the Dome), near St. Omer demands a visit.  Built to house Hitler’s V2 rockets, it proved indestructible to Allied bombing.  La Coupole offers an opportunity to witness the products of a perverted marriage between war and science.

Our best value sample itinerary from £290

4 Days to the Opal Coast by Coach

Day 1: 
Depart early from school and connect with your channel crossing. Spend time exploring the local area and check in to your accommodation.

Day 2: 
Find out about daily life in occupied France in a history workshop at the former Nazi bunker of La Coupole. Explore the extraordinarily trench-marked landscape of Vimy Ridge.

Day 3: 
Take a guided tour of Peronne museum. Stop off en route to see some of the many memorials and cemeteries of this region.

Day 4: 
Check out of your accommodation and depart for port. If time permits before your return channel crossing, visit a Hypermarket.