Attractions and Places To See around Criel-Sur-Mer - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Criel-Sur-Mer include a blend of natural coastal features, historical landmarks, and architectural heritage. The region is characterized by its chalk cliffs, pebble beaches, and the verdant Yères Valley. Visitors can explore sites reflecting the area's past and enjoy outdoor activities within its diverse landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Criel-Sur-Mer
- The most popular attractions is La Cise Cliff, a natural monument that features chalk cliffs overlooking the Bay of Somme. These cliffs are composed of chalk from the Upper Cretaceous period and contain flint nodules. It offers panoramic views and is part of a scenic hiking area.
- Another must-see spot is Belle Époque houses of Mers-les-Bains, a historical site showcasing around 300 villas from the Belle Époque era. These houses feature Art Nouveau styles with metal or wood balconies, colorful facades, and ornate decorations. The district was largely designated as a remarkable heritage site in 1986.
- Visitors also love Saint Martin's Church, a church built in 1928 in Roman-Byzantine style. It features a 17th-century altarpiece and stained glass windows. The church is located in the oldest part of the city and offers views of the area.
- Criel-Sur-Mer is known for its coastal landscapes, historical architecture, and natural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from cliffs and beaches to historical buildings and natural reserves.
- The attractions around Criel-Sur-Mer are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 290 upvotes and over 130 photos shared across 21 highlights.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Belle Époque houses of Mers-les-Bains
Highlight • Historical Site
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Saint Martin's Church
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La Cise Cliff
Highlight • Natural Monument
Flint horizons are stratigraphic markers. On the cliffs of Ault, the regular flint band called Seven Sisters is recognizable and characterizes the boundary between the Middle Coniacian and the Upper Coniacian (around 87 million years ago). The boundary between the lower and middle Coniacian is marked by the Shoreham 2 marl level, which is more difficult to identify. These lithostratigraphic markings allow in particular the correlation of distant deposits, such as between the Normandy and Picardy coasts, or between the French and English coasts.
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Le Tréport Funicular
Highlight • Rest Area
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Viewpoint overlooking the cliffs of Le Tréport
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The current church, built in 1928 in the Romanesque-Byzantine style, is located in the oldest quarter of the city. It has a Latin cross plan, oriented northwest and southwest. The roof is slate, and the nave is covered with long sides and open gables. It features flamboyant stained-glass windows, a listed 17th-century altarpiece, and a Saint Martin's effigy.
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The first funicular railway in Le Tréport was inaugurated on July 1, 1908, in the presence of Gaston d'Orléans and his wife Isabelle, Count and Countess of Eu. Thanks to its popularity, more than 2,000 travelers purchased their round-trip tickets in the first month of operation. This amazing idea was born after the extension of the Eu-Le Tréport electric tram line to serve the "Les Terrasses" district proved impossible due to the significant elevation difference on Rue de la Commune de Paris.
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you don't have to take the cliff top path on the last stretch to Treport funicular
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Above the cliffs of Le Treport there is a great view over the city, the sea and the cliffs of Mers-les-Bains.
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Take the funicular up to the cliffs/chalk cliffs. Four cabins travel up and down in an inclined elevator, free of charge.
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The church is located in the oldest part of the city. From here, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Criel-sur-Mer?
The region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. You can explore the majestic chalk cliffs, such as La Cise Cliff, which offer panoramic views of the English Channel. The tranquil pebble beaches of Criel and Mesnil-Val are perfect for relaxing or shellfishing at low tide. Additionally, the verdant Yères Valley provides a haven for nature lovers with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and horseback riding.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in Criel-sur-Mer?
Yes, Criel-sur-Mer boasts a rich historical and architectural heritage. You can visit the Saint Martin's Church, a Roman-Byzantine style church with a 17th-century altarpiece. The Manoir de Briançon, a late 16th-century building, now serves as the town hall and houses a library. Don't miss the unique 19th-century seaside resort architecture, especially the Belle Époque houses of Mers-les-Bains, known for their ornate facades and Art Nouveau styles.
What are the best places for scenic views around Criel-sur-Mer?
For breathtaking views, head to the chalk cliffs, particularly La Cise Cliff, which offers expansive vistas over the Bay of Somme. The Bois de Cise, a picturesque natural site, also provides a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the Baie de Somme estuary. You can also take the free Le Tréport Funicular to the heights of the city for a global view of Le Tréport, the sea, and the Normandy coast.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
The pebble beaches of Criel and Mesnil-Val are family-friendly spots for relaxing by the sea and shellfishing. Exploring the unique architecture of the Belle Époque houses of Mers-les-Bains can also be an engaging activity for families. The Yères Valley offers gentle paths suitable for family walks amidst nature.
What outdoor activities can I do near Criel-sur-Mer?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking along the chalk cliffs and through the Yères Valley. For cycling, there are numerous routes available, including road cycling and mountain biking. Explore options like the 'Ault Chalk Cliffs – Cliffs of Ault loop' for road cycling or 'View of CRIEL-SUR-MER – View of Criel-sur-mer loop' for MTB. Find more details on specific routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Criel-Sur-Mer and MTB Trails around Criel-Sur-Mer guides.
Are there any notable architectural styles or buildings to see?
Absolutely. The Belle Époque houses of Mers-les-Bains are a highlight, showcasing around 300 villas with Art Nouveau styles, metal or wood balconies, colorful facades, and ornate decorations. In Mesnil-Val, you'll find streets like Rue de la Mer featuring a rich architectural heritage from the 19th-century seaside resort boom, with unique blends of timber frames, brick, and flint walls.
What is the Bois de Cise and why should I visit it?
The Bois de Cise is an exceptional natural site, classified as picturesque since 1959. It's a small coastal wood that became a renowned seaside resort during the Belle Époque. You can enjoy charming walks along its small paths and wooden stairs, discovering beautiful villas from that era. It also offers a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the Baie de Somme estuary.
What are the pebble beaches like in Criel-sur-Mer?
The pebble beaches of Criel and Mesnil-Val are known for their tranquil atmosphere and colorful cabins. They offer a relaxing spot to enjoy the sea air and crashing waves. At low tide, they are popular for shellfishing, where visitors can find mussels, periwinkles, crabs, and shrimp.
Can I find any ruins or ancient structures in the area?
Yes, you can discover the powerful flint walls of the Château du Besle, which are the remaining vestiges of an imposing medieval fortress. Criel-sur-Mer also has historical significance with Gallo-Roman vestiges found during excavations, indicating a history dating back to Celtic times.
What are the options for cycling around Criel-sur-Mer?
Criel-sur-Mer offers diverse cycling opportunities. Road cyclists can explore routes like the 'Saint-Aubin Church – Briançon Manor loop'. Mountain bikers have trails such as 'Très belles maisons – Belles maisons loop'. For gravel biking, consider routes like 'Le Tréport Harbor – View over the cliffs loop'. More detailed routes and guides can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Criel-Sur-Mer, MTB Trails around Criel-Sur-Mer, and Gravel biking around Criel-Sur-Mer guides.
What is the significance of the Yères Valley?
The Yères Valley is a significant natural area through which the coastal river Yères flows. It's characterized by wetlands and meadows, boasting diverse flora and fauna, including rare species. Classified as a Natura 2000 area, it's important for biodiversity and flood prevention. It's an excellent spot for hiking, horseback riding, and fishing, offering scenic views and historical vestiges.
Is there a unique way to experience the cliffs of Le Tréport?
Yes, you can take the free Le Tréport Funicular. This inclined elevator takes you up to the heights of the city, offering a unique and convenient way to reach the clifftops and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the Normandy coast.
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