Arras is a unique and beautiful city situated in French Flanders. Beneath the city lies a network of tunnels and rooms carved in the chalk, which were used during the Middle Ages for storage and in 1917 for shelter by the Allied Troops prior to the Battle of Arras. Guided tours of Les Boves (the tunnels) are available through the local tourist board.
After the war, reconstruction was careful to keep the lovely Flemish architectural style, so unlike many areas rebuilt in modern styles, Arras maintains the appearance of an ancient town unscarred by war. The beautiful Saint-Vaast abbey and cathedral in the neo-classical style house the Fine Arts museum, hosting displays of the history of Arras through artefacts and art, as well as a superior collection French and Old-Dutch paintings. The university town has a thriving art scene, with the summer packed with art festivals, pageants and concerts and in November hosting L’Autre Cinéma, the International Film Festival of Arras.
Only 70 miles from Calais and 73 miles from Boulogne, an hour and a half drive from the French coast will have you enjoying the lovely architecture by carriage ride through the streets of Arras. Book today for a beautiful weekend in Arras!