Welcome to the Audomarois Marshes of Saint-Omer, an exceptional tourist destination for nature and history lovers. Magnificent in all seasons, you can discover it on foot, by bike and of course by traditional bacôve or escute boat.
The Audomarois Marshes are a spectacular wetland region, home to a rich and varied flora and fauna. With its 3700 hectares, 700 kms of which 170km are navigable, you can discover the sinuous canals that cross the flooded lands, as well as the numerous species of birds, fish and mammals that inhabit this region. Several companies organise boat trips to Clairmarais, Tilques, Salperwick, Nieurlet and the marsh house in Saint Omer. For a more complete visit you can visit the “faiseur de bateau”, the last manufacturer of traditional boats in the marshes, which combines a visit to its workshop with a nature tour.
If you prefer hiking, there are many paths that will allow you to discover the picturesque beauty of this region, with breathtaking landscapes. I recommend the Laensberg path between Tilques and Serques, a bucolic path where you will come across fishermen, houses and cottages by the water, and for people with reduced mobility, the nature reserve of the Romelaere ponds in Clairmarais, specially designed to make this lush nature accessible to all. Guided tours are also available, to give you an insight into the history and culture of the region. The Eden 62 association organises nature tours and you will also find some interesting things at the Nature Barn in Clairmarais at the entrance to the Romelaere Ponds Reserve.
Nature discovery activities are also offered, where you can learn about the biodiversity of this region, as well as the importance of conserving this unique ecosystem. The ecotourism activities will give you a better understanding of the canal systems that have been created by man to protect the floodplains and preserve nature.
The Marais Audomarois is the last cultivated marshland in France, known for its market gardening and its food-producing agriculture, cauliflowers, endives or “chicon” from Saint Omer, carrots from Tilques. The local gastronomy is also worth discovering, with tasty dishes that highlight the fresh produce of the region.
In short, the Audomarois Marshes are a must-see tourist destination for all those seeking to recharge their batteries in the heart of a preserved nature and to discover a region steeped in history and culture. Come and discover this wonderful region of St Omer and Clairmarais!
