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Exploring Beauvais
If you are fortunate enough to have your own transport, exploring the Picardy region and beyond is a must. There is a multitude of towns and villages around Beauvais and Paris is just to the south.
Located to the north of Beauvais, up the A16 toll-road, is the capital of the Picardy region, Amiens, which is famous for housing the largest Gothic church in France. The 13th century Cathédrale Notre Dame is a shining example of architectural efficiency with its soaring, richly adorned façade.
Also of note in the town is the local art and history museum, which is housed in an elegant 17th century mansion. The Somme River flows through the centre of the city, and in the surrounding region are many WWI cemeteries, testament to some of the bloodiest battles in history.
Lying to the west in Normandy country is the cathedral city of Rouen, with its many half-timbered houses lining the twisting cobbled streets. Rouen's historical district is punctuated with splendid monuments, including: the cathedral, visible from St Catherine’s Hill on the outskirts of the city, and the huge gilt clock of the 14th century gatehouse.
Rouen also has some superb museums, the most interesting being the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which focuses on 17th to 19th century impressionist paintings, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Monet and Renoir.
To the south of Beauvais is the ‘city of light’ and the capital of France, Paris. Located on the Seine River, Paris is one of the best travel destinations in the world, having everything a visitor could possibly wish for. The city is home to the best museums and finest buildings anywhere, superb dining (both expensive and cheap) as well as a couple of landmarks you may recognize.
A stay in Paris should at least include: a visit to the Louvre (one of the best museums in the world); a climb up the Eiffel Tower; a journey to the top of Notre Dame Cathedral; a shopping frenzy day followed by relaxation in one of the many parks; and a night out on the town.
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