Uncover local gems, family-friendly adventures, and ‘Sea Travel Differently’ this Easter with Irish Ferries.
The long Easter weekend is a great opportunity to escape to France for an early spring holiday. From the historical city of Amiens to the coastal region of Boulogne-sur-Mer and lesser known Wissant, France has a whole range of fascinating and accessible destinations for the whole family to enjoy.
Irish Ferries invites travellers to ‘Sea Travel Differently’ with a hop across the English Channel to enjoy the perks of slow travel in lesser-known destinations. Easily pack the car full of picnic essentials, cycling equipment, Easter baskets, kids’ toys, plus all the wine, chocolate, and market souvenirs you can carry.
Start the Easter weekend with a journey from Dover-Calais to some of France’s most charming yet lesser-known destinations, including…
Boulogne-sur-Mer, France (36 minutes from Calais)
The charming region of Boulogne-sur-Mer is the perfect coastal destination to visit in early spring to enjoy the changing seasons. Mild temperatures along the Opal Coast in April make it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Wissant, a lesser-known city nestled on the coast, offers breathtaking cliff views and flies under the radar of most travellers, making it the perfect spot to take in local culture. Enjoy a morning stroll along the sandy beaches or hop on a bike and explore the scenic trails. Experienced cyclists can discover the iconic views of the White Cliffs of Dover from Cap Blanc-Nez trail, while leisure cyclists take an easy ride through peaceful forests and picturesque villages on the Vallée de la Liane Greenway. Finish the day with dinner at one of the family-run seafood restaurants in Wissant village centre like La Table d’Opale.
Maincy, France (3 hour 45 minutes from Calais)
Home to the famous Grand Easter Egg Hunt at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, and less than four hours from the port of Calais, Maincy is an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of history and holiday fun. Parents can enjoy the17th-century French architecture while children embark on an exciting Easter egg hunt. Plus, a trip to Maincy isn’t complete without sampling the local specialty, coq au vin – a rich red wine and chicken stew found at traditional French bistros. For fine dining, a 30-minute drive to Fontainebleau is a must. Plus, the ease of traveling by car means a day trip to Paris is less than an hour away.
Loire Valley (5 hour 12 minutes from Calais)
Known as the “Garden of France”, the Loire Valley is full of rich history, exceptional food, and fine wine, making it the perfect destination for couples looking for a slow getaway. Spend the day exploring renowned wine regions like Sancerre and Vouvray, then head to the lively city of Tours for bustling markets and exquisite dinners. With Irish Ferries, it’s easy to pack the car full of your favourite wines and cheeses to enjoy at home or bring back as gifts for friends and family, meaning you can take a little slice of Loire home with you. Plus, just over five hours from Calais, the journey is as much a part of the holiday as the destination.
Amiens, France (1 hour 45 minutes from Calais)
Amiens is a great destination for all types of traveller – whether a history buff, foodie or outdoor enthusiast. History lovers can explore the Somme battlefield and war museums to discover some of the lesser-known facts of WWI, then later indulge in the foodie scene with Flamiche and local delicacy Amiens Macaroon – a sweet, almond-based treat – while enjoying the vibrant local culture. Families will appreciate the ease of reaching the destination and the variety of outdoor activities from kayaking the Somme to strolls around the floating gardens. Just under two hours from the Port of Calais, Amiens is easy to reach by car making it a great destination for weekend getaways.
With Irish Ferries, it’s easy to drive aboard the ferry and reach France this Easter weekend. Whether looking to relax and explore one city for the entire trip, or hop around to multiple destinations, travelling with a car gives holidaymakers the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace.
5-day short breaks start from £138 return with free WiFi on board. Bring up to 9 people away in your car and enjoy delicious dining options, relaxing lounges, and stress-free shopping at Duty Free – the journey starts the moment you drive aboard.
To book your Easter getaway, visit www.irishferries.com.
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About Irish Ferries
Irish Ferries is the market leading and award-winning Irish ferry company, operating on routes between Britain and Ireland (Holyhead to Dublin, and Pembroke to Rosslare), Britain and France (Dover to Calais), and Ireland and France (Dublin to Cherbourg).
Irish Ferries is an operating division of publicly quoted Irish Continental Group (ICG).
On Irish Sea routes, Irish Ferries operates up to 16 sailings a day, with a fleet of modern cruise and fast ferries, including the famous Ulysses, Dublin Swift fast craft, James Joyce on Holyhead to Dublin and Isle of Innisfree on Pembroke to Rosslare.
Irish Ferries also operates the stylish W.B. Yeats connecting Dublin to France (Cherbourg) throughout the year.
Irish Ferries launched its Dover to Calais service in June 2021 and currently operates a fleet of two ships on the route, Isle of Inishmore and Oscar Wilde, with up to 20 sailings daily
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