From the Trenches to Tables: Calais to the Outskirts of Paris

Depart from Calais, the historic gateway between France and England.
As you leave this crucial port hub, you'll emerge into a scene of rolling hills and ancient forests. However, this now peaceful landscape is etched with the echoes of the fierce battles that unfolded during the First World War, stories which will be explored further when you reach Arras.

Take the opportunity to prepare for your forthcoming journey by using the IONITY charging station at the Aire de Rely services. Stretch your legs while charging your car, and make use of the facilities on site.

A Michelin-recommended brasserie, located in the 17th century Château de Beaulieu.
Set in a picture-perfect copse of trees and part of the delightful Le Château de Beaulieu, the Brasserie Côté Jardin will welcome you for your delectable lunchtime appointment. Take advantage of their outdoor eating option and enjoy their menu, which offers you the choice of five starters, two meats, two fish and a vegetable dish, as well as five desserts.
Chef Christophe Dufossé will delight in treating you to the local dishes and ingredients of his home region when you visit his Michelin recommended brasserie. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table in advance. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.

A museum revealing the history of the First World War underground city and its role in the Battle of Arras.
The Carrière Wellington is a fascinating museum, being an extensive network of tunnels that were used by the British Empire and Commonwealth troops during the Battle of Arras in 1917.
The museum will help you discover these tunnels that descend 20 metres (65.62 feet) beneath the streets of Arras, and were big enough to accommodate up to 24,000 soldiers ready for one of the First World War's most bloody battles. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book your visit in advance. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.

Park your vehicle in the impressive Grand' Place, which is lined by splendid Baroque Flemish-style buildings. Prepare to walk through to the equally stunning Place des Héros.

A medieval tower offering panoramic views of Arras from the rooftop lookout.
Approach the magnificent edifice that is the Hôtel de Ville, and look for the entrance to the Office de Tourisme. It'll be from here that you'll be able to ascend the soaring Beffroi.
As you survey the elegant buildings that surround the Place des Héros below you, reflect on the fact that this tower was almost completely destroyed during the First World War. The tower and the town hall were painstakingly reconstructed between 1927 and 1931.

A local-favourite wine bar in the heart of Arras, boasting a cellar brimming with organic and biodynamic wines.
After catching your breath from your tower descent, visit La Dame Jeanne, a hidden gem of a wine bar and café near the entrance of the Beffroi. Treat yourself to a coffee while you enjoy that favourite French pastime of people-watching as you sit by the Place des Héros.
Perhaps the non-drivers would rather have a tempting glass of wine while you relax? La Dame Jeanne has an excellent wine cellar, with a focus on wines produced from organic and biodynamic farming. 🗓️ Check the opening hours before your visit.

A one-star Michelin restaurant serving a simple yet exquisite menu, highlighting the finest regional ingredients.
Arrive at the banks of the Marne, on the edge of the French capital. Originally a 16th-century mill, Le Quincangrogne has been welcoming guests since 2015.
Franck Charpentier will host you in his one-star Michelin restaurant and entice you with his traditional cuisine, which has hints of the Mediterranean and Asia. Try the turbot, clams, and Asian broth, or perhaps the free-range poultry with seasonal vegetables. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table in advance. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.

An 18th-century estate with beautiful centennial gardens, providing individually decorated rooms.
Enjoy your evening in this centuries-old country house, nestled within its inviting two-hectare wooded park. The hotel will charm you and transport you back in time as you wander through its gardens, which date back to 1740. However, the hotel's luxury is decidedly more contemporary, with its heated outdoor swimming pool and its plush rooms and suites. Look forward to awakening to the song of forest birds in the peaceful setting of your lovingly designed room. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.