Top 8 Natural Monuments around Saint-Omer
Natural monuments around Saint-Omer feature a diverse landscape, including extensive wetlands, ancient forests, and coastal reserves. The region is characterized by the unique Marais Audomarois, a cultivated marshland with a network of canals. This area is recognized internationally as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar site, supporting rich biodiversity. Nearby, the Forêt domaniale de Rihoult-Clairmarais offers dense woodland environments, while the Platier d'Oye National Nature Reserve provides coastal dunes and wetlands.
Best natural monuments around Saint-Omer
- The most popular natural…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Wooden Posts on the Beach at Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve
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They are there to stabilize the dunes and the coast and to protect them from …
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Romelaëre Nature Reserve Circuit
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Bomb Crater in Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale
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14 centuries of hard work
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13th century: stone sculptor;
1600: moving with the pole (flat bottom/punter)
1700: dredging with a dredging net
1850: drainage …
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Harchelle Lake
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Pihem Ravine
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For novices but possible at low speed
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The Witches' Tree
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A peat bog
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Boardwalk and View of the Dunes – Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve
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Popular around Saint-Omer
Via Francigena in the Pas-de-Calais – GR 145
In the footsteps of History — GR 145, the Via Francigena
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The hiking trail around the V2 bunker is worth a hike. You also get to many other parts of the facility that you don't normally see in the forest.
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Many coastal poles were planted in the beach. They give the beach a beautiful stamp. They are there to stabilize the dunes and the coast and to protect them from erosion. The poles help to maintain the dune structure and prevent them from being washed away by the wind and the water. They play an important role in the preservation of the natural environment and the protection of the coastal areas.
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The ascending boardwalk is quite a work of art.
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It is far from imagining that here, in the 18th century and until the first half of the 20th century, human activity, linked to peat extraction, was in full swing. And yet these bodies of water bear witness to this exploitation in the past. The arrival of coal put an end to this activity and nature has now reclaimed its rights. Without human intervention, these plains would naturally fill up and make way for a reed bed and then for a peat basin.
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Nice, here you can compare the photo with the current situation. 13th century: stone sculptor; 1600: moving with the pole (flat bottom/punter) 1700: dredging with a dredging net 1850: drainage mill 1900: fishing with bundle of branches 1920: harrowing and rolling
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Art in many facets. Beautiful tree.
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The Réservé Naturelle Nationale des Étangs du Romelaëre is a beautiful nature reserve located in Clairmarais, Saint-Omer and Nieurlet. This reserve, which covers approximately 108 hectares, is a remnant of an old peat cutting from the 19th century. The area consists of ponds, canals, bridges and chain pits, and offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore in the Saint-Omer region?
The Saint-Omer region is renowned for its diverse natural features, including the unique Marais Audomarois, an extensive cultivated marshland with over 700 km of canals. You can also find ancient forests like the Forêt domaniale de Rihoult-Clairmarais, and coastal dune systems at the Platier d'Oye National Nature Reserve.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Saint-Omer?
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. The Saint-Omer Public Garden offers a pleasant green space. Additionally, the Wooden Posts on the Beach at Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve provides an interesting coastal walk, and 14 centuries of hard work is another family-friendly natural monument.
Where can I observe wildlife, especially birds, near Saint-Omer?
The Romelaëre Nature Reserve Circuit, located within the larger Marais Audomarois, is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It's home to approximately 200-230 bird species, including migratory birds and a large cormorant colony. The Platier d'Oye National Nature Reserve is also a crucial stopover for many migratory birds.
What kind of walking trails are available at the Romelaëre Ponds National Nature Reserve?
The Romelaëre Ponds National Nature Reserve offers well-maintained walking trails, including a 2 km route that is accessible for people with reduced mobility. These trails are dotted with observatories, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. You can find more details on the tourisme-saintomer.com website.
Are there any historical natural monuments in the region?
Yes, the region has natural monuments with historical significance. The Bomb Crater in Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale is a relic from the Second World War, offering a unique blend of nature and history within the forest.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The Saint-Omer area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Tour of the Audomarois', by checking the Running Trails around Saint-Omer guide. For hiking, explore options like 'Le marais audomaroiss — loop from Clairmarais' in the Easy hikes around Saint-Omer guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can discover routes like 'Pidou Mill – Saint-Omer Valley loop from Pihem' in the MTB Trails around Saint-Omer guide.
Where can I find a lake within a natural monument for a peaceful walk?
The Harchelle Lake, nestled within the Forêt domaniale de Rihoult-Clairmarais, is a magnificent spot for starting a walk around the lake or a longer hike through the forest, offering tranquility and beautiful views.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Saint-Omer?
The natural monuments around Saint-Omer, particularly the wetlands and forests, are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer offers pleasant conditions for boat trips in the Marais Audomarois, while winter can provide a serene, mystical atmosphere, especially in the marshes.
Are there any unique geological features or natural curiosities to see?
Yes, you can explore the Pihem Ravine, which offers an interesting geological formation. Additionally, a peat bog is another unique natural feature found in the area, showcasing a distinct wetland ecosystem.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve?
Visitors particularly enjoy the Boardwalk and View of the Dunes – Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve. The ascending boardwalk itself is considered a work of art, leading to a beautiful viewpoint of the nature reserve and a wide, sandy beach, especially impressive at low tide.
Can I find any unusual or folklore-related natural sites?
Yes, the region holds some intriguing spots. You might be interested in visiting The Witches' Tree, a natural monument with a unique character that sparks curiosity and local tales.
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