Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho
Join airplane pilot and accidental adventurer Fernando Pinho on a journey to discover YOUR next travel destination. Part toolkit, part love letter to travel, this podcast is a deep dive into exciting destinations and cultural experiences with curated guides, immersive episodes, and live Q&A sessions. So grab your passport and headphones – your next flight to adventure is boarding now!
Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho
Your Ultimate Guide to Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Once a playground for the British elite, Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is now brimming with new energy. Join your host, Fernando Pinho, as he guides you through this enchanting French destination's captivating history and modern allure.
From the moment we touch down at Le Touquet’s airport, get ready to uncover what to explore, whether you have a couple of hours or a few days to spare:
- Rich local culture & history: Explore the town's evolution from an elite retreat to a vibrant destination for all.
- Scenic beauty: Wander through lush pine forests, natural parks, and breathtaking beaches.
- Legendary landmarks: Visit the iconic hotel linked to Ian Fleming and the birth of James Bond.
- Honest accommodation reviews: From the opulent Le Westminster Hotel to the budget-friendly Ibis and the unique Novotel Thalassa, we'll help you find the perfect stay.
- Thrilling activities: Experience beach sports like sand yachting, play a round of golf, horse riding or explore the vibrant market.
- Delicious dining: Indulge in local cuisine, from charming bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Family fun: Wrap up your adventure with a visit to a thrilling theme park just outside town.
Whether you're seeking history, adventure, relaxation, or a taste of the good life, Le Touquet has something for everyone. Tune in to this episode for a three-day journey through this captivating coastal town.
For photos, videos, and a list of places to sleep, eat, and play, visit this episode's website.
If you wish to see photos of this trip and a list of suggestions of places to eat, visit and sleep, you can subscribe to my newsletter for free at www.travelplanspodcast.com
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Join pilot and accidental adventurer Fernando Pinho as he takes you on journeys to discover exciting destinations across the UK and Europe. You'll fly with him to hidden gems and experience local culture, from bustling streets to serene hideaways, and the best places to eat, sleep and play. Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho is your ticket to exploring the world and its history with a friend who navigates both the skies and the vibrant streets below. In this episode, we're travelling to France for a weekend of beach sports, music and roller coasters. This episode is your ultimate guide to Le Touquet Paris Plage.
Fernando:Bonjour and welcome back to Travel Plans with me, fernando Pinho. Today we are flying to the most British of the French resorts, le Touquet Paris Plage. This seaside resort in the north of France, just one hour away from Calais, was built with the help of the British at the beginning of the 20th century. But what the British helped to build, they also destroyed half a century later, all to allow for D-Day to be successful. Today, le Touquet is more vibrant than ever and keeps very strong ties with Britain, with thousands of British visiting each year.
Fernando:Last year, my family and I spent our summer holidays there and we loved it so much that we are going back in a few weeks. In this episode we are exploring the best of Le Touquet where to go, what to eat and where to stay. I'll show you why a weekend getaway or a summer holiday there is a fantastic idea. We will be taking off in the next few minutes and I'll talk to you again before we reach our destination, but for now, sit back, relax and check our newsletter, which has plenty of photos and videos from this trip and a list of suggestions of places to eat, visit and sleep. The link is on the episode notes N262DB, at Charlie and ready for departure.
Air Traffic Controler :N262D 06H 070, 3 knots. Take off at your discretion.
Fernando:Taking off 06 hard N62DB Welcome back. We are now cruising over the English Channel and our descent to Le Coquet will begin shortly. But before we land, let me share the captivating story of this seaside haven.
In-flight entertainment :And now your in-flight entertainment. In the late 19th century, a Parisian lawyer envisioned a luxurious retreat to rival Deauville, attracting the Parisian elite to this very spot. That's why he called it Paris Plage, paris' beach. Then, in 1902, an English businessman, sir John Whitley, bought the entire town. His ambition was to transform Le Touquet into a playground for the English elite. He spared no expense, constructing luxury hotels, a racecourse, a golf course, a nautical centre, an airport and even casinos, which were illegal in England at the time. And his gamble paid off. The resort, nicknamed London by the sea, became a regular destination for the British upper class, including members of the royal family, winston Churchill and artists and writers like Noel Coward and Ian Fleming. There was even an hour-long flight between Croydon Airport in South London and Le Touquet.
In-flight entertainment :But then the Second World War cast a devastating shadow over the town. In a strategic maneuver in 1944, the British, aiming to mislead German forces about the D-Day landing site site, targeted Le Touquet. Over four days they dropped 2,000 bombs, obliterating the town they had helped build and that had once been a playground for the wealthy. But Le Touquet is resilient. The town was rebuilt and today it maintains strong ties with Britain. That's why, although we will be landing in France. The airport was recently renamed International Airport Le Duque Elizabeth II. And now back to your pilot, Fernando.
Fernando:We are now preparing for landing. From here I can see Lutuki's vast beach. It's beautiful down there. I'm very excited to share with you all about this charming town with a remarkable history 500.
Air Traffic Controler :The weather. Delta Bravo runway 13. Cleared to land. Wind 100 degrees, 6 knots. Cleared to land runway 13 cleared to land.
Fernando:Wind 100°, 6 knots. Cleared to land. Runway 13,. Runway 12 as well. Runway 12, bravo ground. Good day, sir. Taxi to apron. You can follow the aircraft on the apron to park next to him, on the way from Tobacco next to the Twin. And here we are.
Fernando:As far as general aviation goes, Le Touquet Airport is some of the best you can find. Customs, a great gift shop, rent a car, plenty of bicycles to hire, public transport, hotels nearby and only two miles away from the beach. The team here is fantastic and always ready to help with information and bookings. Oh, and, if you see a dog wandering in the terminal, he's the official mascot and very friendly. Today I brought my folding bike with me, so I'm ready to go. As soon as you leave the airport, you'll find yourself surrounded by pine trees. In fact, two-thirds of Little Cay is a pine tree forest. It all started when, in 1837, Alphonze Doulos, the lawyer that I mentioned earlier, bought 1600 hectares of dunes. So, to stabilise them, he decided to plant a forest, and today the forest is dotted with picturesque villas and bordered by cycle lanes. Le Touquet clearly loves its cyclists. They've packed a whopping 28 kilometers of bike lanes and after just a few minutes, you'll find one of the Le touquet's architectural gems the, Le Westminster Hotel. Now, while I'm not lucky enough to stay here this time, this grand hotel isn't just one of the most beautiful buildings in town. It's a survivor standing tall since 1924, even through the second world war. It is said that the timeless elegance inspired Ian Fleming's James Bond novels and years later, the actor Sean Connery himself signed his iconic 007 contract right here. Just past the Westminster Hotel, we step into the heart of Le Touquet's historic center. It's a charming mix of Belle Epoque, art Deco and seaside resort casual.
Fernando:If you only have a few hours in town, this is the area you want to be, and I'll show you the most interesting landmarks to visit. Hold on tight. We are about to embark on a whirlwind tour of Le Touquet's highlights. I'll be your guide and chauffeur, zipping us between landmarks on my trusty bicycle. To keep this segment short, we'll be going at speed, but don't worry, you won't miss a thing. Now make sure to check our episodes newsletter for stunning visuals of everything we are about to see. And if you are ever in Le Touquet, be sure to explore these landmarks at your own pace, with time for lunch. This walk will take you around 2 to 3 hours. Right, and are we ready? Let's start.
Fernando:The tennis club inaugurated in 1903, it is massive 26 courts, one swimming pool and three football pitches. The conference centre back in 1913 it was opened as a casino. Today it is a venue for all sorts of events, including music and theatre. The Hermitage Hotel, built in 1910, was once the most popular in Le Touquet. Great architecture, but please don't go inside, as you will be arrested. The hotel was converted into a collection of private residences. The lighthouse is a listed monument. There were two before the Second World War, but they got blown up, so in 1951 a new lighthouse was built. If you can cope with the 274 steps all the way up to the top, you'll be rewarded with a stunning 360 degree view of the little cave.
Fernando:The shops at Avenue du Verger, built in 1927 in Art Deco style. Back in the day they used to host the most famous luxury brands. Today we will find popular cafes and restaurants. Le Village Suisse is a group of houses designed in an odd mix of medieval and Swiss chalet styles Used to mark the entrance of Le Touquet. Ypres Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in town. It was named after a period of time where Le Touquet welcomed thousands of Belgian refugees during the First World War. St Jean d'Arc Church, built in 1911, has a beautiful collection of stained glass depicting the story of Joan of Arc. The Town Hall is a listed building and is impressive in size and architectural combo, well worth the visit.
Fernando:The market is another listed building, known by its shape and arches. Different days offer different produce. Today it's fish. It stinks. And here's the post office, a fine art deco listed building, and hopefully your letters won't be tempted by a vacation here. Can I have table four one, please, and my bicycle! Le Perard is the best fish and seafood restaurant in town, offering produce caught by the local fishermen. If you don't like fish, there's a popular English pub across the road, the Globetrotter.
Fernando:We are getting to the beach now, where you'll find the beach cabins built in 1960. Colorful and full of character, just like the locals. Au Chat Bleu , the blue cat, opened in 1912 by two sisters who loved cats and chocolate. Today it's one of the most famous chocolate shops in France. Bonjour, can I have a box of five? Please? Actually, make it 50. Thank you. And we are done. I hope you enjoyed this quick tour of the Le Touquet Historic Centre. If you only have a few hours, this walk will give you a great taste of the town, but if you have a day or two, then you are in for a treat.
Fernando:Le Touquet isn't just about charming streets and historic landmarks. The natural beauty surrounding this town is something else. In fact, we captured some of it on video during our flight in today. Check out the episode's newsletter for a sneak peek. If Le Touquet could be summed up in a single feature, it would have to be its magnificent beach. This vast natural gem offers 11 kilometres of fine sand stretching as far as your eyes can see. Now imagine strolling along this expansive shoreline, feeling the soft sands between your toes, the gentle breeze on your face and the soothing sound of the waves lapping at the shore. Now, the beach isn't just a feast for your senses. It's also a playground for the adventurers. Whether you are into swimming, sunbathing, kitesurfing or simply building sandcastles with the kids, there's something for everyone here. But hey, Le Touquet is not just about this incredible beach.
Fernando:Let's head up north, to the very tip of town, to the Canche Bay Nature Park. This place is huge 45 hectares of protected land around the Canche Bay. I'm cycling along natural trails, and I can feel the sea breeze in my face, but also the scent of the nearby forests. You might see some locals jogging or just taking a leisurely stroll. There's even a fitness trail with equipment along the way. And please mind the horses there are plenty of them too. The real star of the show here, though, is the view. Head to the water sports center or one of the observation points, and you'll be blown away. If you look out over the bay, you might even spot some seals chilling out on the sandbanks. And keep your eyes peeled for the birds Thousands of them migrate here. It is a pretty special place to just soak up nature, and the home of one of the best restaurants in town, la Baze Nord, located by the Water Sports Centre. Hello, I have a booking for 7, just one.
Waiter:OK.
Fernando:This is a great restaurant with a beautiful view over the bay, and I confess this is my favorite restaurant in Le Touquet. I don't know about you, but I am exhausted and ready to call it a day. Speaking of which, let's talk about where to rest your head after a long day in Le Touquet. There are many hotels in town and over the years I've tried my fair share, so today I'm giving you my honest opinion on a few of them. Remember that fancy the Westminster Hotel we passed earlier. If you are not too fussed about the sea view and have a little cash to splash, it's a great option. Think massive rooms and a luxurious experience. They even have a free kids club so you can actually get some me time. Just heads up. Their cancellation policy is a bit strict, so double check that before you book. On the other end of the spectrum, there's the Ibis Hotel right by the airport. It's a budget option, but surprisingly good. The rooms are decent sized and they have a lovely outdoor bar serving cocktails, pizzas and salads. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours before you arrive. The only downsize is it's a couple of miles from the center. Nevertheless, this is where I'm staying tonight. But my absolute favorite and the popular choice for families is right on the seafront. That said, over there, I have to show you the place.
Fernando:And here we are, at the southern end of Le Touquet, with the dunes stretching out behind us. But wait, where is the hotel? All I see is this massive bunker-like building sitting right on the sand. But look again, and that is it. That's the Novotel Thalassa Le Touquet. It might not look like your typical seaside hotel, but, trust me, this place is special. Its unique design blends into the dunes, giving it an almost otherworldly feel.
Fernando:And the location? Well, it doesn't get much better than this. You are literally steps away from the beach, with uninterrupted views of the ocean. But real magic happens once you step inside. The rooms are designed to maximize those incredible views, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let the natural light flood in. It's like waking up to a postcard every morning. Flood in, it's like waking up to a postcard every morning. And that's not all. The hotel offers a beautiful indoor saltwater pool, perfect for a relaxing swim, no matter what the weather is like outside. There's also a spa where you can pamper yourself with a massage or treatment. The whole building is just airy and bright. It's like they've somehow managed to bottle up the sunshine and the sea scent and infuse it into every corner. Right time to bed. Tomorrow we have a packed day.
Joy:Still to come golf, horses sand yachting and roller coasters.
Fernando:Good morning. It's our second day in Le Touquet and I already feel the excitement building. Yesterday was quite a good day, but today promises to be even better. One of the most iconic sights on Le Touquet's beach are the sand yachts. They look like little sailboats, but instead of water they glide across the sand on wheels, and these things can fly. Not literally, but they can reach speeds of over 90 kilometres per hour. Everyone who's tried sand yachting raves about the adrenaline rush. They say that once you try it you are hooked. So I couldn't resist. I went to the water sports centre by the beach and booked a beginner session. Bonjour, monsieur, I've booked a discovery session, 10.45 today.
Watersports centre tutor:Yeah, we might have to cancel because the wind is very slow. Oh, there's no wind.
Fernando:Okay, oh gosh, that's a shame.
Watersports centre tutor:We're gonna keep the kids. We have kids for they're coming every day for a full week.
Fernando:Yes, like a club, yes.
Watersports centre tutor:And we're keeping them because they're lighter.
Fernando:Okay.
Watersports centre tutor:The main issue with sand yatching is the wind. We are dependent on the wind.
Fernando:Yeah, I see it all the time and I get quite like, oh, that looks so exciting.
Watersports centre tutor:It's very easy to learn. It's one of the only sailing sport that is easy to learn. You learn windsurf, you learn sailing and then it takes a lot of time you get on windsurf.
Fernando:That's unexpected. The wind is not strong enough for the sails to work with adults, but the children's session is still going ahead, so I'm going to tag along and see what it's all about, and off you go. The tractor that we just heard is used to pull a convoy of sand yachts. I can see a line of around 20 of them yacht by literally turning it on the side and attaching a sail to the mast. Every sail has a different flag on it, and I can see the United Kingdom flag, canada, italy. It's a shame I can't try it today, but one day I will be able to go. Now, how do they practice high-speed sport on the beach while sharing the space with other users? So the way they do it is by limiting the area with traffic cones. The yatchs are ready. Briefing complete. The children are ready to go. I'm not sure the wind agrees, though.
Watersports centre tutor:It is not possible because of the wind. The sand is soft
Fernando:Sadly, the wind is so weak that the children can even make their yachts move on the sand. So to give the children the opportunity to learn how to control their yachts, the way they work around the lack of wind is by attaching every single yacht to each other like a train, and the train is being pulled by this tractor. They are going to drive one kilometre down the beach and come back. It's not the same as sail with wind, but at least they get to practice how to maneuver the yacht. Although I didn't get to try sand yachting today, I can see why the sport is so popular. You get to spend the day on the beach while practicing a sport that can be both relaxing or full of adrenaline. Regardless of the wind, this is the most popular beach sport in the Le Touquet, and I will come back on a windy day. I have now left the beach and I am back to my bicycle. Now it's time to explore another side of Le Touquet's sporting scene. We are heading to the renowned Equestrian Park. Considered one of the best sites devoted to equestrian sports in France, this place is great for horse lovers. The first thing you will notice is how welcoming and accessible it is. The facilities are open to the public, so you can easily spend the whole day here soaking up the atmosphere. The centre offers a fantastic range of amenities, including indoor and outdoor arenas, stables, competition arenas, a race course and even an hotel. If you are with little ones, they will adore the pony rides, and for experienced riders, there are daily group rides to the beach and surrounding natural parks. There are over 45 km of horse riding passes available. The park also hosts some major events, like the annual international show jumping competition. It's a highlight of the spring season, drawing top riders and 500 horses from 20 nations worldwide. The equestrian park is a testament to the Touquet's love for the outdoors and its dedication to providing top-notch facilities, and that passion extends to the greens as well.
Fernando:Let's head to the golf courses. As soon as you see Le Touquet's town emblem, you will know that golf is a big deal here. They chose a caddy as their symbol. This golf resort isn't just one of the most beautiful in Europe, it has been ranked as the 20th best golf resort on the continent. The whole complex has stood here for over 115 years, a testament to its success.
Fernando:Could I have a double expresso please? Yes, thank you. Now, I'm no golf expert. I will leave that to my mother-in-law, but even I can see. This place is stunning. The holes are beautifully framed by trees and dunes, creating a picturesque backdrop for every swing. There are three courses to choose from an 18-hole course that winds its way through the pine forest, a 9-hole course, perfect for those short on time, and a practice course to improve your skills. On site, we will find a welcoming clubhouse with a restaurant open to the public and a hotel for those wanting to immerse themselves in the golfing experience. After a day of outdoor activities and sporting adventures, it's time to experience a different side of Lutuque. Lutuque gets a whole different vibe once the sun goes down. Nightclubs and casinos light up the town. Oh, I think I wrote a poem, but we are heading somewhere a little more mellow. Tonight there's a jazz concert happening at the conference center, and that sounds like the perfect way to end our day, day.
Fernando:Well, that was simply fantastic. What a perfect way to wrap up our second day in Le Touquet. If you are a music lover like me, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of festivals throughout the year. The big one, the one that everyone talks about, is the Le Touquet Beach Musical Festival in August. Thousands of people can hear from all corners of France to soak up the sun, the sands and the sounds. But for now, I think it's time to say good night to Le Touquet, and while it's bittersweet to be leaving so soon, there's still so much fun to squeeze in before we head to the airport.
Fernando:If you are traveling with little ones, you might enjoy leisurely walk by the beach and a ride on the charming wooden carousel. But if you are craving a bit more excitement, or if your kids let's be honest, maybe yourself are looking for a thrill, I have just the thing. Just five miles outside of Le Touquet there is a theme park called Parc Bagatelle. Don't worry about transportation. If you don't have a car. There's a convenient bus service or you can always get a taxi. For less than 30 euros per person or 100 euros for the whole family, you can enjoy unlimited rides and attractions all day long. We are talking over 50 attractions and shows, including thrilling roller coasters, refreshing water slides and even a charming farm where you can meet some friendly animals. Now don't get me wrong. The carousel is lovely, but Parc Bagatelle is a whole other level of fun, and for the price it's an absolute steal. You will create memories that will last long after your tan lines fade, so if you are looking for one last hurrah before heading home, consider checking out Park Bagatelle. It's a fantastic way to end your little kid adventure on a high note.
Fernando:I am back in town for a last walk by the sea and some shopping. With more than 300 stores in the town centre, Le Touquet offers many shopping opportunities, but for me, the best experience is actually at the local market on Thursdays and Saturdays. If you visit during the summer, the market is also open on Mondays. Hundreds of vendors set up their stalls in the streets selling pretty much everything you can imagine Well, almost everything. Now remember that visitors from outside the EU can save up to 20% by claiming back the VAT on the purchases. Remember, too, that you have to spend at least 100 euros. And no, the discount doesn't apply to a potential summer house in Le Touquet. That's sad.
Fernando:During my stay in Le Touquet, I made it a point to ask locals about their favourite restaurants and cafés, and a few names kept coming up Le Paris-Plage, known for its cosy atmosphere, or La Petite Charlotte, a charming bistro, the Tavern Royal, a lively spot, and Jean's Café, a casual favourite of the locals. For those seeking a truly exceptional dining experience, the Pavillon at the Westminster Hotel holds a Michelin star, and I can't forget my personal favorite, La Base Nord. Their view and atmosphere are phenomenal. Hello, can I pay my bill please? It's uh, I arrived on sunday, sunday, right. Thank you very much. Nice to meet you November 26, 2.5, with PAPL1 and ready for departure.
Air Traffic Controler :N262DB cleared to take off runway 13 with 060 with 12 knots and report leaving zone N262.B cleared to take off runway 13.
