Tourism: Berck in the Pas-de-Calais, the largest concentration of kites in the world
13 km from Le Touquet-Paris-Plage and 35 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, the world capital of kite-flying cultivates an art of living based on conviviality, folklore, regional epicureanism and attachment. The city located between the Baie de Sommes and the Deux-Caps Gris-Nez and Blanc-Nez is above all known for its beach, 7 km long and 1.5 km wide, the largest in Pas-de-Calais. Berck is also home to many hospitals
Fifteen years ago, only people from the North and Belgians knew Berck, seaside resort on the Opal Coast on the edge of the English Channel. Those who discover it today marvel at its history, its curiosities, its welcome and its entertainment.
The seaside resort of Pas-de-Calais is made up of two districts: the old fishing village to the east, Berck-Ville and Berck-Plage to the west with the beach as well as the dunes and the hospitals. Contrary to what one might think, tourism is not the city’s main employer. With its 3,000 jobs, the five hospitals are in first place.
Since the Middle Ages, the city has been part of history thanks to its fishing port.
In the 19th century, the city shines. Tourists flock as well as patients who come in particular from bone tuberculosis.
Renowned artists like Edouard Manet attributed their suitcases to itgive free rein to their imagination and paint the horizon and the sky with singular reflections.
The kite capital of the world
For more than 35 years, from the end of April to the beginning of May, the Manche beach has been adorned with multiple colors shaped by dozens of kites. Every year they are more than 500,000 followers and curious to make the trip to admire the grandiose and majestic spectacle.
Until May 1, shades will fly and twirl to create a unique and ephemeral painting that everyone will interpret in their own way. Some are small while others are excessive. All live and let themselves be carried by the wind and those who direct it.
The 35th International Kite Meetings are also a competition.
Authie
Berck is located north of Authie bay, also called “the little sister of the Baie de Somme”, is the last in its natural state in Europe. Gray seals and sea calves are visible every day at 50 m at low tide.
Berck is also the cradle and paradise of sand yachting. The city offers initiations, places and stages.