Vallée de la Somme

A scenic river valley dotted with charming villages, historic battlefields, and wetlands rich in birdlife, offering peaceful countryside exploration. The area provides insight into WWI history while showcasing the natural beauty of rural Picardy.

Things to do

• Somme American Cemetery — Visit this solemn memorial dedicated to American soldiers who fell during the First World War, set within manicured grounds overlooking the valley.
• Amiens Cathedral — Explore one of France's greatest Gothic cathedrals, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the valley's principal city.
• Floating Gardens of Amiens — Paddle through traditional hortus (vegetable garden plots) accessible by narrow boat in the wetlands surrounding Amiens.
• Thiepval Memorial — Stand before the imposing red-brick monument honoring the 72,000 British and South African soldiers with no known grave from the Battle of the Somme.
• Birdwatching at Marquenterre Park — Observe migratory waterfowl and wading birds at this protected wetland sanctuary, particularly rewarding during spring and autumn migrations.
• Péronne Museum — Discover an immersive exploration of the First World War through multimedia exhibits and artifacts housed in a 12th-century castle.
• Canal boat cruise — Navigate the peaceful waterways connecting the valley's villages to experience the landscape from the water's perspective.

Food to try

• Ficelle Picard — A thin crêpe folded with ham, mushrooms, and béchamel sauce then baked, representing classic Picardy comfort food.
• Pâté de Foie de Volaille — Smooth poultry liver pâté from local farmhouses, often spread on crusty bread as an appetizer or light lunch.
• Macarons d'Amiens — Sweet almond-paste candies with a distinctive pink color and soft texture, a signature confection of Amiens since the 18th century.
• Freshwater fish from the Somme — Pike, perch, and carp caught from the river and valley waterways, typically prepared simply grilled or in local cream sauces.
• Soupe à l'Oignon — Hearty onion soup gratinéed with melted cheese, a warming peasant dish reflecting the agricultural traditions of rural Picardy.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for WWI heritage — The valley's identity is deeply tied to the First World War; approach battlefields and memorials with appropriate solemnity and take time to read historical plaques.
• Seasonal timing for nature — Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are optimal for birdwatching and avoiding summer crowds, while winter visits reveal quieter village charm.
• Village pace and closures — Small villages often observe traditional French rhythms with afternoon closures and limited services on Sundays; plan meal times around local restaurant hours.
• Local pride in agricultural tradition — The valley's residents maintain strong connections to farming heritage; visiting farm shops and markets supports local producers and reveals authentic regional character.