Cap Gris-Nez

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Cap Gris-Nez

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Cap Gris-Nez © Philippe Turpin / Age Fotostock

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The spectacular site of the Cap Gris-Nez cliffs is the only place in Europe where the Kimmeridgian shales of the cliff bedrock is topped by Portland sand and lenses of sandstone.
These geological particularities go some way to explaining the variety and originality of the area's plant-life, where grassland turns into marsh, prairies or dunes. The seaweed to be found at the foot of the cliffs is the richest along the region's coastline.
The site is especially noteworthy for its animal life.
Thanks to its position overlooking the sea tens of feet below, Cap Gris-Nez is recognised as an outstanding observation point for birdwatchers. The distinctive elevated position affords fine views of seabirds and migratory birds on the cliffs below.
From August to November, you may be lucky enough to see ospreys, honey buzzards, European shags, Leach's Storm-petrels and Northern fulmars stopping on their migratory routes to nest on the rugged perches offered by the rocky cliffs.
The presence of some migratory birds of prey makes the place all the more impressive, because you may also admire Rough-legged Buzzards, White-tailed Eagles, Richard's Pipits and Lapland Longspurs.