7 - A weekend of outdoor activities in the Baie de Somme

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There is nothing quite like fresh air and the great outdoors when the weather is turning distinctly autumnal but mild temperatures still linger. Perfect for any weekend this autumn, the Baie de Somme is one big playground for lovers of outdoor activities.

Explore the bay at low tide, accompanied by a guide who knows exactly where on the mudflats and salt marches to find the seal colonies, birds and shells. Perfect for families, this trip will have you outside all day long as well as learning about the area's diverse wildlife and intricate ecosystems.

If you don't fancy walking, try sea kayaking instead, riding the biggest waves towards the entrance to the bay. With a little luck, you might even get to kayak alongside seals searching for a meal along the shore. Otherwise, the 70km long bay is just waiting to be discovered on horseback or by bike. As you fly through a wild landscape of dunes, pastures and forests, it's not hard to see why this bay is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

The bolder sportsmen might want to try their hand at yacht racing, easily watched from the vast sandy beaches. Young children however, might prefer to have a go at flying kites along the beach or taking a trip to the bird observatory at Marquenterre which offers some of the most beautiful migratory species in the country.

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