Enjoying the sunny days in Lille, on the Quai du Wault

Built in the Middle Ages for the daily transit of goods, the Quai du Wault is now synonymous with strolling and relaxation. Fed by the River Deûle, the small freshwater port, also known as the Quai de la Haute-Deûle, made up, along with the Quai de la Basse-Deûle, the city of Lille's port facilities.

Now the only port area left above ground in the city, the Quai du Wault is a great place for the people of Lille to relax. It's the perfect place to take a stroll towards the Citadelle or the centre and Grand'Place, and is a popular spot for families and friends alike. From late afternoon onwards, couples and groups of friends settle down by the water's edge, with a few glasses to drink and treats to nibble on.

If you're passing through Lille in the middle of summer, make yourself at home like any good Lilleer and enjoy an early evening watching the sun set, reflecting off the fresh water. With dozens of bakeries, grocery shops and restaurants in Vieux Lille, it's impossible not to indulge in some sweet and savoury delights, with your feet (almost) in the water!

The Foch and Dutilleul squares, which extend from the pool towards Rue Nationale, provide a green oasis in the district. Whether you're looking for a short break on the shady benches or a family stroll, the pleasures of this green lung make it one of the most popular neighbourhoods in the capital of Flanders.

Between the two squares, a statue of Marshal Foch on horseback stands atop an impressive pedestal. At the edge of the rue Nationale, the famous sculpture of P'tit Quinquin marks the end of this rejuvenating interlude, where heritage and escape mingle.

A privileged setting, undeniable charm and intoxicating luxury are all on offer at the Couvent des Minimes. This pleasant 4-star hotel is housed in a 17th-century building, preserving the essence of the place, from the red bricks to the majestic vaults typical of Flemish architecture of the period.

Comfort and elegance are the watchwords when it comes to decorating the rooms and suites of this prestigious establishment on the Quai du Wault. In the centre of the historic convent, a sumptuous glass roof overlooks a luxurious lounge and a luminous terrace. An idyllic setting for an overnight stay during your escape from Lille!

If you want to enjoy the French tradition and refinement of the Couvent des Minimes on the Quai du Wault, head for the patio, next to the charming brick vaults. The à la carte menu includes foie gras, turbot fillet, beef tartare and profiteroles to delight even the most discriminating palate.

• Address: 17 Quai du Wault, 59800 Lille
• Opening times: 06:30am - 10:00am / noon - 2:00pm / 7:00pm - 10:00pm except Monday lunchtimes and evenings and Sunday evenings

To enjoy an exceptional setting over a drink or a snack, the Echiquier bar offers a wide selection of cocktails, beers, soft drinks and aperitifs. On the snack side, mixed boards, club sandwiches, burgers and croque monsieur are sure to satisfy both small and large appetites!

• Opening times: 10am - 11pm Sunday to Thursday, 10am - 1am Friday to Saturday

If you're looking for a more comfortable place to have a drink than a picnic, head for the bar-restaurant Au Quai du Wault, with its pleasant sunny terrace. At the water's edge, wine has pride of place! Enjoy a glass of Chablis, Provence rosé, Médoc and even Saint-Emilion, in a privileged area of Old Lille. If you want to continue the evening, you'll be served carbonnade flamande, welsh, marrow bones, lamb mice, entrecôte steak, etc., with the northern warmth that we owe to the people of Lille!

• Address: 20 Quai du Wault, 59800 Lille
• Opening times: 10am - 2pm / 6pm - 10.30pm Wednesday to Saturday, 11am - 2.30pm Sunday to Tuesday