Salperwick connects the Marais audomarois with opportunities to explore the marshland by water or on foot. There is a public landing stage for boating in the Marais; the “le Marais d’Ecou” walking trail also runs along the Lansberg. The protected Marais audomarois area includes Salperwick and is open to the public. Boat trips may be seasonal. Check local conditions at the landing stage before setting off.

Marshland, waterways and wildlife

The Marais audomarois covers almost 3,500 hectares and has a network of 700 kilometres of canals and ditches. It is France’s last marshland used for vegetable growing and is fed by groundwater that resurfaces. The marshland around Salperwick contains numerous islands with second homes. These islands are part of the local landscape, but this does not imply any particular route or access to individual properties.

Nature is another highlight: the marshland has rich biodiversity, including grey herons and kingfishers. These two species give an idea of the wildlife found here, although individual sightings cannot be guaranteed. If you are particularly interested in birds and the landscape, you can factor this into your plans alongside boat trips and walks.

Exploring by boat

Salperwick has a public landing stage for boating in the Marais audomarois. Au Bon Accueil is a starting point for boat trips in the heart of the marshland. It offers guided excursions on sightseeing boats, as well as independent trips in rowboats or canoes. These are different ways to experience the waterways: with commentary on board or independently in a smaller boat.

Au Coin Rêvé provides boats and canoes for leisure trips on the calm waters of the Marais audomarois. These boat services may also be seasonal. For a break in the marshland, there are picnic areas along the Grand Large that can be reached by boat. Check local access arrangements for these areas before your visit.

Walking and regional cuisine

The “le Marais d’Ecou” walking trail is 9.75 kilometres long, runs along the Lansberg and takes 2 hours and 50 minutes. Along the way, you can see typical houses and get a glimpse of life in the marshland. The route offers a concrete alternative to outings on the water if you would like to explore the landscape on foot. As conditions on the route may change, it is advisable to check locally before setting off.

The Estaminet Au Bon Accueil is located by the water. It serves fresh regional dishes, most of them homemade, including Potjevleesch and Carbonnade. These specialities offer a taste of the region; as the menu may change, check it before your visit. The restaurant and the Au Bon Accueil boat departure point are the same place, so you can consider both as possible stops when planning your trip.

Château and church

The Château de Salperwick, also known as Château de Saubruit, is listed as a historic monument. The protected site includes all the château buildings, including their interiors, as well as the park. In the Middle Ages, the château was a country residence of the monks of Saint-Bertin. The interiors feature wood panelling and stucco work, considered a fairly unusual example for the region.

Another historical detail can be found in the church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Bonne-Fin: it houses the polychrome wooden statue “Vierge à l’Enfant dite Notre-Dame de la Bonne Fin” from the 19th century. The château and church add a cultural touch to a stay in the marshland; these features can be appreciated regardless of whether you focus your trip on nature, water or history.

Discover more destinations: Aubrometz, Vieil-Hesdin, Violaines, Campagne-Lès-Hesdin, Houlle, Wierre-Effroy, Écurie, Roquetoire

For the wider travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.