Steep chalk slopes shape the landscape of Sanghen at Mont d’Eclemy. They are dry and well drained; these conditions support chalk grassland, where rare plants and animals such as wild orchids can be found. Hiking also offers a way to explore the area's distinctive heights. The Église Saint-Martin and the spring of the same name add historic architecture and local tradition. For your getaway, you can focus either on the landscape and hiking trails or on the cultural sites.

Chalk slopes and hiking trails in Sanghen

Mont d’Eclemy combines a distinctive landscape feature with a special habitat: dry, well-drained conditions on the steep chalk slopes support chalk grassland. Wild orchids are one example of the rare plants found there; rare animals are also associated with this habitat. Nature enthusiasts will find a specific reason to pay attention not only to the trail but also to the landscape while hiking.

Both the GR de Pays – Tour du Boulonnais and the Ventu d’Alembon hiking trail cross Mont d’Eclemy in Sanghen. The Sentier Saint-Martin offers a different point of reference: this 14-kilometre hike starts at Saint-Martin de Sanghen and reaches Blanc Mont, which is 189 metres high. This route therefore has both a specific distance and a named destination.

The Sentier du Ventu is described in terms of its route and terrain. It crosses Mont de Sanghen and then follows a ridge to Mont de la Taonnerie. A steep descent leads towards Sanghen; the route also heads towards the Monts de Sanghen and d’Éclemy. By comparison, the Sentier Saint-Martin has a specified distance and Blanc Mont as a point of reference, while the Sentier du Ventu is characterised by its ridge route and descent. You can compare the hikes using these specific features. As details of the Sentier du Ventu may change, check the current route before setting out.

Église Saint-Martin and the spring

The Église Saint-Martin is located away from the village centre in a green setting and is surrounded by a cemetery. The present building dates from no earlier than the 15th century. Inside is a richly decorated architectural altarpiece from the 17th century. The building and its furnishings therefore point to two different dates: the building's earliest possible date and the later creation of the altarpiece. The church is a cultural attraction in its own right, alongside the hiking trails and landscape.

The Saint-Martin spring is another historic feature. It includes an artificial grotto from the 19th century, set beneath a canopy of lime trees. A few steps opposite an equestrian statue of Saint Martin lead down to the spring. Local tradition is also part of its history: it tells of a practice in which the feet of young children who had difficulty walking were dipped in the spring's fresh water. This is recorded as a local tradition, not as an indication of any present-day use.

The different themes in Sanghen are easy to distinguish when planning your visit: those interested in chalk slopes, habitats and specific hiking routes will find several named trails and heights to use as reference points. Those wishing to include cultural history can visit the Église Saint-Martin, with its 17th-century altarpiece, and the spring, with its grotto and local tradition. This lets you choose according to your interests without combining the various sites into a set itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Guînes, Le Touquet, Colline-Beaumont, Saint-Martin-Choquel, Aubin-Saint-Vaast, Buire-Au-Bois, Samer, Pernes-lès-Boulogne.

Go to the main travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.