Picardy - Luxury

Picardy is a northern region of France bordering the English Channel Abbeville. The area is known as the location of trench warfare during the World War I and is home to a number of historic battlefields, war cemeteries and memorials.

Beauvais and Amiens are both homes to magnificent cathedrals. In fact, the two towns were in competition in the 13th century to build the biggest cathedral. Although Beauvais lost, its cathedral is still amazing, and features the oldest surviving chiming clock in the world, a gilded astrological clock and rose windows. Amiens' cathedral is equally amazing, with elaborate Gothic rose windows and misericord seat carvings created between 1508 and 1518. The cathedral is still the largest church in France. In the summer months, a 45 minute light show is used to recreate the churches original colour scheme.

The Musee de Picardie, built in 1855 through 1867 features a grand staircase lined with monumental frescoes created by Puvis de Chavannes. The museum is also home to huge canvasses, including Gerome's Siecle d'Auguste and Maignon's Mort de Carpeaux. The museum's basement houses artifacts found in Egypt.

Visitors with a taste for fine dining can stop at Amiens' Les Marissons, located in the St Leu section beneath a cathedral. The restaurant serves delicious gourmet foods including eel, duck pate, turbot with apricots, and pigeon with blackcurrants.

Laon is home to a beautiful hilltop site offering panoramic views of the surrounding hillsides. Laon's cathedral features a four tiered nave, and a rare five towers, making it a unique architectural beauty.

Travellers looking to visit Picardy can stay in our luxury vacation properties for a reasonable price. Visitors can enjoy the luxurious rooms and amenities in one of our houses, apartments, chalets or gite. Many properties include jacuzzi tubs and saunas with some including a private barbeque area for intimate dining. Maid service is also available for a small additional fee at many locations.