February 2019 – Montreuil Sur Mer

Early in February we enjoyed a wet and windy few days based at Hotel L’Hermitage in Montreuil Sur Mer.  Prior to crossing to France we stayed the night at the Premier Inn on the A20 just outside Dover. Thus, we had an early ferry and got to Montreuil just after lunch. After settling in to our splendid hotel room we made our customary circuit of the ramparts before enjoying a glass of wine or two. The next four days were typically spent walking in the morning, lunch and then a circuit of the ramparts before supper. We enjoyed lunches at L’Ecurie in Hesdin and L’Esplanade at Berck Plage where we had eaten on previous trips. However, we also found two new restaurants; Le Patio in Montreuil itself and Auberge du Cronquelet in the nearby village of St Aubin. Both of these restaurants proved to be excellent with gourmet food beautifully presented,good service and reasonable process. We shall certainly return!

The weather for our walks varied between needing full wet weather gear and just waterproof tops.  Not only did we have to contend with the rain, but the wind was often very gusty and bitingly cold. However, we had the right equipment and thoroughly enjoyed our walks. The views were often limited by the weather and greyness prevailed.

.

.

.

Our walks around the walls of the town were as pleasant as usual.

.

.

.

One area of the town was undergoing major redevelopment but we could not determine whether the charm of the old town will be retained or replaced with modern uninspiring buildings. It would be a shame if the character and history of Montreuil were to be destroyed. That said, there was an outstanding piece of renovation on the spire of the church attached to our hotel – we were truly impressed.

 

Once again we had a really enjoyable break in what is certainly one of our favourite towns.