Major city: Lille

Located near Belgium and easy access to the Channel tunnel to England
Diverse landscape includes coastline, cliffs and gentle rolling hills
Flemish influence
Excellent museums
Regional cuisine often includes locally-brewed beer

Just over the border from Belgium and a hop or a tunnel across the Channel from England lies the Nord/Pas-de-Calais region. This picturesque land consists of contrasting forests, gentle meadows, and rolling hills dotted with windmills. Sandy beaches and imposing cliffs make up the 150-mile stretch of coastline. Visitors can cruise the network of canals and rivers and explore the expansive countryside and nature reserve parks. Many battlefields including Flanders Fields are in the region.

In Nord/Pas-de-Calais history and traditions are a significant part of daily life. There is almost always a fair, fete or festival going on; some dating back to the Middle Ages. The people of this region, eager to share their traditions, are warm and hospitable. The Flemish influence in this region is evident in its architecture, cuisine and the names of its towns.

Golf is the most popular sport followed by horseback riding, mountain biking and water sports.