The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France and Dresden, Saxony

The road trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France to Dresden, Saxony is a journey that takes you through picturesque towns, rolling hills, and stunning architecture. The trip is approximately 1000km long, and the halfway point is the charming town of Bad Sassendorf, NW. From there, travelers can continue on their journey through the beautiful countryside of Germany. Here are some of the best things to do along the way.

Explore the Cliffs and Lighthouses of Étretat

Étretat is a small town located in Normandy, France, on the coast of the English Channel. The town is known for its stunning cliffs and lighthouses. The cliffs offer breathtaking views of the English Channel and are perfect for a picnic or a hike. The lighthouses are also worth exploring as they offer a glimpse into the maritime history of the town.

Interesting Fact: The cliffs of Étretat were popular with impressionist painters such as Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet.

Visit the Gothic Cathedral of Chartres

The Gothic Cathedral of Chartres is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most famous cathedrals in France. It is located in the town of Chartres in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. The cathedral is known for its stunning stained glass windows, which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Visitors can also climb to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views of the town below.

Interesting Fact: The stained glass windows of Chartres Cathedral are considered some of the best-preserved examples of medieval stained glass in the world.

Relax on the Beaches of Normandy

The beaches of Normandy are a popular tourist destination and are known for their stunning views and historical significance. The D-Day landing beaches are located in Normandy, and visitors can explore the museums and memorials dedicated to this historical event. The beaches themselves are also worth visiting, as they offer sun, sea, and sand.

Interesting Fact: The Normandy beaches were the site of the largest amphibious invasion in history.

Wander Through the Saxon Switzerland National Park

The Saxon Switzerland National Park, located in Saxony, Germany, is a nature lover's paradise. The park offers hiking trails through rock formations, gorges, and forests. Visitors can also enjoy rafting, climbing, and cycling in the park. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including lynx, beavers, and red deer.

Interesting Fact: The park is called "Saxon Switzerland" because of its resemblance to the landscape of the Swiss Alps.

Marvel at the Zwinger Palace in Dresden

The Zwinger Palace is a stunning baroque palace located in the heart of Dresden. It was built in the 18th century as a home for Augustus the Strong's collection of art and scientific instruments. The palace is now a museum, and visitors can explore the art collections and wander through the palace gardens. The palace is also home to a stunning porcelain collection.

Interesting Fact: The name "Zwinger" comes from the German word for "enclosed courtyard."

In conclusion, the road trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France to Dresden, Saxony is a journey full of history, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. The trip offers visitors a chance to explore France and Germany and to experience the beauty of the European countryside. The journey takes approximately 10 hours, but with these stops along the way, the trip is worth taking slowly to savour everything the trip has to offer.