Colmar-sur-Mer to Hastings Road Trip: Stops, Scenery & Tips

Did you know that the shortest sea crossing between mainland Europe and England is the Strait of Dover, where the white cliffs face the French coast just 33 kilometers away? This road trip from Colmar-sur-Mer to Hastings follows a mix of French D-roads and the A16 motorway, then crosses the English Channel via ferry (Calais to Dover) before continuing on the A259. The entire drive without stops takes about 3.5 hours, but you'll want to allow at least a full day to explore.

This guide answers how long to drive Colmar-sur-Mer to Hastings (around 3.5 hours plus ferry time) and is it worth driving Colmar-sur-Mer to Hastings (absolutely, for the scenic coastlines and historic towns). We also highlight best stops Colmar-sur-Mer to Hastings and things to do between Colmar-sur-Mer and Hastings. For finding hidden gems, check our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Leave Colmar-sur-Mer and immediately encounter the Côte d'Opale with its high chalk cliffs and sandy beaches. The A16 skirts the Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale, where you can spot seabirds and see the Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez headlands. These are prime viewpoints for the English coast on clear days.

• UNESCO Sites: None directly on route, but the Belfries of Belgium and France (Béthune, Arras) are a short detour. The Jurassic Coast in England (East Devon & Dorset) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not on this route but worth extending.
• Local commerce: Boulogne-sur-Mer has a famous fish market (morning). Calais has lace-making shops. In Hastings, visit the net shops and Fishermen's Museum for local heritage.

The route starts on the D940 from Colmar-sur-Mer, connecting to the A16 motorway near Boulogne-sur-Mer. The A16 is a toll-free autoroute in this section, though tolls apply south of Boulogne. From Calais, you take the ferry to Dover (P&O or DFDS). After disembarking, the A20 (M20) leads to the A259 coastal road into Hastings. The entire journey covers ~285 road kilometers plus the ferry crossing.

• Fuel stops: Stations along A16 at Etaples, Montreuil, and before Calais. In UK, fuel is cheaper at supermarkets like Asda or Tesco near Dover.
• Ferry tips: Book in advance for better rates. Check-in 1 hour prior. Pet-friendly cabins available.
• Road quality: A16 excellent; A259 variable (some narrow coastal sections).

The route is generally safe, but watch for sharp bends on the A259 between Folkestone and Hastings. Speed cameras are posted on both sides of the Channel. In France, mandatory breathalyzer kits and reflective vests are required. In the UK, drive on the left (this takes concentration after the ferry).

• Family stops: Nausicaá aquarium in Boulogne-sur-Mer (one of Europe's largest). Parc d'Olhain (theme park) near Béthune. In UK, Port Lympne Safari Park near Hythe.
• Pet-friendly: Most ferry lines allow pets in vehicles or kennels. Many UK beaches restrict dogs in summer; check Hastings Borough Council's website.
• Rest zones: Aire de Wissant (France) with picnic tables. UK: Folkestone Services (M20) or lay-bys near Dungeness.
• Hidden off-route spots: Cap Blanc-Nez viewpoint (free parking). Dungeness beach with its stark shingle landscape and lighthouses (a short detour from A259).