Colmar-sur-Mer to Tournai Road Trip Guide

Did you know that the N39 from Colmar-sur-Mer to just south of Calais follows a medieval salt route? This road was once traveled by merchants carrying salt from the coast to inland markets. Today, it offers a scenic alternative to the A16 autoroute.

The drive from Colmar-sur-Mer to Tournai covers approximately 160 km (100 miles). Depending on traffic and stops, plan for 2.5 to 3.5 hours. The route passes through the Opal Coast, then crosses into Belgium near the city of Ypres.

This guide covers the best stops, road conditions, and local highlights. Whether you're looking for quick fuel breaks or cultural detours, you'll find everything you need to make this drive memorable.

The Opal Coast features dramatic chalk cliffs and sandy beaches. Between Colmar-sur-Mer and Calais, stop at Cap Blanc-Nez for panoramic views of the English Channel. Further inland, the Marais Audomarois (marshlands) offer boat tours.

• Cap Gris-Nez: best viewpoint on a clear day
• Boulogne-sur-Mer: Nausicaá aquarium, one of Europe's largest
• Ypres: medieval Cloth Hall and Menin Gate memorial

Local commerce includes seafood stalls in Étaples, cheese shops in northern France, and Belgian chocolate shops in Ypres and Tournai. The Ypres market square (Grote Markt) has a lively Saturday market.

Road quality is excellent on major routes. On the N39, watch for speed cameras, especially near villages. For family stops, consider the following:

• Aire de Baie de Canche (A16): playground, picnic areas
• Boulogne-sur-Mer: Nausicaá (underwater tunnel, touch pools)
• Ypres: playgrounds in the city park (Astridpark)

Pet-friendly stops: Most service stations allow leashed dogs. For longer walks, Plage de La Panne in Belgium has a dog beach. Fatigue management: rest areas every 20 km on the A16. Use the 2-hour rule – take a 15-minute break every two hours.

For hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide offers tips on discovering local artisans and scenic detours.

Fuel prices in France hover around €1.80/L for diesel and €1.90/L for gasoline. In Belgium, expect slightly lower prices (€1.70/L diesel). For an efficient round trip, budget approximately €30-40 for fuel depending on your vehicle.

• Main roads: A16 (France) then A22/N39 via Ypres
• Tolls: A16 has tolls (~€5); N39 is free
• Speed limits: 130 km/h on French autoroutes, 120 km/h in Belgium; lower in rain

Toll payment is electronic or cash. Keep a credit card handy. The route has ample service stations, especially near Calais and before the border crossing at Adinkerke.