Our June 2024 stop in Calais was a whirlwind of history, quirky adventures, and heartwarming moments that perfectly punctuated our European roadtrip. We only had one night here, a precious pause before our big Chunnel crossing the next day, and every minute was unforgettable.
After checking into our historic hotel, we set off to explore Calais. One of our main stops was the Citadel of Calais—now known as the Stade du Souvenir. We entered through the imposing Neptune’s Gate, which immediately transported us back in time. Strolling through the park-like citadel, surrounded by walls that once served as the battlements of a rebuilt fortress, we marveled at the transformation. After Calais was reclaimed from English rule in 1558, the medieval castle (built in 1229) was completely razed to make way for a new citadel, more suited to the art of war at that time. The first stone was laid in 1564 by visionary engineers Giacomo Castriotto and Jean Errad of Dar-le-Cuc (the same Errad who also designed citadels in Amiens and Doullens, and crafted Neptune’s Gate). By the 1960s, this formidable fortress had been reinvented as a sports stadium and school—a fascinating evolution that perfectly captures Calais’ resilient spirit.
Our explorations took us to the Tour du Guet, a 13th-century watchtower that stands proudly in the heart of town. Dating back to 1214, when Philip I first fortified Calais, this ancient tower has witnessed earthquakes (it was damaged in 1580), served as a lighthouse until 1848, and even played its part as a military post during World War I.
In the middle of a bustling square, the Yvonne and Charles de Gaulle Monument provided a modern tribute to two of France’s most iconic figures. We couldn’t resist snapping a fun photo of our McFluffington pups strutting alongside this impressive symbol of unity and history.
We continued our walk to Fort Risban—a journey that was as scenic as it was steeped in history. Originally mentioned during the mid-1300s siege by Edward III’s forces, the fort has undergone many transformations over the centuries. On our way there, we passed the Statue of Corsaire Tom Souville, a beloved piece of public art commemorating the daring Calaisian privateer who once sailed under the city’s unique flag. Of course, we had to capture a few photos to remember his bold legacy!
Just a few blocks from our hotel, Parc Richelieu became our urban oasis. We visited the park several times with the pups, enjoying leisurely strolls among its serene trails and even pausing to admire a charming little waterfall and respectfully enjoy the War Memorial. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before our next adventure.
On the culinary front, Calais did not disappoint. I found myself on a bit of a Bloody Mary kick and enjoyed a few more of these perfectly crafted cocktails. The French fries were delightfully crispy—though, after several days in Belgium, it was hard for any food to top their standards! And if that wasn’t enough, I even treated myself to a cute sweater/capelet during some boutique shopping—reminders of French style that I simply couldn’t resist.
The morning after our Calais adventure, our Chunnel tickets were waiting, and the excitement was palpable. That morning, GoFetch whisked our McFluffington pups across the border, so we’d be reunited in Southampton that afternoon. I couldn’t help but get a nostalgic flutter thinking about the the Chunnel opening back in 1994—when even kids in southern Kentucky dreamed of such wonders. We drove our rental car onto the train through the undersea passage, sitting comfortably in our car as we ventured 50-plus kilometers beneath the sea. The Channel Tunnel, as you may know, is an engineering marvel connecting Folkestone and Coquelles, and its modern magic never fails to amaze us.
Overlooking the Strait of Dover, Calais is a city of reinvention. Once under British rule from the mid-1300s until the mid-1500s, and having suffered near-total devastation during World War II, this town has emerged resilient. Originally an island in the North Sea, Calais was gradually transformed by pebbles, silt, and new canals into the bustling port we see today—a vital gateway between the UK and France, now home to the Channel Tunnel.
Our one-night stay in Calais was an extraordinary blend of deep history, playful moments, and practical steps toward our next chapter. It reminded us that every journey is made richer by exploring everywhere you have the opportunity, even on an overnight stop.
Until our next adventure, Calais, thank you for your timeless beauty and the memories that will forever echo in our hearts.
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