The Opal Coast, with its picturesque beaches, wild coastline and striking marine life, is a microcosm of French life, littered with cheese farms, boulangeries and little fishing villages. Epitomising the country it resides in beautifully, the Opal Coast makes a fantastic school trip destination for French language students, providing a strong vision into the culture of this stunning European country.
A popular alternative to far-flung destinations, the Opal Coast is located in northern France, just across the English Channel, which means students don’t have to travel far to immerse themselves in an interesting, foreign lifestyle.
Our school groups always have a brilliant time in the Opal Coast. Read all about Caterham Prep School’s Opal Coast experience here.
At WST, we provide inspiring and enjoyable educational tours to the Opal Coast for the following subjects:
So much more than an aquarium, Nausicaa Sea Centre is home to an astonishing 36,000 animals, a penguin beach and a submerged tropical forest. Students can wander around the interactive exhibits, get up close and personal to fascinating wildlife and learn all about the ocean. A vibrant epicentre of learning, groups will have the opportunity to explore the world’s five oceans, visit an eye-opening shark aquarium and pet stingrays in the Touch Pool – all the while practising their French language skills.
A trip to the Opal Coast wouldn’t be complete without discovering the process behind one of the country’s most popular dishes. Students can enter the fascinating world of snails at L'Escargotière du Choquel, a French snail farm in St. Martin Choquel. During a visit, school groups will learn how snails are bred and farmed, and will be given the opportunity to try this delicacy for themselves – if they wish!
Visiting a chocolate factory is just as wonderful and mouthwatering as it sounds. Les Chocolats de Beussent is a unique chocolate factory in France, and the home of gifted, passionate chocolatiers. From the rich aromas of cocoa on arrival to the captivating guided tour, students can discover the charming cocoa journey from bean to bar – alongside tasting the delicious confectionery for themselves!
For educational tours to the Opal Coast, we have a great selection of accommodation to choose from, including family run seaside hotels to purpose built accommodation centres. At WST, we can tailor our packages to suit the requirements of each school group, and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable stay.
Within the pretty towns dotted along the Opal Coast, you’ll find a range of wonderfully traditional French restaurants, where students can try the local delicacies. Favourites include garlic snails, frogs’ legs and hearty, satisfying mains. At WST, we can make reservations on your behalf or recommend some of the best places to eat in the area that match your budget.
A stunning seaside resort, Le Touquet is a great destination for students to wind down, relax and enjoy the simple French way of life. Little streets are scattered with souvenir shops and quaint cafes, while the beach is a hotspot for games and pupil bonding. Visiting Le Touquet shows a quieter side to France that students will marvel in.
A slightly different excursion, students can visit this interesting, family run bee museum, highlighting the fascinating life of a bee keeper. A guided tour takes students on a journey into the life of bees, while a hands-on workshop allows students to make their own candles or honey, giving them a souvenir to take home.
The largest fishing port in the country, Boulogne is a bustling fishing town where students can truly absorb the French culture and improve their vocabulary. Alongside exploring all things nautical at the Nausicaa Sea Centre, you can wander around Boulogne’s beautiful old town and discover its stunning historic architecture, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne and Gallo-Roman walls. This makes a great half day or full day trip for students.
At WST, we arrange inspiring, stimulating and memorable school tours to the Opal Coast, tailored to suit your requirements and providing a true taste of the French lifestyle. If you’re interested in enhancing your pupils’ studies with a trip to France, speak to one of our friendly travel advisers who will be happy to assist with every step of your tour.