Dunkerque

DUNKERQUE
Originally a tiny Flemish fishing village, Dunkerque first came to significance in 800 BC following the construction of the harbour. With it’s advantageous strategic location the town soon became a major European port. But it was in 1662 when the town became officially French and Vauban revamped the port and ramparts that Dunkerque became truly prosperous. Today it is the third largest commercial port in France and enjoys a healthy relationship with yachtsmen and pleasure boaters throughout Europe.

Le Bassin de la Marine has 685 moorings including berths for super yachts and offers a comprehensive range of marine services including sail-lofts, rigging equipment and shipyards. The marina is proud of its many awards received over the years for maintaining the high quality of its environmental policy. Also to Le Bassin’s advantage are the links to Paris and Brussels via an extensive network of canals, making it an ideal place from which to explore both the North Sea coastline and the fascinating interiors of Belgium and France by boat.

The town is vibrant and chock full of intriguing shops, friendly cafes, traditional restaurants, bars and galleries. And with 15 kilometres of beaches and seven hundred hectares of dunes to explore along the Flanders coast, Dunkerque is a truly amazing place to enjoy a seaside holiday. With over a hundred sports clubs in the area you can indulge in virtually any kind of activity you desire. Spectators are equally catered for by the vast programme of international events that take place throughout the year.,br>
Dunkerque is probably best known for its significant place in history as the last place to be liberated during WW2. Today’s Dunkerque is a far cry from those war torn days and prefers to see itself a place of liberation from the hum drum routine of day to day life.