The Picardy region includes the Baie de Somme and much of the river's plains, including the atmospheric, memorial dotted fields of French Flanders. Picardy also offers beautiful rural views, rich cuisine and plenty to pique the interest of travellers interested in history. There is a good range of accommodation mainly in the countryside or on the coast. We've picked out something for everyone from chic little B&Bs to five star properties with Michelin starred restaurants, and charming boltholes that are perfect for a quick escape from Paris. And many of the best places to stay in Picardy are in converted chateaux which have that quintessential French feel.

Where to stay - which town/area?

• Amiens is Picardy's capital, much famed, unfortunately, for its own role in both World Wars. Amiens was almost entirely rebuilt after WWII, but many of its visitors come because of its position within the First World War; Amiens occupied some of the most contested lands in all of history, the Western Front. However modern Amiens is a lively place, with plenty of interesting cultural attractions, and pretty vistas.
• Outside of the towns and cities, on Flanders fields, you'll find the beautiful, stark memorials to those lost on both sides, and from the numerous different armed forces fighting for the Allies. Some of the most poignant places to visit are the tunnels at La Boisselle, which were dug by soldiers in preparation for the battle of the Somme, and the crater-pocked battlefield and preserved trenches at Vimy Ridge.
• Remembering the fallen isn't the only reason to visit Picardy. The Baie de Somme is a beautiful place (stay in St Valery sur Somme), known for its wonderful artist-inspiring light - both Degas and Seurat painted its moods extensively. The mouth of the Somme is also home to seals, and the estuaries along Picardy's small stretch of coast are well known by birdwatchers.
• If you're travelling with kids you might be interested to hear that Picardy is also home to Parc Asterix. If you want to be based near the themepark, you should opt for a hotel around Chantilly or the Val d'Oise.

The region is also very accessible from Calais and Boulogne, so the best places to stay in Picardy can make great stopping off points on the way either to or from a ferry.

The best places to stay in Picardy

For a Romantic Break

• Le Macassar, just outside Amiens, is a luxurious, Art Deco style B&B surrounded by romantic gardens. The two rooms and four suites are decorated in bright colours, and some have murals. And there are four public spaces, a Moroccan style den, the Majorelle room - named for the turn-of-the-century cabinet maker of the same name, the library and the gallery, which are both Art Deco wonderlands.
• Domaine de Barive is a beautiful château surrounded by 1000 acres of parkland and landscaped gardens. Boutique rooms and suites mix modern design with traditional materials and colours. There's a very good, very French restaurant and an excellent spa. A good location 45 minutes from Reims makes it a good base for Champagne tasting too!
• Chateau de Noyelles is a charming stay with chic, elegant rooms decorated with antiques and grand mirrors, in the heart of the Somme Bay area. Tuck into magnificent seafood dishes in the dining room - a splendid grown-up getaway spot.

For Relaxing

• The Auberge du Jeu de paume is a sophisticated five-star château, in Chantilly, with a Michelin star restaurant. The decor is traditional and elegant - probably close to 'sumptuous' without being extravagant. Expect antiques, Toile du Jouy fabrics, marble floors and a racecourse and polo field next door.
• Les Corderies is a beautiful modern spa hotel right on the coast in St Valery sur Somme. As well as the stunning views, this casually luxurious hotel has a top of the range spa and a fabulous restaurant serving traditional cuisine with clever twists.
• Set in a 300-year old farmhouse, Auberge Le Fiacre is a peaceful hotel with light rooms, lovely gardens, a heated pool, and splendid cuisine. Situated in a coastal spot just outside Fort Mahon Plage.
• Auberge A La Bonne Idee is a charming maison d'hotes with country-chic accommodation, a large garden, and a terrific menu. A lovely rural retreat in the heart of the Foret de Compiegne.
• Three-room Chateau d'Auteil is a delightful spot set in an impressive country house not far from Beauvais. The elegant rooms feature plenty of antiques and you can head off on long walks around the extensive gardens.
• Le Chateau De La Tour is a sophisticated stay set in a castle-like hotel just outside Chantilly. It boasts smart rooms, a stylish bar, a restaurant serving up traditional cuisine and easy access to Paris. Perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.

For the seaside

• Set in a turreted red brick house, Les Tourelles boasts simple but rooms overlooking the sea in Le Crotoy. It's incredibly child-friendly, whilst the restaurant serves up truly scrumptious seafood that's bound to impress.
• Located in Saint Valery sur Somme, Au Velocipede is a delightful B&B with smart yet simple rooms and an eco-restaurant serving up locally-sourced food.
• La Femme D'A Cote is a stylish stay with sleek and minimalist accommodation also in Saint Valery. A great base for exploring the Somme Bay area.
• Le Cise is a collection of smart, contemporary rooms and suites with minimalist furnishings and plenty of light, set in a stunning clifftop location a few kms from Le Treport. You'll love meals in their fine-dining restaurant and the breathtaking seaviews, whilst there's also a sauna, pool, and a jacuzzi.
• Hidden Bay Hotel is a stylish stay with simple but smart rooms overlooking the bay in Cayeux sur Mer. Come back after a day on the beach to enjoy lovely seafood from the restaurant.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer the flexibility of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The nearest airports are in Paris, either Charles de Gaulle Airport or Orly Airport, from where you can catch a train on to your final destination in Picardy.
• Weather-wise, the warmest months are July or August when the average temperature rises to 19°C.
• This, however, is peak tourist season - for a quieter and cheaper alternative, consider visiting in May or October.
• If you'd like the freedom of having a car with you then check out the selection with Rentalcars.

Still not sure which to book?

• Take another look through our list of all the best places to stay in Picardy.
• Widen the net to include our recommendations in neighbouring Normandy or the Pas de Calais.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.