BlancNez

BlancNez, commonly written as Cap Blanc-Nez, is a chalk headland on the northern coast of France, located in the Pas-de-Calais department of the Hauts-de-France region. It lies on the Côte d’Opale between Calais and Boulogne-sur-Mer, near the commune of Escalles, and marks the northern extremity of the department.

Geographically, the cape features white chalk cliffs that rise up to around 70 meters above sea level and extend along a several-kilometer stretch of coastline. The cliffs are part of the Calcified Chalk formations dating to the Cretaceous period, contributing to a distinctive landscape visible from the sea and inland views.

BlancNez is part of the Caps et Marais d’Opale Regional Natural Park, a protected area aimed at preserving coastal habitats and scenery. The site is a popular destination for visitors seeking panoramic sea views, hiking, and birdwatching. The Sentier du Littoral, a coastal walking path, runs along the cape and provides access to lookout points and the surrounding natural environment. A lighthouse, the Cap Blanc-Nez Lighthouse, stands on the cape and serves as a maritime landmark.

The name Blanc-Nez derives from the whiteness of the chalk cliffs and the French geographic term nez, meaning headland or promontory. On clear days, observers can glimpse across the Channel toward England, including the distant view of the English coast and the historic association with cross-channel travel.

Access to BlancNez is via regional roads from Calais or Boulogne-sur-Mer, with parking and visitor facilities available in the vicinity.