Exploring Lecelles, France: A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Discovering Local History and Nature
Morning:
Visit the Church of Saint-Martin: Start your day by visiting the Church of Saint-Martin, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 16th century. This historical site provides insight into the religious and cultural heritage of Lecelles.
Contact: Rue de l'Église, 59750 Lecelles. No entry fee.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Artisanale: Head to this local bakery for affordable yet delicious sandwiches, pastries, and freshly baked bread. Enjoy your meal at one of the nearby picnic spots or benches.
Address: 1 Place de la Mairie, 59750 Lecelles.
Average cost: €5-€10 per person.
Explore Parc Naturel Régional Scarpe-Escaut: Spend your afternoon exploring this beautiful regional park, which features walking trails, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers!
Location: Accessible via D933, approximately 15 minutes from Lecelles.
Entry: Free.
Evening:
Accommodation at Gîte Rural: Stay at a rustic countryside gîte (holiday home) for an authentic experience. These accommodations are often self-catering and very affordable.
Recommended Option: Gîte La Ferme du Bois
Address: 2 Rue du Bois, 59750 Lecelles.
Cost: Approximately €30-€40 per night.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine
Morning:
Visit Musée de la Vie Rurale: Learn about the traditional rural life of the region through exhibits showcasing farming tools, household items, and photographs from the past.
Address: 10 Rue des Écoles, 59750 Lecelles.
Entry Fee: €3 per adult.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Café du Commerce: This cozy café serves hearty French dishes such as steak frites and ratatouille at reasonable prices.
Address: 5 Rue Principale, 59750 Lecelles.
Average cost: €10-€15 per person.
Walk Around Village Center: Stroll through the quaint streets of Lecelles, admire the half-timbered houses, and interact with friendly locals.
Evening:
Dinner at Auberge du Vieux Moulin: End your day with a meal at this charming inn offering traditional French cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
Address: 8 Chemin du Moulin, 59750 Lecelles.
Average cost: €15-€20 per person.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
Morning:
Excursion to Douai: Take a short train ride (approximately 30 minutes) to Douai, a vibrant town known for its belfry, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the impressive Palais de Justice.
Train Details: Depart from Lecelles station round-trip ticket costs around €10.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Crêperie Bretonne: Enjoy savory and sweet crepes at this popular spot in Douai.
Address: 15 Rue des Fossés, 59500 Douai.
Average cost: €8-€12 per person.
Return to Lecelles: Spend your evening relaxing at your accommodation or revisiting favorite spots in the village.
Additional Expenses That Could Enhance Your Experience
- Bike Rental: Rent a bike to explore the scenic countryside around Lecelles. Cost: €10-€15 per day.
- Guided Tour: Book a guided tour of the region for deeper insights into its history and culture. Cost: €20-€30 per person.
- Transportation Pass: Purchase a regional transport pass for unlimited travel within the area. Cost: €15-€20 for 3 days.