GB The marina of Aire-sur-la-Lys

River tourism is popular at the moment, so let yourself be transported by the waves and see the most beautiful landscapes pass by from the comfort of your boat. From Burgundy to the legendary Canal du Midi, visitors in search of a new experience recharge their batteries along the water. That’s all Aire-sur-la-Lys needed, being a town of water and a historic river crossroads, to be part of this dynamic with the creation of a brand-new river port, ready to welcome visitors from the four corners of the world.

Aire-sur-la-Lys, between trade and slow tourism

River tourism appeared in France in the 1970s, and it ts perfectly into “slow tourism” and is naturally associated with other nature activities. It must be said that France has the largest waterway network in Europe with 8500 km of waterways, so it seemed natural that the Belle of Pasde-Calais, Aire-sur-la-Lys, be part of it. In addition, between the river and Aire, it is an old story that has allowed the economic development of the city. As a matter of fact, by its geographical location, the basin of the 4 faces is at the crossroads of the city of Aire between the Canal de Neuffossé (towards Saint-Omer, the port of Arques), the Canal of Aire (towards Béthune, La Bassée and towards the Deûle), the channelled and navigable Lys (towards Haverskerque, Armentières and Deûlémont) and the intramural Lys, with its source in Lisbourg. It once allowed merchant ships to turn around and navigate in the desired direction. Already appearing on the map of 1745, the basin was a commercial crossroads that made Aire-sur-la-Lys a cloth city of great importance in the sector.

The river port, a unique way to discover the Belle of Pas-de-Calais

In 2023, the river port is undergoing a makeover and will return to its primary vocation: navigation. Boats, Dutch-built motor cruisers, row boats and barges (up to 18 metres) can stop over for a stay or moor on site and make it their home port. Redesigned to accommodate around forty boats, boaters passing through will be able to enjoy many comforts: water, electricity and even a Wi-Fi connection.

The harbourmaster’s of ce is a calm place to socialise and also a meeting place, punctuated by entertainment during the summer period. It is a very pleasant place to enjoy river activities: bike rides along the Halage and EuroVéloroute 5 or even hikes. In addition, a few steps away, the historic town centre of Aire-surla-Lys and its historical heritage is a real treasure: the Belfry with its pretty gatehouse, the imposing collegiate church and its charming town hall. It is also an opportunity to taste the culinary specialities with the very famous andouille d’Aire or the mastelle, an absolutely succulent orange blossom biscuit. On foot, by bike or by boat, a place to discover or rediscover from summer 2023.