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Picardie – the backdrop of great moments in history – features a rich, varied natural and architectural patrimony.

PICARDIE - EN

An entire world of horse racing opens to enthusiasts here in Chantilly, with more than 3,000 horses training here on a daily basis. The great historical horse racing stables bustle with the activity of riders, trainers and veterinarians. Specialized guides lead the way around the massive complex and stables. A 10-minute drive from the Hotel Mercure Chantilly Resort & Conventions. A 35-minute drive from the Hotel Mercure Compiègne Sud. For more information, please consult <https://www.chantilly-senlis-tourisme.com/la-destination/terre-de-cheval/lhippodrome-de-chantilly/> 

**©Istock by Gettyimages**

Grandes Écuries

Behind this strange name is a former hospital, built in the 12th century on the outskirts of the town to care for patients suffering from leprosy. It was converted into a farm after the French Revolution, and after undergoing a vast restoration project, the establishment is managed today by the Beauvais community. It has become a vibrant cultural venue for concerts, shows, visits and conventions. A 10-minute drive or a 40-minute walk from Hotel Mercure Beauvais Centre Cathédrale. For more information, please consult <https://maladrerie.fr/> 

**©Istock by Gettyimages**

La Maladrerie Saint-Lazare

Curious to learn to whip Chantilly cream like a pro? The Atelier de la Chantilly is a concept that explores its origins through an interactive circuit and offers an array of homemade pastries to treat your sweet tooth. Located at the center of town, this establishment was founded by the enthusiasts of the official Confrérie des Chevaliers Fouetteurs de Crème Chantilly. The castle also hosts Chantilly cream workshops at certain times of year. Less than a 10-minute drive from Hotel Mercure Chantilly Resort & Conventions and a 35-minute drive from Hotel Mercure Compiègne Sud. For more information, please consult <https://atelier.delachantilly.fr/> 

**©Istock by Gettyimages**

Atelier de la Chantilly

Le Crotoy was a favorite destination for the perfumer Pierre Guerlain in the second half of the 19th century, and he greatly contributed to its success as a seaside resort. He had a hotel built here to cater to Empress Eugénie, later renamed Le Grand Hôtel. The building then became a residence known as Villa Le Souvenir and is now a hotel called Hotel les Tourelles. It stands on Rue Guerlain, named in honor of the perfumer. The towers of the bright red hotel are visible and recognizable from afar. A 30-minute drive from the Hotel Mercure Abeville Centre. For more information, please consult <http://www.lestourelles.com/> 

**@Paul Schrepfer/Wikimedia Commons**

Villa le Souvenir

Located at the intersection between Pas de Calais and Somme, the Baie d’Authie is just as remarkable – though lesser-known – than the Baie de Somme. The coastline here is a listed Site de France, and it offers a great diversity of landscapes across 5,190 acres. It is particularly appreciated by hikers seeking tranquility in a wild, untouched natural setting. Seals, too, seek refuge here by the dozens during certain months of the year. A 30-minute drive from Hotel Mercure Le Touquet. For more information, please consult <https://www.tourisme-en-hautsdefrance.com/mes-envies/grands-espaces-iodes/panoramas-baie-dauthie-lautre-baie/> 

**©Istock by Gettyimages**

Baie d’Authie

The construction of Notre Dame d’Amiens began in 1220, so it celebrated its 800th anniversary in 2020. This is the largest cathedral in France and the largest Gothic building built in medieval times. To fully appreciate its magnificence, there is no better approach than to rise above it. From its rooftops, you’ll get a clear view of the city of Amiens and also the medieval spire of the building, which happens to be the last remaining medieval spire on any cathedral. A 5-minute walk from Hotel Mercure Amiens Cathédrale and a 40-minute drive from Hotel Mercure Abbeville Centre. For more information, please consult <https://www.cathedrale-amiens.fr/> 

**©Istock by Gettyimages**

PICARDIE - EN

La Maladrerie Saint-Lazare

Cathedral rooftops

Atelier de la Chantilly

Grandes Écuries

Villa le Souvenir

Baie d’Authie