France

Picardy

Picardie

Located 30 kms north of Paris, the Picardy region extends east toward Champagne and west to the English Channel. Close to the Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport, a 20-minute drive from southern Picardy, the region is easily accessible by plane, train and car. Divided into 3 departments, the Somme, Aisne and Oise, Picardy is France's first region, marking the historical beginning of France. Prehistoric sites, Gallo-roman remains, churches, castles and WWI battlefields bring this history alive for visitors. The birthplace of Gothic architecture, Picardy features six cathedrals -- the largest of which is located in Amiens. For a taste of the Picardy countryside, visitors can take the steam railway from Froissy to Dompierre in the Somme valley which offers a picturesque view of the charming villages of the area.