High tides
in the Bay of
the Somme
The magic of spring tides
- 2tides per day
- 100average coefficient of a large tide
- 2equinox tides per year
To the rhythm of the tides
breathtaking natural spectacle
The Bay of the Somme lives to the rhythm of the tides. The landscape changes with each ebb and flow of the waters.
The high tides take place at the time of the full and new moons, when the moon and sun are in alignment with the earth.
At low tide, the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see, while at high tide, the waters reach right up to the foot of the dikes, bathing the salt meadows where the sheep usually graze…
After the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, the Baie de Somme is home toone of the highest tidal ranges on Europe’s coasts.
Their amplitude can reach 10 meters during the spring and autumn equinoxes.
Be very careful and don ‘t venture into the bay alone. Qualinat-certified nature guides offer outings all year round and specifically for spring tides. Don’t hesitate to contact them.
The most beautiful viewpoints
to observe
- The ports of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, Le Hourdel and Le Tréport provide an opportunity to see the full extent of the phenomenon, thanks to the landmarks provided by the maritime infrastructures, and to observe the rising tide in all its power.
- Cap Hornu: you’ll be on the same level as the sea.
- The sailors’ chapel at Saint-Valery-sur-Somme for its commanding position and panoramic view over the whole Bay.
- The sandy beaches of Quend or Fort-Mahon at low tide – they seem endless.
- The cliffs of Ault or Mers-les-Bains to watch the rising waters.
Parc du Marquenterre, Maison de la Baie de Somme, Découvrons la baie and Sens Naturel guides offer themed “Great Tides” outings to observe and understand this exceptional natural phenomenon in complete safety.
When the moon and sun are in alignment with the earth…
High tides
dates 2025
January 31 to February 3
February 28 to March 4
March 29 to April 2
April 27 to May 1
May 26th to 29th
August 11 to 13
August 25 and 26
September 8 to 12
September 23rd
October 6 to 11
November 5 to 9
December 4 to 8
Meeting with
Arnaud Lengignon
Nature Guide
“The Baie de Somme is, after the Baie du Mont Saint Michel, the scene of one of the highest tidal ranges on the European coast. This walk will give you the opportunity to see this very special spectacle of the tide rising in the estuary, to discover its causes, but also and above all to observe the birds fleeing the tide in search of high tide resting places. We’ll meet at the Maye parking lot for a 3-hour outing in the heart of the nature reserve.
