If you fancy getting a taste of Europe whilst behind the wheel of your car, but don’t want to go too far, then exploring the area around Calais with its huge natural park might be ideal. A good route is to take the D940 via Boulogne and travel along the Côte d'Opale to Le Touquet, before opting for the D349 to Heading along the River Canche. After heading north to St Omer, take the N43 north-west back to Calais via Ardes.

This short trip is perhaps ideal for those who have not done many long road trips (particularly in foreign climes) and who want to dip their toe in for a more adventurous trip later on.

This route makes you realise that there are actually some very pretty places in northern France (anyone who has driven down to Paris might think it is just flat and featureless). You will find a great deal of pretty little villages along the way, together with many historic sites. One place you should ensure you get to is the Cap Gris Nez, a windy point on the coast from where you will be able to see dear old Blighty – as long as the visibility is good.

In Boulogne you will find Europe’s largest aquarium, a plethora of cobbled streets and squares – not forgetting the town’s historic port. Other highlights include the wonderful selection of seafood restaurants at Etaples, and Le Touquet with its boutiques and restaurants that conjure up images of the 1920s, and where the rich Parisians of yesteryear built their expensive holiday homes.

If you want to experience something quite different from home, but don’t want to take a month off work to do it, then hopping across to Calais for this road trip is perfect. But as close as it is, don’t forget to make sure your European breakdown cover is up to date as well.