Les Dunes du Fort Vert
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Les Dunes du Fort Vert
582 Chemin des Dunes - 62100 CALAIS
A landscape reclaimed from the sea
The natural area of the Dunes of Fort Vert is situated within a particular geography: that of the poldersThese low-lying lands, reclaimed from the sea over the centuries and drained by a network of hand-dug micro-canals, watering holesThis is the edge of the Low Countries, with its open horizons, vast skies, and coastline that retains a natural, even wild, character. In the immediate vicinity of the car ferry terminal, dunes, ponds, and wetlands are gradually regenerating in the northern part of the site, and a bird ringing area testifies to the sector's level of scientific interest. Viewpoints and observation points are scattered along the discovery trails, for those who wish to take the time to observe without disturbing the wildlife.
©Timothé Lovergne 
©Timothé Lovergne Two beaches are accessible from Fort Vert. The hutch and Hemmes beach in Marck They form a single stretch of coastline, but they present two different faces: the first, adjoining the port of Calais, is secluded and wild, reserved for walkers who take the trouble to go to the end of the Taaf breakwater. The second offers the necessary space for the pleasures of land sailing.
Heathland Observatory
Before reaching the beach or the remains of the battery, the trail offers a discreet first stop: an observation point nestled in the heart of the heath, seemingly an invitation to slow down. This small wooden shelter, open to the low vegetation, provides a privileged view of the surrounding wetlands and meadows, without disturbing the wildlife. Here, patience is rewarded: depending on the season, egrets, spoonbills, or migratory songbirds flit about just a few meters away, indifferent to the motionless walker. An ideal starting point for exploring the site, before continuing on to the Oldenburg Battery viewpoint to take in the panorama in all its grandeur.
The visit requires simple precautions: boots or hiking shoes resistant to mud, binoculars to observe without getting too close.
©Timothé Lovergne 
©Timothé Lovergne Flora and fauna: a space to observe with patience
Please note that this site is subject to specific regulations for the protection of wildlife and flora. Between dunes, salt marshes, and wide tidal flats, the Fort Vert natural area is home to egrets, spoonbills, common shelducks, and ringed plovers, which nest directly on the sand from April to August. At low tide, colonies of seals rest at the foot of the Walde lighthouse. Binoculars and quiet observation are the only equipment needed. The Fort Vert Dunes are among the four best birdwatching sites in the region.
The Top 4 Observation Sites
The Oldenburg battery
In the heart of the natural landscape, an unexpected presence: the colossal remains of the Oldenburg batteryBuilt in 1940 as part of the Atlantic Wall, it was initially designed to support Operation Sea Lion, the planned invasion of England. In 1942, it was converted into a defensive structure integrated into the Atlantic Wall. Its two main bunkers, Turm West and Turm East, each measure 35 meters long and 15 meters high, and housed two 240 mm guns captured from the Russian army during the First World War and re-calibrated by Krupp.
The Canadian army seized the site during the Liberation of Calais In September 1944, part of it was dynamited. The remains are still impressive. A wooden walkway provides access to the top of the battery and offers a panoramic view of the entire coastline.
Discover the Oldenburg Battery
©Nohcab ©Timothé Lovergne 
