Sentier Jules Ferry – Fort Vert
Calais
2 min read
A short loop through Fort Vert, combining open coastal scenery, a birdwatching hide and the imposing concrete remains of Batterie Oldenburg.
The walk
East of Calais, Fort Vert is an open coastal area of dunes, grassland and three walking routes. At 1.5 kilometres, Sentier Jules Ferry is the shortest loop and offers a quick introduction to the site’s nature, recent history and the huge concrete remains of Batterie Oldenburg.
A short loop through Fort Vert
Three walking routes start from the Fort Vert car park. Sentier Jules Ferry is the shortest at around 1.5 kilometres, while two longer loops cover roughly 4.6 and 6.5 kilometres.
The walk mainly follows unpaved paths through an open landscape of grassland, scrub, wetlands and dunes. Despite its short distance, the route quickly leaves the built-up surroundings behind. The open terrain provides wide views and a good introduction to the wider natural area.
A place with a recent history
Part of this area became widely known in 2015 and 2016 because of the large informal migrant camp commonly referred to as the Calais Jungle. The camp was cleared in October 2016.
Today, walkers mainly see paths, grassland, wetlands and a birdwatching hide. During my visit, I could not see any direct trace of the former camp itself.
That recent history remains part of the area, but the walk today is mainly defined by the open coastal landscape and the nature of Fort Vert.
Batterie Oldenburg in the dunes
The main historical feature on the short loop is Batterie Oldenburg. This German coastal battery was developed from 1940 northeast of Calais. Its two large casemates each housed a heavy 24 cm gun with a maximum range of approximately 28.3 kilometres.
The enormous concrete casemates and several smaller military structures remain today. Their sheer size only becomes clear when you stand beside them. A red cross can still be seen inside one of the structures.
Other military remains can be found farther into the area.
Back via the birdwatching hide
After Batterie Oldenburg, the short loop heads back towards the car park. Along the way, you pass a birdwatching hide. Fort Vert is an important area for birdlife, and Eden 62 also uses the site to study migrating birds.
I did not see many birds during my visit, but the hide makes a logical final stop before returning to the car park.
Photos from this walk
Jay’s tips
If you have more time, continue with one of Fort Vert’s longer loops. You will see more of the dune landscape and come across additional military remains.
Good to know
Sturdy footwear recommended
Little shade
Birdwatching hide or viewpoint
Military heritage
Nature observation point
There is little shade, and sturdy footwear is recommended. The military structures are old and are not all set up for visitors. Watch out for uneven ground, loose concrete and dark or difficult-to-access spaces. Stay on the paths and respect any closed areas.
My experience
I had a few doubts about the area before visiting and initially came mainly for the bunkers. Once I arrived, it turned out to be much quieter and greener than I had expected. What impressed me most was the sheer size of Batterie Oldenburg’s concrete structures.
Because I was short on time, I stuck to the short loop. By the end, I felt that I had only seen a small part of Fort Vert. I would definitely return to explore one of the longer routes.
Waymarking
Not waymarked
Route map available on site
Places of interest
Batterie Oldenburg
Along the route
German Second World War coastal battery with two heavy 24 cm guns and massive concrete casemates in the dunes.
Ready to set off?
Open the starting point in your GPS and enjoy the walk.
