Its major city is Lille, which is just captivating and is the crossroads of TGV Paris - Brussels and London. Sandy beaches and imposing cliffs make up the 150-mile stretch of coastline. Visitors can cruise the network of canals and rivers and explore the wide countryside and nature reserves. There is almost always a fair, fete or festival going on. The Flemish influence in this region is evident in its architecture, cuisine and the names of its towns.
Golf is the most popular sport followed by horseback riding, mountain biking and water sports.
This region specializes in textiles manufacturing, linen, cotton, and lace. Amiens Picardy is the first region and the historical beginning of France. Calm woods, great forests, green pastures and quiet ponds blend with the peaceful, simple lifestyle of its people. It is the birthplace of Gothic architecture with six cathedrals, the largest of which is located in Amiens. The town of Chantilly is credited with the invention of whipped cream.