The lush green valley spreads beyond the medieval walled city of Montreuil-sur-Mer in Northern France. The cobbled-street city was the setting for much of Victor Hugo's Les Misérables. Click photos to enlarge.
Ancient ramparts surround much of the city, once a thriving river port. Because of the River Canche's silt build-up, Montreuil-sur-Mer is now about 13 miles from the sea.
The photos in my banner (above) are from a previous trip to Montreuil-sur-Mer. Check back later for more photos of this beautiful city.
*With a nod to Richard Llewelleyn's 1939 novel How Green Was My Valley and John Ford's 1941 film of the same name.
Those colors! Gorgeous ramparts. Plus I'm intrigued by the little farm houses in the top photo. Maybe I can get some eggs, butter, cheese, and peasant bread from the farmers for a nice picnic on that luscious green grass.
Posted by: dutchbaby | 17 April 2009 at 15:06
It is a gorgeous place - both the valley and within the city's walls. All the streets are cobblestone and there's so much beautiful - and very old - architecture. xoxox
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:21
Thank you for the kind words. Montreuil-sur-Mer is a gorgeous place, rich with history. I'll be posting more photos soon.
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:19
It is a wonderful place; very quiet and beautiful.
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:19
No, Jeanie, I'm afraid it's the opposite direction from Normandy. But you must see Normandy, even if it's just a day trip. The light there is amazing - not to mention the beaches and the history.
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:18
Thank you, dearest Gill. I will be posting more photos of Montreuil-sur-Mer soon. xoxox
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:17
Thank you for the kudos, dear TB! The entire city is walled and it is a fascinating place.
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:16
Thanks, Di. It was my third visit there. A lovely and peaceful place, with a couple of terrific antique shops! :)
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:16
Yoli, thank YOU for the lovely compliment! xo
Posted by: Tara Bradford | 16 April 2009 at 23:15
I want to lay there on one of those hills. I just want to take it in to the fullest. So cool!
; )
Posted by: Christina | 15 April 2009 at 20:04
I didn't need to click on the photos to enlarge them because I was soaking up that green the moment I strolled on to your blog. Your new header is fantastic and the writing and images are as mesmerising as usual. Many thanks.
Greetings from London.
Posted by: A Cuban In London | 14 April 2009 at 20:26
This is gorgeous. Northern France -- we are going to do a one-day to Normandy -- is that near there? I HAVE to get a map and spend some time googling! It is simply gorgeous! I love the history and tidbits you impart with it! Les Mis, huh? Pretty cool!
Posted by: jeanie | 14 April 2009 at 19:15
Tha valley is just where I want to be, in its green splendor. I can travle their through my imagination and your photos! xoxoxo
Posted by: A Fanciful Twist | 14 April 2009 at 18:19
Those lush green hills are just what I need! What an incredible view.
I loved the photos in your banner and had always wondered where they were taken.
I will go explore the internet for more information about this lush medieval place.
Xoxo
Posted by: Gillian da Silva | 14 April 2009 at 18:06
Tara as a huge lover of fortresses, this to me is one of your most beautiful of posts and pictures. Thank you.
Posted by: Yoli | 14 April 2009 at 16:09
Ah so this is where you have been. Looks gorgeous!
Posted by: Di Overton | 14 April 2009 at 16:06
What gorgeous greenery and sense of history. So very far far away from here. Lovely photos.
Posted by: tangobaby | 14 April 2009 at 15:50