At 22 nautical miles away from Dover in England, the town of Calais in Northern France is the closest major town to the English shoreline. Its geography has made the town an important crossing point between France, England other Northern European nations for many centuries. Today, regular ferry services operate out of Calais, and the town is also situated close to the Channel Tunnel crossing at Sangatte, providing easy access to prospective buyers of French property from the UK.
During World War II, Calais was subjected to heavy aerial bombardment. Substantial damage was caused to its medieval heritage and the town underwent intense rebuilding after the war. Today, the canals that surrounded the old walled town like a moat can still be seen, as can other reminders of Calais' ancient past such as the imposing 13th century watchtower. One of the most impressive buildings in Calais is the Town Hall, with its bronze carving of the Six Burghers outside on the green.
Calais property in the town itself is fairly modern. Prices for a 2-bed Calais property in the centre of town start at around 150,000 euros. Out along the coast, French property that is altogether more secluded can be found, including property with sea views from atop the white chalk cliffs. To the south of Calais, the countryside opens up into wooded hills and forests. The Caps et Marais D'Opale National Park can be found here - a truly a breathtaking area in which to search for that private villa in France.
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