Easter Delights: A British Traveler's Guide to Calais for the Holidays
Welcome to Calais, where Easter celebrations blend seamlessly with French charm, offering British travelers a delightful getaway during the holiday season. As you embark on your Easter holiday in France, Calais beckons with its enchanting traditions, delectable chocolates, and exciting adventures. Join us on a journey through the heart of Calais as we uncover the treasures awaiting you this Easter.
Unveiling Easter Traditions in Calais
The origins of Easter eggs date back to ancient civilizations, where they symbolized fertility and new life. In Calais, this tradition comes to life with the annual egg hunt in Parc Saint-Pierre. This year, on the weekend of March 30th to April 1st, families gather to partake in the festivities, with 55,000 chocolate eggs hidden throughout the park. From labyrinthine paths for children to age-specific activities, the egg hunt promises fun for all ages, making it a must-visit event during your Day trip for Easter holiday.
Tempting Treats: Calais' Chocolatiers
No Easter celebration is complete without indulging in decadent chocolates, and Calais boasts some of the finest chocolatiers in France. Among them, l'Atelier du Chocolat stands out, offering a tantalizing array of Easter creations. Dive into the "Printemps de Pâques" assortment, featuring delights like praline-filled butterflies and chocolate hedgehogs. For a touch of magic, don't miss the "Magic Bunny," a disappearing act that leaves behind a trail of delicious treats.
At Beussent Lachelle, craftsmanship meets creativity, with each chocolate masterpiece crafted with care and precision. From intricately designed origami rabbits to hand-painted chocolate eggs, every bite is a testament to the artistry of French chocolate-making. Treat yourself to a taste of luxury this Easter with chocolates that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
A Day Trip Adventure in Calais
Beyond Easter festivities and chocolate delights, Calais offers a myriad of experiences for the adventurous traveler. Take advantage of the free ferry crossing and embark on a day trip to Calais, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the French coastline. From leisurely coastal walks to breathtaking views, Calais invites you to explore its natural wonders and cultural treasures.
Venture into the heart of Calais and discover its rich history, from the iconic Calais Lace Museum to the imposing Calais Citadel. Explore the bustling streets lined with quaint cafes and artisanal shops, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs. Whether you're strolling along the beach or admiring the Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame de Calais, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming town.
Shopping at Calais Vins: Your Gateway to Quality Shopping and Savings
Experience the epitome of quality shopping and savings at Calais Vins, where every purchase is a testament to excellence. As highlighted in the Quality and Savings when Buying Wine in Calais article, our commitment to offering premium products at unbeatable prices ensures that you get the best value for your money. With a surge in alcohol prices in the UK, as discussed in the Surge in Alcohol Prices in the UK Fuels a Boom at Calais Vins article, now is the perfect time to stock up on your favorite wines, beers, and spirits at Calais Vins. Whether you're a connoisseur seeking the finest vintages or a savvy shopper looking to save, Calais Vins has something for everyone. Indulge in quality shopping and enjoy
Pairing Easter Delights with Fine Wines and Spirits
Complemente your chocolate delights with exquisite wines and spirits from Calais Vins and Olivier Vins. As you savor the sweetness of Easter chocolates, elevate your taste buds with perfectly curated pairings. Imagine the delicate Perlé de Groseilles Sparkling Fermented Redcurrant Juice dancing harmoniously with rich, dark chocolates, enhancing the fruity notes of both. For a more robust pairing, delve into the velvety depths of Domaine Lafage Cuvée Nicolas, where the intense black fruit flavors complement the bittersweetness of chocolate with finesse. Alternatively, sip on the warm, inviting flavors of Andresen Tawny Port Wine, its hints of red fruit and prunes intertwining seamlessly with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate truffles. And for a touch of elegance, toast to the season with Alexandre Demarjory Rosé Champagne, where the effervescence of strawberries and currants intertwine with the delicate flavors of white chocolate. Let us be your guide in creating unforgettable Easter memories, where each sip and bite is a celebration of indulgence and delight.
Shopping with us: Your Gateway to Duty-Free Savings
In partnership with Olivers Vins and Calais Vins superstores, P&O Ferries offers British travelers an exclusive opportunity to travel free. Simply follow these steps:
- Place an online order of €300 minimum and add the crossing to your online basket.
- Deposit €60 online by credit card (only debited if you don't pick up your order).
Calais Vins goes the extra mile for its British customers by providing tax-free vouchers, allowing you to reclaim VAT upon boarding at the Eurotunnel and ferry terminals in Calais. By scanning a barcode at the kiosks, the refund process is activated, ensuring significant savings on your purchases.
How to Get the Refund on VAT
- Browse the vast selection of wines, beers, and spirits at Calais Vins and pay at the cash desk as usual.
- Calais Vins will provide you with a tax-free voucher, certifying your purchases and the amount of VAT you can claim back.
- Simply scan the barcode on the tax-free form at the ferry port or Eurotunnel terminal, and the French authorities will validate your claim.
With partnerships with Global Blue and Skiptax, Calais Vins streamlines the refund process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for British customers amidst duty reforms.
As your Easter holiday in Calais draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the memories you've made and the experiences you've shared. From egg hunts to duty-free shopping, Calais offers a truly unforgettable Easter getaway for British travelers. So pack your bags, book your ferry, and get ready to experience the magic of Easter in Calais. Bon voyage and happy Easter!
