Picardie, France Main Towns: Abbeville, Amiens, Beauvais, Chantilly, Chaumont-en-Verin, Compiegne, Creil, Doullens, Ermenonville, Guise, Hirson, Laon, Montdidier, Neufchatel, Noyon, Peronne, Pierrefonds, Poix, Roye, Scissons, Senlis, St Quentin, Tergnier, Vervins, Villers-Cotterets.

Picardie, or Picardy, is the birthplace of Gothic architecture with six cathedrals, the largest of which, Cathédrale Notre-Dame, is located in Amiens and is the pinnacle of Gothic style. Amiens, the capital of Picardy, was renowned for its velvets under the Ancien Régime.

Its cathedrals are the main appeal of Picardy. Splendid cathedrals at Noyon, Senlis and the delightful hilltop town of Laon chart the evolution of the Gothic style. Closer to Paris, two châteaux command attention. Chantilly boasts gardens by Le Nôtre and a 19th-century château housing many art treasures. Compiègne, bordered by a large and inviting forest, plays host to a lavish royal palace favoured by French rulers from Louis XIV to Napoleon III.

From here to the Somme valley the legacy of World War I, with its memorial cemeteries and poppy-strewn battlefields, makes compelling viewing.

For those who like castles, Chantilly, Compiegne, Pierrefonds or the castle of Rambures offer interesting visits. Ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France, the village of Gerberoy and the ride in the little train of the Somme are absolute musts.

The town of Chantilly is credited with the invention of whipped cream. Pottery and laces are a very well known product of this region. Fresh fish and seafood is popular in this region. A favourite local dish is Carbonnade Flamande, beef and onions cooked in beer. Also popular is chicory-flavoured coffee.

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