Travel writer explores cross channel ferry ports

People planning cross channel ferry trips this year can make use of a guide published in the Independent newspaper exploring the port towns of northern France.

Travel writer Simon Calder starts with Dunkerque, the northernmost town in France, which boasts a Contemporary Art Museum showcasing "dramatic creations" and some of the best moules frites – a dish of mussels, garlic and chilli – in the country.

The guide then moves west to Calais, which, according to Mr Calder, offers the best shopping of all the northern port towns.

In the centre of Calais, ferry travellers can see an impressive Flemish town hall and visit specialty shops before heading to the beach or one of the town's many restaurants.

A visit to Boulogne offers the chance to explore the beach resort of Wimereux, while Dieppe is home to Chateau Musee, described by Mr Calder as "fascinating", and a number of "superb" seafood restaurants.

France's westernmost cross channel ferry port is St Malo, which is one of the country's prettiest harbour towns according to the Independent guide, and located close to Dinard, another popular tourist destination.

Dunkerque and Calais are served by Norfolkline, P&O Ferries and Seafrance from Dover, while LD Lines provides ferry crossings from Dover to Boulogne and Dieppe.

Brittany Ferries sails from Portsmouth to St Malo, while Condor Ferries offers access to the French port from both Weymouth and Poole.

Dover - Calais

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on:

13/03/2012 - 13/03/2012

£13

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Dover - Calais

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on:

12/03/2012 - 12/03/2012

£20

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Dover - Calais

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

12/03/2012 - 12/03/2012

£19

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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