Marenla: History, Hiking and Kayaking

Marenla brings together traces of several centuries with two very different activities: the “La Falaise” hike and the Marenla FS freestyle kayaking spot on the Canche. If you are looking for a hotel in Marenla, choosing a specific focus can help you plan your trip: local history, a longer hike, and paddling each call for a different day’s itinerary. The following highlights can help you decide which topics suit your trip.

History of Ferme des Dames and the Paper Mill

Ferme des Dames dates back to 1651. More than a century later, in 1761, it was rebuilt under the administration of the Abbess of Sainte-Austreberthe, Anne-Marie de Jouanne d'Esgeigny. The two dates mark the origins and later rebuilding of the farm, providing a specific reference point for placing its history in context.

Another historical thread is the Papeterie de Marenla. From 1852, Adrien Fresnaye developed it into a mechanical paper mill. In 1889, the paper mill received a bronze medal at the World’s Fair in Paris. These offer two distinct historical perspectives: the rebuilding of Ferme des Dames and the development of a paper mill.

Architectural Heritage in Marenla

The Église Saint-Aubin is part of Marenla’s notable, unprotected architectural heritage. This also includes a remnant of the former abbey provostry. The church’s status has two aspects: “notable” describes its architectural significance, while “unprotected” refers to its protection status.

La Falaise: Views Over the Canche Valley

The “La Falaise” hike is about 11 km long and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes. It offers views of the heights of Marenla and the Canche Valley. The distance and duration can help you plan the route as an activity lasting several hours; both figures are approximate. Check conditions before setting out.

Marenla FS: A Double Spot on the Canche

The topo description dated 12 October 2019 classifies Marenla FS as a double freestyle kayaking spot on the Canche near the village of Marenla: one section is more wave-like, while the other is more hole-like. The spot is formed by an old weir with guillotine gates. Water levels and river management can change the physical conditions; check them before using the spot.

Access is an important planning consideration at Marenla FS. The spot cannot be reached directly on foot. Paddlers put in downstream and paddle about 100 m upstream against the current on the Canche. If you include the spot in your trip plans, take this access route into account and check local conditions.

Hiking or Paddling?

Before searching, decide whether you would rather plan your stay around a hike lasting several hours or around freestyle kayaking.

Discover other destinations: Mouriez, Houlle, Acquin-Westbécourt, Gauchin-Verloingt, Billy-Berclau, Camiers, Écuires, Sanghen.

For the broader travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.