5 Properties for sale in Somme, Hauts-de-France (formerly Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardy), France

This northern department in the region of Picardy has a distinct feel with its flat and open terrain and its particular accents and dialects. The area has been the site of some of the most important battles in European history, not least of which being the eponymous battle of World War I. Today, many people come here to visit the memorials and battlefields, as well as the department's seaside resorts along the coast.

CAPITAL: AMIENS - The main claim to fame for this city is its impressive Gothic cathedral, which has been given UNESCO World Heritage status. Twice a year, festivals are held around the historic monument: La Festivale en Couleurs in September and Le Marché de Noël in December. The St-Leu quarter is particularly pleasant, with narrow streets full of art galleries, bookshops, boutiques and antique dealers, mingling with its narrow and colourful houses. The water market is a great place to start the day on a Saturday morning, while the trendy bars around the Notre-Dame bring the day to a close.