A Thoughtful Journey Through the Somme Battlefields
This guided day trip to the Somme takes you through some of the most significant World War I sites in northern France. For around $660 per group of up to 40 people, Perrine’s tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines historical insights with local tastes. It’s not just a list of sights—it’s an opportunity to connect with the human stories behind the war and understand their lasting impact.
What I really appreciate about this experience is Perrine’s passion and her knack for weaving stories from the sites into a narrative that feels personal and genuine. The inclusion of free tastings of local products adds a charming touch, making the day feel more alive and rooted in the region’s culture. Plus, visiting confidential sites and lesser-known battlefields promises a more authentic look at history, away from crowded tourist spots—something serious history lovers will enjoy.
However, a consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own vehicle or coach. Also, since the tour is 7 hours long, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. If you’re looking for a deeply immersive experience with fewer stops or a more flexible schedule, this might not be ideal.
This tour offers a balanced mix of guided storytelling, site visits, and local flavor—ideal for travelers eager to learn about WWI history in a meaningful way while enjoying the scenic Somme region.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic sites and stories: Perrine guides you through both well-known memorials and confidential sites, offering a more intimate experience.
- Local tastes: The included free tasting of regional products adds a tasteful touch to the day.
- Flexible group size: The fixed price applies to groups up to 40, making it good value as groups grow larger.
- Educational and human focus: Anecdotes and human stories help bring the history to life.
- Comfortable, full-day itinerary: Seven hours covering five major stops with some scenic views in between.
- No included transportation: You must arrange your own transport to and from Albert, which might be a consideration for some travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Albert.
Exploring the Somme Battlefields with Perrine: A Detailed Review
The Starting Point and First Impressions
Your day begins at Place Emile Leturcq in Albert, a small town that acts as the perfect launching pad for this historical journey. Perrine, your guide, will be waiting near the “Caisse d’épargne” bank with a sign bearing her company logo. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, and there’s ample parking, so arriving by car or coach should be hassle-free.
The initial part of the tour sets an anticipatory tone. Perrine’s warm welcome and her passion for the history of the Somme are immediately apparent. She gently prepares you for what’s ahead—an emotionally impactful day filled with stories of sacrifice, resilience, and human strength.
The Lochnagar Crater: A Powerful First Stop
The first major stop is the Lochnagar crater, an astonishing remnant of one of the most powerful explosions of WWI. The guided 30-minute visit here is a deep breath of history—this massive crater, created by a mine explosion, is visually impressive and symbolically potent. Perrine explains how this crater was part of a larger plan that involved tunneling under enemy lines, and you’ll get a sense of the scale of wartime engineering.
Visitors often comment on how humbling it is to stand at the edge of such a vast scar in the earth. It’s a reminder of the destructive power unleashed here, and Perrine’s storytelling brings that power into perspective.
Thiepval Memorial: A Monument to Sacrifice
Next, you’ll visit the Thiepval Franco-British memorial, arguably one of the most iconic sites. Spending about an hour here, Perrine guides you through the names carved into stone and narrates stories of soldiers whose identities are forever etched into the memorial.
The viewing platform offers sweeping vistas over the battlefield, and Perrine’s anecdotes help bring to life the stories behind the names. This site is a poignant reminder of the immense loss of life during the Battle of the Somme, and her ability to balance somber reflection with engaging storytelling makes this stop deeply meaningful.
Beaumont-Hamel: Walking Through History
A visit to Beaumont-Hamel follows, where Perrine guides you through the remnants of the battlefield, explaining the strategic importance of this location. The guided tour here lasts about an hour and provides insight into the military tactics of the time, as well as personal stories of soldiers involved. The landscape itself is dotted with trenches and craters, giving a tangible sense of the war’s brutality.
Lunch Break and Local Flavors
Midday, you’ll have a 1.5-hour break at a local restaurant, which is a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy regional cuisine. It adds a nice balance to the day, letting you digest what you’ve seen and discussed. Many reviews appreciate this pause, as it allows for informal conversations and reflection.
The Battlefields and Cemeteries at Bray-sur-Somme
Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to military cemeteries of German, French, and British soldiers at Bray-sur-Somme. Perrine’s guided insights help you understand the diversity of the war’s toll across nationalities. The cemeteries are meticulously maintained, and Perrine points out individual graves or notable memorials, making the experience personal.
Frise Battlefield and Scenic Views
The next stop is the Frise battlefield, where Perrine shares stories of the fierce fighting that took place there. The scenery en route is particularly scenic, with rolling fields and quiet villages providing a peaceful backdrop to a day of intense history.
Final Stop at Albert and Return
The last major visit is back in Albert, where Perrine offers a brief 30-minute walk-through of the town’s war memorials and its connection to the 1914-1918 conflict. The tour ends right back at the starting point, making logistics simple for those arriving by car or coach.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling that humanizes the past. It’s also well suited for travelers who want a structured, full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves. The inclusion of local tastings and scenic views adds layers of enjoyment beyond just visiting war sites.
Given the 7-hour duration and the walking involved, it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of activity, and for individuals with moderate mobility—though wheelchair accessibility is noted. The fixed price for up to 40 people makes it a good value for groups, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.
Who Might Not Find It Ideal?
If you’re seeking a highly flexible schedule or wish to explore museums and exhibits at your own pace, this tour might feel somewhat structured. Also, since transportation isn’t included, those without their own vehicle or coach might need to arrange transport, which adds a layer of planning.
The Cost and the Value
At $660 for a group of up to 40, the price breaks down to roughly $16-17 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided nature, site access, and local tastings. The value is in the depth of storytelling, the access to lesser-known sites, and the authentic experience Perrine provides. For those passionate about WWI history or wanting a meaningful day in the Somme, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Perrine’s Somme battlefield tour offers a balanced, respectful, and engaging way to explore one of the most pivotal regions of WWI. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in human stories, battlefield archaeology, and regional culture. The combination of guided storytelling, scenic drives, and local tastings makes it a full, memorable day.
This experience is a solid choice if you want to go beyond guidebook summaries and connect with the history through personal stories and quieter, confidential sites. Just remember to coordinate your transport and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to walk and stand quite a bit.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour price? No, transportation is not included. You can join the tour in your own vehicle or coach.
What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability.
Are the sites accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for travelers with mobility needs.
What is included in the price? You get an English-speaking guide and free tastings of local products.
Are meals included? No, meals and beverages are not included. There is a 1.5-hour break for you to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Taking a day with Perrine to explore the Somme battlefields offers a respectful, insightful, and heartfelt look into history. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of WWI’s human stories while enjoying regional flavors and scenic views. Whether you’re a history lover or simply curious about this pivotal chapter, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging experience.