Casino de Boulogne-sur-Mer

A sub-prefecture of the department of Pas-de-Calais on the Cote d’Opale, is the city of Boulogne-sur-Mer (or simply Boulogne). It’s the country’s largest fishing port, most notably for herring, but you’ll still enjoy a broad array of seafood dishes here. A couple noteworthy attractions in the city are the 12th-century belfry (a World Heritage site) and Nausicaa, a marine conversation area, a great place to bring the family and check out assorted marine fauna. After visiting assorted attractions, head over to the casino for a bit of R and R during an afternoon session of slots and cards.

Gaming

The casino opened its doors in 2008 and is located near the marina and is 5 minutes from downtown. The casino offers a selection of classic and video slot machines coming in various denominations. The big draw here though is the poker. Their poker room runs Mondays and Tuesdays 1 pm to 8 pm, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 3 pm until 8 pm, and Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays, 3:30 pm until 8 pm. Ask staff if you’re interested in organizing your own seminars to become versed in playing Texas Hold’em Poker. The casino also has a restaurant and lounge-style bar on site.

Hotel/Accommodations

There are no hotels on site. Less than ½ a kilometre from the casino you can find the Hotel London. Located in the city centre and 5 minutes from the harbour, railway station, the marine conservation centre and shopping, the hotel provides easy access to noteworthy attractions. They offer 20 rooms equipped with satellite tv and wireless internet access. Head to the hotel’s breakfast room each morning before beginning your day touring the city.

Dining

For light eats, order from the snack menu in The Brasserie, open Wednesday to Sunday, up to 11 pm. Dine in ‘As The Square’ Restaurant, with its varied meals, formulaic lunches and children’s menu, open Monday through Thursday, and Sundays, noon until 2:30 pm and then 7 pm to 10 pm. Saturdays and public holidays, evening hours are extended to 11 pm. Try other venues within the city, where you can sample regional cuisine, fine French dining, and assorted seafood dishes (note: herring is quite popular).

Attractions/NightLife

Enjoy drinks in the casino bar or try one of the bars or clubs in the city like Pharaoh Club, Red Bar or the Whiskey Club. A popular venue is the Vole Hole. Visit the castle museum, The Chateau de Boulogne-sur-Mer, housing the 2nd largest collection of Greek artifacts in France. Take the family to the marine conservation centre Nausicaa, with its assorted marine fauna. Religious sites in the city include the Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, dating back to the Great War, the Cathedral Basilica of Notre-Dame, with its 100 m dome, and the Gothic Church of St Nicholas, with its 15th century statues. Other attractions include the 12th century belfry, the oldest building in the upper city, and the Colonne de la Grande Armee, a statue of Napoleon I. When you want to unwind, stroll along the beach or check out quaint shops for a bit of souvenir shopping.

Rewards/Deals

The casino uses the Players Plus programme. Sign up for and obtain your membership then begin collecting points through slots play. Members receive special invitations to concerts and promotions as well as select discounts. Talk to a casino host for further details.