Facing the English coast, the Gris-Nez cape (Grey Nose Cape) marks the passage from the Channel to the North Sea. Offering both diverse scenery and historic places of interest, the Pas-de-Calais is renowned for its elegant seaside resorts and its long sandy beaches on the Opal Coast, where both relaxation and sports activities are catered for. The Pas-de-Calais also boasts designated Cities of Art and History, such as Boulogne-sur-Mer and its fortified upper town of Saint-Omer with its Gothic cathedral, and Arras and its two magnificent squares.