Hotel Cargo, an ode to the world of navigation

It's one of Dunkirk's best-kept secrets... You'd imagine Dunkirk to be grey and gloomy, but what you discover is a shimmering city full of positive energy. The proof is in its two contemporary art centers - the Frac and the Laac, which host an increasing number of exhibitions and large-scale events - the beauty of its port, home to the three-masted schooner Duchesse Anne (France's largest sailboat open to visitors) and the historic Citadelle district, which is currently undergoing a complete transformation. In the heart of its alleyways lies another nugget, the boutique-hotel Cargo, which has just been restored and is already attracting a loyal following of guests, seduced by the singular charm and conviviality of the place. The credit goes first and foremost to the decor, which is entirely dedicated to the history of the city and the world of navigation. Spread over six floors, with waterlines in the corridors to serve as a landmark for travelers, the 49 rooms share the same inspiration - gradations of blue océan and nods to maritime signals, waxed woods that look as if they've come straight out of a sailboat cabin, and misappropriated objects such as canteens transformed into wardrobes or storm lamps.

Decorated in the same spirit, the coffee shop is now one of Dunkirk's most popular spots. Locals and travelers alike meet all day long in this space bathed in the sumptuous northern light thanks to large bay windows. Guests sit down at long tables to enjoy a tasty breakfast featuring breads and viennoiseries, cheeses and charcuterie from the finest local producers. You can then take a seat in the coworking space (Mywo Lib) to advance a file or start a meeting (impeccable wifi connection) and enjoy the sweet and savoury delights on offer (homemade pastries, salads and tartars).freshly baked pastries, salads and pies) before joining one of the banquettes at afterwork time to enjoy craft beers, organic wines or cocktails prepared by the barman. The more sporty ones join the bar later in the evening, after discovering the nearby Malo-les-Bains district with its dapper cabins, promenade and beach, where joggers, sand yachts and kitesurfers meet.

Three questions for Stéphanie Binaux, Hôtel Cargo manager

Gault&Millau: As a native of Dunkirk, you know the city well. What's new about this hotel?

Stéphanie Binaux: The Cargo is Dunkirk's first boutique hotel, a warm and intimate place with personalized service that caters for a wide range of clientele - business people during the week and families at weekends, not to mention the locals who come here for a drink and to make the most of our workspaces. Interior designer Éloïse Bosredon, in charge of the project, worked particularly hard to create a cosy, convivial atmosphere, in the spirit of the Best Western Plus collection in Paris.spirit of the Best Western Plus collection to which we belong, which brings together 4-star hotels with singular charm and excellent value for money.

The hotel has the Clef Verte label. What are your requirements in terms of ecology?

S.B.: We're committed to an eco-responsible approach that includes waste sorting, reduced water and electricity consumption, no more individual packaging... We meet all the criteria that have enabled us to obtain this very demanding international label (Green Key).We meet all the criteria that enabled us to obtain this very demanding international label (Green Key), which also insists on raising awareness of this environmental commitment among our staff and guests.

Is the coffee shop also committed to a local approach?

S. B.: Indeed, we offer exclusively local products - yoghurts and cheeses from Laits Prairies du Boulonnais, eggs and ham straight from the Dunkirk market, and fruit and vegetables from early harvesters who work on the coast. Even our beverages are mostly local, like the northern beers from Brasserie de Saint-Omer, or the Flemish Raoul from Brasserie Goudale.

This article is taken from the Hauts-de-France 2025 guide. You can find it in bookshops or in our online store.