Short-haul incentive programs have never been greener, with the golden age of rail travel inspiring ever more attractive packages for CSR demands. Departing from Kings Cross St Pancras station in London, Eurostar trains are still the preferred mode of transport to the Continent for many. Their Tread Lightly program and green credentials mean not only are you saving carbon miles by not flying, but actively supporting a provider that strives to reduce 80% of their waste and cut 25% of their business emissions.

On the northern borders of France, Lille is having a renaissance as a key French incentive program destination, with travel time at just one hour and twenty minutes from London. Right in the centre of Lille, the Hermitage Gantois is a 5 star heritage property that is perfect for immersing your guests straight into the heart of French history. Combining 72 rooms with meeting space for up to 200 people, the hotel consists of fifteenth century original buildings, coupled with a glass atrium and modern lobby area. Once here, delegates need very little transportation throughout their incentive program, as the old town is compact and easy to access on foot.

If modernity is preferred, the new Hotels Barrière 5 star property boasts a casino, 1,200-seat theatre and a year-round program of shows. Ideal for the larger incentive program, guests can stay here and experience exclusive group sizes for tours, a visit to the second-largest art gallery in France or day trips to battlefields, beaches and country towns.

If a smaller, more intimate incentive program is required, consider taking a Eurostar to Bruges. Known as the ‘Venice of the North’ Bruges is a picturesque town for a short trip that allows participants to feel lost in another time. TGV trains connect in Brussels for a total journey time of just 3 hours and twenty-five minutes from London. Standout accommodation options include the Kempinski Duke’s Palace, a 500-year old palace that has been lovingly restored to offer luxurious stays in utterly unique surrounds. Choose one of the individually-named Palace Suites to make your incentive program guests feel like kings or queens, with listed features, deep bathtubs and opulent décor, they may never want to leave! Medieval Bruges is a UNESCO Heritage site and offers wonderful activities for small groups to try, particularly in artisan fields like chocolate-making, antique lace production and Jenever tasting, before wandering the cobbled streets or enjoying a gliding canal boat tour. Cars and coaches aren’t necessary with walking, boat transfers and horse and carriage rides far more popular and eco-friendly modes of sightseeing.