The Gironde, the city, the vineyards & the coast
Surrounded by some of the world's most famous vineyards and France's second largest Atlantic port, Bordeaux is an elegant city with stunning 18th century architecture, tree lined boulevards and a culturally vibrant centre to rival even Paris.
With a history that is embroiled in the Romans, the fight with the English in the Hundred Years War, the wine trade and numerous Chateaux with stories of scandal between Royalty and the nobility, the Bordeaux region is one that is worth exploring. The city itself is beautiful, offering an outstanding architectural heritage and packed full of art galleries, excellent food, good shopping and wide boulevards which are largely pedestrianised.
Situated within the French Department of the Gironde, where the mouths of the rivers Garonne and Dordogne merge, Bordeaux and its wine region stretch from Soulac-sur-Mer and the Medoc in the north to the vineyards of Graves and Cerons in the south. The Cote d'Argent, Europe's longest beach, forms the coastline to the west and attracts many surfers to the Lacanau area and the coastal resorts of Arcachon, Pyla and Cap Ferret. Whilst to the east of the Department lie the vineyards of the Saint Emilion region that lead into the Dordogne.
This hilly region between the city of Bordeaux and the Saint Emilion wine region is named Entre-Deux-Mer (between two seas) because of its location between the two tidal rivers of the Garonne and the Dordogne. One of the most attractive regions in the area, Entre-Deux-Mers is scattered with ruined abbeys, attractive villages and expanses of vineyards. It was also home to the author François Mauriac and the artist Toulouse-Lautrec.
The city of Bordeaux houses a population of nearly 245,000 in 8 quartiers, which increases to nearly a quarter of a million if you include the population of the surrounding urban communities, the 27 communes of Bordeaux. It is often seen as a more reserved city, compared at least to its southern counterparts of Marseille and Nice, and the local 'Bordelais' can appear somewhat detached with their smart attire and strict observation of social rules and etiquette, but this increasingly cosmopolitan city is fast becoming a friendly and welcoming destination.
Many of the annual events in the Bordeaux and the Girdonde region revolve around wine. The Spring fairs and the Autumn harvest festivals are often dedicated to the local produce - wine, truffles and the infamous Foie Gras.
But be rest assured this historical region also celebrates the arts and offers a wide range of musical and theatrical events throughout the year.
Read our guide to Bordeaux markets page to find out which market to visit when. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a typical French market is an absolute must for anyone exploring everything French.
With around 80 winegrowers from the appellation of Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux opening their doors and their bottles for visitors to come and taste their wines in a wonderful atmosphere.
The Long Night of Museums is an annual event where museums across Europe remain open late into the night, and Bordeaux is no exception.
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
Exceptional locations around France, including Bordeaux, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
With a history dating back to prehistoric times there are troglodyte caves, ancient ruins, Roman fortress, Chateaux and walled towns. the area was invaded by many different clans and nations over the years and has been ruled by several of them for sustained periods of time. The influence of the Celts, Romans and the English is still obvious today.
The history of the many towns, villages, vineyards and chateaux of the area make this a wonderful destination to explore. From art to agriculture there are a vast number of museums and galleries to wander through, as well as stately homes, well kept gardens, memorials and monuments.
Flanking the Cathédrale Saint-André, this tower (and the square in which it sits) is named after the Archbishop Pey-Berland.
Located in the centre of Bordeaux, this museum features paintings and sculptures by some of the best European artists, from the Renaissance to the 20th century.
This excellent museum recounts the history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region from prehistoric times through to the 20th century.
Sitting on the stunning Place de la Bourse, the museum of customs is located in the former customs house and presents the history of the customs administration.
Housed in the 18th century Hôtel de Lalande, the museum of decorative arts has a collection of sculptures, ceramics, glass and silverware in its panelled rooms.
This medieval city gate commemorates the French victory in the battle of Fornovo in Italy.
The region is bordered on the west by the Atlantic Ocean and Europe's longest stretch of golden sand. Making the beaches perfect for all kinds of sports and, weather dependant, some sunbathing. Watersports are particularly popular with Lacanau being one of France's most popular surf spots.
A small, peaceful and tranquil beach that is situated at the entrance to the marina and is the most sheltered of all the beaches around Arcachon due to its location within the basin.
An 800m strip of white sand situated between the Theirs and Eyrac piers this beach is very much in the Arcachon basin and sheltered from the strong Altlantic winds on the coast.
Le Porge beach is also known for its large waves and strong undertow, even if the rescuers are not far away, you must remain cautious as you would for many of the ocean beaches.
Beach Grand Crohot Lege is accessible by walkways throughout the year, and is supervised by lifeguards from mid June to mid September.
This is by far the largest and better known of the Arcachon beaches, stretching some 3km in length with wonderful views over to the chic town of Cap-Ferret and the peninsula beaches.
Over time, the wind and ocean currents have gradually created a wall of sand dunes, behind which streams and rivers have allowed the formation of lakes and freshwater ponds.
Known for it's great restaurants, the city of Bordeaux has a whole host of offerings for the foodies out there. From Michelin star luxury, to the smallest traditional clam shack the region has an abundance of fresh produce, seafood being at the heart of many dishes. But fear not, the vegans, vegetarians, pescetarians, lactose and wheat intolerant are all well cared for too as this cosmopolitan city has an extensive choice of eateries.
Situated in the luxurious surroundings of Le Grand Hotel de Bordeaux, this restaurant offers diners an elegant yet intimate restaurant styled in a palette of mauve and orange with a handcrafted marquetry floor.
Chef Nicolas Masse offers in this restaurant a combination of traditional French cuisine, made with fresh seasonal ingredients from the southwest sourced from local producers, with unusual influences from all around the world. His creations can be paired with a large selection of wines, by the counsel of head sommelier Aurélien Farouil.
This classic French restaurant serves traditional dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It is located among the vineyards of the Médoc region, in a pleasant park with pine trees.
Located in the centre of Bordeaux, this elegant restaurant offers an original menu full of classic French dishes with contemporary touches. The warm dining room is dominated by a beautiful fireplace where the chef cooks some of his creations.
Offering both cold and hot Japanese dishes, this small restaurant also serves a tasting menu.
This restaurant serves chef David Grangier's contemporary twist on French cuisine, creating interesting combinations of flavours. Offering a lovely warm ambiance, its atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for couples.
A diverse music programming that showcases some of the best local and national talent in jazz, music of the World, blues and many other expressions.
One of the best places to taste wines from the Bordeaux region. Located on the ground floor of the headquarters of the Conseil Interprofessionel du Vin de Bordeaux, the bar's team is very knowledgeable and passionate. They give tasting advice, extensive information on the grapes and suggestions for matching food and wine.
Situated at the foot of the historical Porte Cailhau, this bar has a list of more than 100 wines. They are focused on international products as well as some lesser-known wines from Bordeaux.
Centrally located, this bar offers a large selection of wines, especially French but also from other parts of the world. Customers can taste them through a self-service method, and they can be accompanied by regional delicatessen.
This bar has an old-fashioned decoration that creates a very warm atmosphere. Their wine list includes many French references, as well as from other parts of the world. They can be enjoyed in their cosy interior or the patio, accompanied by selections of local delicatessen.
From the long white sand beaches of the west coast to the rolling hills and vineyards of the north and eastern areas of Bordeaux you will not be short of things to do or to see in this area. Each town or village hosts its own market and is steeped in history making each one a gem of a place to visit.
With over 1000 animals to meet, from around 75 different species, from the very smallest, all the way up to the largest breeding camels in France.
Created in 1989, the Golf du Médoc offers 2 remarkable 18-hole courses: Les Châteaux and Les Vignes.
As it passes through the oldest parts of Bordeaux, making the most of the landscape, the train takes you past the most famous places and monuments of the city.
Take in Bordeaux’s historic landmarks and modern highlights on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour with panoramic views and audio commentary for all ages.
Designed as a public green space in the 19th-century, this 28-hectare historical park is home to around 3000 trees, 1000 of which are more than a century old.
With a varied and interesting mix of wildlife, you can learn about the animals, conservation and about the zoo's research projects, whilst walking amidst the enclosures.
Excellent wines and delicious food are synonymous with South West France and so it is with great pleasure that they include Villa Marie in their portfolio, where gastronomic delights are to be found on the doorstep: the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte are just 1.3km away (a 20 minute walk), with the restaurants of the renowned spa hotel, Les Sources de Caudalie, a few 100 metres further along. Equally enticing is the proximity of the region’s capital, Bordeaux. Easily accessible by both car and public transport, visits to this wonderful city will become an integral part of the holiday.
Beautiful villa of 300m2 living space located on the heights of the Canon in the heart of Cap Ferret with a nice view of Arcachon Bay.
Excellent wines and delicious food are synonymous with South West France and so it is with great pleasure that they include Villa Marie in their portfolio, where gastronomic delights are to be found on the doorstep: the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte are just 1.3km away (a 20 minute walk), with the restaurants of the renowned spa hotel, Les Sources de Caudalie, a few 100 metres further along. Equally enticing is the proximity of the region’s capital, Bordeaux. Easily accessible by both car and public transport, visits to this wonderful city will become an integral part of the holiday.
Beautiful villa of 300m2 living space located on the heights of the Canon in the heart of Cap Ferret with a nice view of Arcachon Bay.
A new, sophisticated, relaxed 5 stars refuge has opened in the heart of Bordeaux, where your well-being and comfort are the priority.
Les Sources de Caudalie, located among the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a Graves great growth, was established in 1999. Between vineyards and forests, at only 20 minutes from Bordeaux centre, the architect Yves Collet created from scratch contemporary buildings from recycled local materials in tune with the surroundings.
You can either stay in one of the comfortable tree-houses in the forest canapé 9 metres off the ground. Or one of the cosy bubbles which in a unique modern form of logging in your own little private clearing in the woods.
Located in the heart of Bordeaux, the Burdigala Hotel was completely refurbished in summer 2011, and its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere provides a welcome sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This rural chateau set in the heart of the Bordeaux vines. With a passionate, attentive team running this working French country estate. Most bookings are for the chateau as a whole, group holidays, birthdays, parties and weddings. Or you can book just a room and join in the party.
This exclusive country estate offers 8 bedrooms, all ensuite. 4 of which still retain their original marble fire places. All rooms have breathtaking views of either the ocean or the pine forest.
You can either stay in one of the comfortable tree-houses in the forest canapé 9 metres off the ground. Or one of the cosy bubbles which in a unique modern form of logging in your own little private clearing in the woods.
This rural chateau set in the heart of the Bordeaux vines. With a passionate, attentive team running this working French country estate. Most bookings are for the chateau as a whole, group holidays, birthdays, parties and weddings. Or you can book just a room and join in the party.
This exclusive country estate offers 8 bedrooms, all ensuite. 4 of which still retain their original marble fire places. All rooms have breathtaking views of either the ocean or the pine forest.
Right in the centre of Bordeaux, you'll find Mama Shelter on Place Saint Christoly, not far from the Mollat bookshop and the town hall. Barely 10 minutes from the Saint Jean railway station and 30 minutes from the airport, in the blink of an eye you can find yourself in this other world bordered by the Garonne river.
In 2007 the Chateau was completely refurbished by its owners, the traditional feeling was maintained whilst modernising all the rooms.
In the heart of the vineyards of Bordeaux, half an hour from Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion, or also one hour and half from the Arcachon Bay, Clos Marcamps welcomes you in a chartreuse of the 19th century, entirely renovated with the charm and the comfort of today.
