Blaye
Beautifully restored citadel on the banks of the Gironde estuary
The town of Blaye is situated on the right bank of the Gironde estuary. Its major historical feature is its fortified citadel, which along with Fort Médoc and Fort Paté make up a trio of fortresses designed to defend Bordeaux against a river attack.
Together they form the Fortifications of Vauban group classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Remains of the walls of a 12th century castle built by the Counts of Blaye remain visible, curtain walls over 10m thick. The area is also known for its Merlot-based Côte de Blaye appellation wines.
Jump to
History & Culture in Blaye
The town of Blaye has been a port since ancient times, being responsible for the export of produce such as grain and red wine. As the town is situated slightly higher on the east side of the estuary its strategic importance was quickly recognised by the Romans, and then later on during the wars against the English, who actually burned down the citadel in 1352. It was again to become important during the French Wars of Religion.
The town was formerly known as Blaye-et-Sainte-Luce and was only renamed Blaye as recently as June 1961.
Sights & Attractions in Blaye
With the citadel being the obvious attraction in this area, you should also consider taking the ferry across the river to visit Fort Médoc. This was one of the trio of forts that were erected to defend Bordeaux against attacks via the estuary.
Sights in Blaye
See all Sights in Blaye-
Citadel of Blaye, Blaye
The fortified citadel at Blaye, standing on the opposite bank of the river Gironde to Fort Médoc, forms, along with Fort Paté, the region's 17th-century defence against river attack.
Beaches in Blaye
Beaches in Bordeaux
See all Beaches in Bordeaux-
Hourtin Lakeside Beach, Hourtin
A protected natural reserve with wild marshes, sand dunes and pine forests, this huge body of water is perfect for outdoor activities such as sailing, swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, canoeing, fishing, kite surfing, paddle boarding, or walking and biking along the trails and cycle paths that line the shores of the lake.
-
Hourtin Plage Beach, Hourtin
Just 12km away from the town of Hourtin, the beach of Hourtin Plage sits on the Atlantic ocean and offers a wide range of watersports for all levels.
-
Carcans Plage Beach, Carcans
Backed by the small town of Carcans Océan, this white sand beach on the western Atlantic coast is a popular surf spot.
-
Lacanau Ocean Beach, Lacanau
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.
-
La Plage Le Porge Oceane Beach, Le Porge
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.
-
Soulac-sur-Mer Beaches
The beaches extend to 7km of fine-sand beaches along the Atlantic coast; Centre Beach, South Beach and Amelie Beach making up the most popular and closest to the town.
Events in Blaye
Each spring, the wonderful event Printemps des Vins is held within the Citadel of Blaye. It consists of numerous events and wine tastings, and brings together winegrowers, tourists and locals for this fun event.
Every Wednesday and Saturday the citadel hosts a market where visitors can buy local produce, including the renowned asparagus of Blayais.
The soil in the Blaye region is particularly good for growing asparagus, as well as grapes of course! March to May is prime asparagus season and definitely the best time to make your purchase.
Seafood from the Gironde estuary is also common and very fresh, but the area is also known for its delicious selection of fruit and pralines.
Events in Blaye
See all Events in Blaye-
Printemps des Vins de Blaye
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.
Things to do in Blaye
Taking a walk around the citadel is probably the best way to experience it, it is free to enter and you can easily wile away a few hours enjoying the serene calm, beautiful views and lush landscapes around you. It is also possible to get a guided tour of the citadel which lets your explore the underground passages. Further information and booking are available at the Blaye tourist office.
If you're not keen to walk around, there is a fantastic small tourist train that can give you a guided tour.
Things To Do in Blaye
See all Things To Do in Blaye-
Tourist Train, Blaye
Offering guided tours to allow you explore the heritage and history of the Blaye area.
Hiking in Blaye
Walking Routes in Bordeaux
See all Walking Routes in Bordeaux-
River Garonne Quay Tour
A short, flat walk around the heart of Bordeaux. This route takes in many historical and cultural buildings that are well worth stopping at along the way.
Watersports in Blaye
Watersports in Bordeaux
See all Watersports in Bordeaux-
Magic Surf School, Lacanau
Each session is tailored to the requirements of the participants.
-
So Nice Surf School, Le Porge
Whether it's your first time on a board or you've been surfing for years, So Nice Surf School will give you the guidance you need to get started or to improve your tricks in a cool, laid-back atmosphere.
-
Estuaire Jet Ski, Le Verdon sur Mer
You will be able to hire and learn how to drive a jet ski, with the assistance of qualified instructors, you can be on the water within 15 minutes.
Families in Blaye
Where to stay in Blaye
Although it's not possible to stay within the citadel itself there is of accommodation is within the town of Blaye, a lot of which is in beautiful 18th century buildings.
Villas in Blaye
Villas in Bordeaux
See all Villas in Bordeaux-
Marie Villa
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.
Price: £1,856
-
Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.
-
Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Large and pleasant independent villa of 160m2 situated in the pine forest(enclosed garden) 800 metres from the beach, 1 km from shopping, 2.5 km from the golf and 5 km from the lake.
-
Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Close to city centre this villa is located 600 metres from the beach and shopping area and 3 km from the golf.
-
Canon Villa, Lege-Cap-Ferret
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.
-
Gaume Villa, Pyla-sur-Mer
Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.
Hotels in Blaye
Hotels in Blaye
See all Hotels in Blaye-
La Maison De Jean, Saint-Androny
The Chateau Haut Bourcier is a family-owned 38 ha of vineyards. The Maison de Jean is a house from the 19th century with 5 refurbished bedrooms offering all of the charm of the historic building with modern facilities.
Campsites in Blaye
Property For Sale in Blaye
Property for Sale in Blaye
See all Property for Sale in Blaye-
Residentiel Villa For Sale - Ref.12765, Blaye
This house/villa of 121 m2, built in 2005, with a land size of 815 m2 contains 5 rooms including 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 1 toilet.
Price: €207,000
-
Calme Villa For Sale - Ref.14118, Blaye
This house/villa of 237 m2, built in 1750, on 2 levels, with a land size of 2075 m2 contains 7 rooms including 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 shower room and 4 toilets.
Price: €362,250
-
Architect Villa For Sale - Ref.14594, Blaye
This house/villa (architect house) of 130 m2, with a land size of 5000 m2 contains 4 rooms including 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 2 toilets.
Price: €299,500