Le Porge

The Roman Catholic cathedral in Bordeaux was originally constructed in the 11th century, though little of this remains today. 

This excellent museum recounts the history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region from prehistoric times through to the 20th century.

The monks originally lived just outside Saint-Emilion, but in 1338 they obtained permission from the Pope to establish a monastery within the walls. The cloister was built in the 14th-century.

This small museum was established in 1975 by local people who wanted to preserve and remember their local heritage and the history of the Medoc / Bordeaux area.

Situated a little inland on the peninsula to protect the building from erosion, it was placed there to monitor and protect the numerous vessels entering the basin from the strong ocean currents.

These limestone caves run under the town of Rauzan and feature an underground river which has had many uses over the last two centuries. 

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.

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.

The Truc Vert ocean beach is accessible by walkways April to October, and supervised by lifeguards from mid June to mid September. In the absence of monitoring an emergency call station is on site.

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.

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.

This elegant and sophisticated two Michelin star restaurant offers creative dishes designed by chef Cédric Béchade, who plays with colours and textures in his cuisine.

Situated in a gorgeous white stone townhouse built in the classical style of the late 19th century, this restaurant is part of the joint project of Bernard Magrez, owner of various wineries in the Bordeaux area, and Pierre Gagnaire.

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 restaurant offers a sizeable assortment of 500 wines, combined with a modern gastronomic offer. Its intimate dining area can accommodate 20 people.

Situated among vineyards, this restaurant offers the gastronomic creations of a new chef for 2017.

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.

Every September, runners gather for the Médoc marathon which winds its way through over 50 vineyards of this special region. 

The Autumn festival in Saint-Emilion celebrates the wine and heritage of this medieval city. The 'Jurade' are the Saint-Emilion wine brotherhood who historically had administrative rights over the town. As part of the festival they parade through the town in their traditional crimson robes, reminiscent of the all-powerful aldermen of centuries past.

The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.

Bringing together music, urban cultures and issues around climate change, this festival aims to bring together people from different sectors of Bordeaux for a truly unique set of events.

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.

Each session is tailored to the requirements of the participants.

Come and experience the ancient art of thousands of years... archery!

Situated in the heart of the forest between the lake and the ocean, the 18 hole Ardilouse ensures a quiet round in some stunning scenery

Situated within the ground of the hotel Relais de Margaux Golf & Spa this beautiful course sits on the banks of the Gironde estuary.

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.

Whatever your age or level of riding, you will be welcome at the equestrian centre to share their passion for horses.

The beautiful building of Chateau Deganne was converted in 1904 into a casino. In the early twentieth century Paris and Bordeaux bourgeoisie came to spend the summer in Arcachon. Thus the town had to create distractions - a casino.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A fine example of the French ‘Maison de Maitre’, La Brugère is an impressive and elegant property, surrounded by a spacious, attractive garden with an eye catching pool area, and only a 5 minute drive from the charming town of Duras, home to cafes, restaurants, and shops. In short, La Brugère is a superb haven for groups of any size to reunite and enjoy a memorable holiday.

Close to city centre this villa is located 600 metres from the beach and shopping area and 3 km from the golf.

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.

Beaches and ocean, forest and lakes meet in perfect harmony in this much sought after area south of Bordeaux, known as ‘Bisca Grands Lacs’. Golden sandy beaches line the Atlantic coast as far as the eye can see, walking and cycling trails criss-cross the tranquil verdant pine forests whilst the three ‘Grands Lacs’ offer that tantalising combination of water sports, beaches and swimming alongside vibrant villages and small marinas.

Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.

Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.

Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.

Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.

Beaches and ocean, forest and lakes meet in perfect harmony in this much sought after area south of Bordeaux, known as ‘Bisca Grands Lacs’. Golden sandy beaches line the Atlantic coast as far as the eye can see, walking and cycling trails criss-cross the tranquil verdant pine forests whilst the three ‘Grands Lacs’ offer that tantalising combination of water sports, beaches and swimming alongside vibrant villages and small marinas.

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.

Located in south of Lacanau-Ocean this apartment with nice sea view, terrace and garden furnitures is close to the beach and shops.

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.

The majestic hall of the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa designed by Jacques Garcia is impressive. Marble, Bordeaux stone, warm-tone fabrics (plum, mauve, deep red), 18th century-inspired furnishings, original floral creations: an invitation to peace and tranquillity.

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.

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.

L'Estanquet has the main house with bespoke bedrooms and a newly converted barn. Situated between the pine forest of Les Landes and the Atlantic Ocean it is perfect place for you to stop and immediately rest & relax. Biscarrosse lake is a stones throw away & sandy beaches lead into the freshwater lake.

In the shade of the wisteria, La Maison du Bassin offers its guests a complete change of scene and the charm of a family home. An ocean paradise, where nothing seems to have changed since the beginning of time.

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.

Near Langon, in a privileged environment and a fabulous 360o view, this beautiful Chartreuse 550 m2 is in the middle of 10ha42 of which 7ha are AOC Bordeaux vines.

Built on a 1136m2 plot, this villa consists of 3 levels offering 450m2 living space and has several terraces with views.

This 15th and 19th century chateau is perched on a rocky outcrop and overlooks the surrounding countryside and has been entirely renovated.

Owned in the same family for several generations and with a history of excellent wine making including, Bordeaux red, white and rose as well as sweet white wines.

This house/villa of 200 m2, built in 1975, on 2 levels, with a land size of 1227 m2 contains 7 rooms including 6 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room and 2 toilets.

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.