Northwest of Bordeaux, the Médoc region sits on the left bank of Gironde estuary
Huge amounts of the region are covered in vines, growing the grapes which produce some of Bordeaux's finest wines. across around 1,500 vineyards.
Its porous soil creates the right conditions for grape ripening. Although its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean results in a comparatively mild climate and high rainfall (which makes rot a constant problem), the increased amount of gravel in the soil allows heat to be retained, encouraging ripening, and extensive root systems.
This relatively flat region also has many pine forests. The main reason to visit is to stay in one of the pretty villages and explore the world-renowned wine châteaux. The town in the heart of the region, Lesparre-Medoc does not offer much so it is best to venture elsewhere.
The best towns to visit include the estuary towns of Pauillac, Margaux and Blaye and the coastal towns of Soulac-sur-Mer, Hourtin, Carcans and Lacanau.
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.
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.
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.
Backed by the small town of Carcans Océan, this white sand beach on the western Atlantic coast is a popular surf spot.
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.
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.
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.
At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.
From the last week of November and throughout December, Bordeaux holds its great Christmas market in the Allées de Tourny. A festive event and a good place to pick up an original Christmas gift, or see Santa Claus and let him have your list.
The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.
A mass is held where prayers are said for those who have perished at sea, followed by a procession to the Cross of the Sailors. Afterwards, the sea is blessed by the "Sailors of the Women's Committee Fishermen Basin" who throw a crown into the ocean from aboard a lifeboat.
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.
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.
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.
Each session is tailored to the requirements of the participants.
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.
Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.
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.
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.
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.
Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.
The Guest house is a former winery located in the heart of the Medoc peninsula in the village of Vertheuil. In the middle of a 2 hectares landscaped park, the outbuildings have been restored in an old stone style.
The Domaine du Papillon is a guest house right in the heart of the beautiful Medoc between Bordeaux, Montalivet, Pauillac and the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by delightful natural scenery and far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
A hotel with restaurant, Château Beau Jardin, is an elegantly restored manor house from the XIX century set in beautifully landscaped gardens. The charm of the property combined with the warmth of a small hotel will make you feel instantly at home.
