Medoc Region
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.
