Soulac-sur-Mer

The magnificent UNESCO listed church is nestled in a quiet spot, close to the coastal sand dunes. Its history dates back to the 1st century AD and a saint named Veronique. 

There are several museums in the local area, showing the history of this part of the Medoc, from ancient times, through to WWII and today.

This is a great family resort with around 7km of white sandy beaches backed with pine forests and sand dunes. Three of the main beaches have lifeguards on patrol so you can be assured of safety if you are with young children. Although as with any of the Atlantic Ocean beaches you need to be careful of the waves and strong undertow.

There is a daily farmers market in Soulac, that sells everything you might need to experience a wonderful local meal with local produce. In the summer months of July and August the market is also on in the evenings.

The easiest way to see the coast, the forest and around the town is to make use of the two small tourist trains. One of them does circuits around the streets of the town, a great way to keep children entertained! And the other will take you on a journey up the coast, through the pine forests and to the most northerly point La Pointe de Grave.

Although not a large town by any means there are several good places to stay, including the boutique, slightly quirky and rather unique hotel, Au Clair de Labulle and the modern B&B that has spectacular views over the coast, Le Lys des Sables.