Bordeaux and its surroundings

Main interests: Wine touring, Landscapes, Food
For children: ★☆☆☆☆
Best season: spring, summer, autumn
                       (avoid August and September/harvest season)
Wine touring: red (Médoc, St Emilion, Pomerol)
                          sweet white (Sauternes)
Easy to combine: 2-hour train from Paris
                               2-hour train from the Loire Valley
                               direct flights to Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Nice
Ideal stay duration: 2 or 3 days

With wine appellations recognised across the globe, Bordeaux is a region that combines wine heritage with cultural and natural appeal. The city itself is worth a visit, with a pedestrian-only historic centre full of markets and local charm – but it is the countryside that truly stands out. In the surrounding vineyards, châteaux with distinct histories share a common dedication to the grape and the terroir. This deep-rooted wine culture is complemented by the region’s excellent local gastronomy, making Bordeaux a destination for both tasting and dining. For those seeking a slower pace, the area also lends itself to quiet nature retreats – whether resting among the vines or exploring the landscape by bike. To complete the picture, nearby Arcachon offers a popular seaside escape, ideal for a day of walking on sand dunes, visiting oyster farms, or cruising on the Bassin.

A personal favourite: a fantastic seafood lunch in Arcachon after a private cruise