Located in one of the world's premier wine producing regions, the Bordeaux area is known for its elegant museums, magnificent chateaux, tranquil vineyards, quaint villages, beautiful beaches and lush green countryside, making it one of France's most popular holiday destinations.
The city, lying on the Garonne River, boasts several famous museums. The Museum of Aquitaine showcases 25,000 years of the history and culture of the Bordeaux region and includes numerous important artifacts. The Musée des Beaux-Arts features a spectacular collection of 17th century paintings by Flemish, Dutch and Italian artists, notably a work by Delacroix. Displaying ever-changing exhibitions of contemporary art, the Musée d'Art Contemporain, built in 1824 as a warehouse for French colonial products, is located in the Entrepots Laine. The principal sight of the city, however, is the magnificent Cathedral StAndre, sections of which were constructed almost 1,000 years ago. While the exterior is in disrepair, the interior is in excellent condition, and the climb up the famous 15th century Tour Pey-Berland belfry is one of the highlights. Near to the city are the region's main attractions, the winemaking areas of the Medoc and St Emilion.
Situated on the Gironde Estuary northwest of Bordeaux, the Medoc hosts hordes of tourists year-round at its famous vineyards, including Haute Medoc and Margaux. The principal wine produced in the area is Cabernet Sauvignon. Take a scenic drive along the D2 and D204 to explore the beauty of the countryside, and tour the renowned Chateau Lafitte Rothschild, Chateau Mouton and St Julien's Chateau Beychevelle. To the south, Margaux boasts the famed Chateau Margaux, while Issan is home to the impressive Chateau Palmer. For a one-stop, taste-all experience, try the Maison du Tourism et du Vin in Pavillic, where you can sample and buy wine from throughout the region.
The charming medieval village of St Emilion, overlooking the Dordogne Valley, similarly features a myriad of vineyards known for their full-bodied reds. The village has more to offer than wine tasting, however. Take in the Eglise Monolithe limestone carvings, the 12th century Collegiale, and the extraordinary view of the Dordogne Valley afforded by the 13th century Castel daou Rey.
The Bordeaux region also has some beautiful beach areas, including the resort of Areachon to the southwest and the western section of the Medoc, where you can enjoy various recreational activities. Seafood lovers can gorge themselves on huge, fresh oysters at Gujan Mestras, which is also home to several natural history exhibits.
Bordeaux International Airport is in Merignac and is served by many major airlines. Shuttle services to the city are frequent and reliable.
More details on Biarritz and the Dordogne region.
For more information, visit www.francetourism.com
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