Aquitaine Holiday Guide
The Aquitaine region is most famous for its beaches and wine, though it also has an abundance of bastides, chateaux, mountains and countryside. It was named by the Romans who were impressed at the many rivers running through the land.
The crashing waves that fall on Aquitaine’s Atlantic coast makes it one of the finest surfing locations in the world, attracting many professional competitors to Lacanau, Hossegor and Biarritz. This probably isn’t the best place to have a relaxing swim! However, there are plenty of opportunities to try out some water sports. What’s more, skiing is only a short distance away in the Pyrenees, which also caters for hikers, as do the gentle Landes inclines.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Aquitaine
- The Arachon Lagoon (Bassin d’Arachon)
Situated in the Gironde department on the west coast is the Arachon Lagoon. It’s a protected area of outstanding beauty with various attractions including stunning beaches, seaside resorts, a large bird sanctuary and the Dune du Pilat, the largest sand dune in Europe.
- Tour of the vineyards of Bordeaux
Some of the World’s most famous wines originate from around Bordeaux and many of the wine-producers in the area offer tasting sessions and guided tours. There are also some museums dedicated to wine-making. Head to the Maison du Vin and the tourist office in Bordeaux for information of tours and tastings.
- Visit the peaks, vines and orchards of Le Béarn
The Pyrenees Mountains stretch from the west coast through the south of Aquitaine and into the neighboring Midi-Pyrénées region. The area is known as Béarn country and is home to a massive range of unspoiled countryside.
- The Eyrignac Gardens
Sitauted in the Dordogne and reputed as one of the finest gardens in France, the Jardins d’Eyrignac is a superb example of an 18th Century formal garden. Most of the garden comprises of bushes, trees and hedges. The gardens are laid out over four hectares and there is a good restaurant.
- National Museum of Prehistory, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac
The whole area around Les Eyzies is steeped in evidence of prehistory. There are a number of ‘grottes’ to visit (caves), many of which have superb prehistoric drawings and paintings. The Musée Nationale de Préhistoire is installed in the castle and boasts an exceptional collection of artifacts and information.
Top 5 Towns and Cities in Aquitaine
- Bordeaux
Bordeaux, with a population of just over half a million inhabitants, is considered to be the most important port in the whole of Europe. It is perhaps better known, however, for its neoclassical architecture and spacious town centre, complete with wide avenues and well looked after parks. Bordeaux has preserved its 18th Century atmosphere, slightly livened up by the presence of 60,000 students. There are a wide variety of fantastic museums to keep you occupied, as well as all the mod cons you'd expect from such a large city.
- Sarlat-la-Canéda
It’s always a point for discussion, of course, but there are a great many people who would uphold Sarlat la Canéda's claim to be the most beautiful mediaeval town in France. Certainly the town is one of France's best loved and most visited, and set in the ever popular Dordogne to boot! Two “A list” films have also been set here, which helps to prove the point that Sarlat has something a little special to offer in the charm and atmosphere stakes! Although there are not really any major historic sites, such as supremely imposing cathedrals, the overall impact of this beautifully restored town is immense.
- Rocamadour
Set in a gorge overlooking a tributary of the River Dordogne, the impressive and very imposing commune of Rocamadour is renowned as a pilgrimage destination and has a spate of marvelous 12th and 13th Century buildings and monuments. There are some spectacular views from the nearby hamlet of L’Hospitalet.
- Périgueux
On a hill shaped by the curving River Isle, Périgueux's population has reputation for its friendly nature and cheerfulness. You'd probably be the same too if you woke up to such a fantastic setting each morning! The Roman part of the town is known as La Cite. Within this area you will find the Musee du Perigord with its extensive display of local findings. The large Romanesque Cathedrale St-Front was only completed in the 19th Century when the architect Paul Abadie oversaw the restoration and embellishment of the building.
- Pau
Located on the edge of the Pyrenees Mountains, the attractive town of Pau has a distinctly British air to it and a very relaxed atmosphere set by its breathtaking views, spacious and picturesque public parks and pleasant climate. Pau is perched on top of a hill that overlooks the River by the same name below. You can take a gentle stroll down to the lower level or simply use the modern and free lift available, which can be found next to the Chateau in the old town. This is another great place to do some exploring, as there are many medieval and Renaissance buildings arranged in a tight maze.
Food and Drink in Aquitaine
Aquitaine and the Dordogne department in particular, is famous for its poultry dishes and truffles. Goose fat is widely used in cooking in the region in dishes such as cassoulet (a stew with white haricot beans and a mixture of meats). Many dishes also make the most of the region’s fine wine and are cooked, ‘à la bordelaise’ – with a wine sauce. Various cherry, plum and pear tarts and flans are widely made in addition to the traditional chestnut cake (gateau aux châtaignes).
How to get to Aquitaine
Aquitaine is not as easy to get to as many other parts of France, but now a number of cheap airlines have now begun serving the area. There are airports with UK flights in Pau, Bordeaux, Bergerac and Biarritz. TGV services are generally good from Paris.
