Bordeaux is a city that has come into its own in recent years. The pleasures of the past are still here to be sampled – this is wine country, after all – but there has been a number of new developments too, both in terms of architecture, transport and business. It all adds to the sense of an exciting city that is still set on surprising visitors.
View to a vintage
As soon as you mention Bordeaux it conjures up images of vineyards alongside rolling hills and that certainly holds true. The area is known for creating some of the best wine in the world, so a chance to explore the area can’t be missed.
Take a scenic drive across the region and arrive at Chateau Pontet Canet, one of the largest wine estates in the country. The vineyards are picturesque and embrace organic growing methods.
Les Sources de Caudalie is also within easy reach. It’s less wine estate and more wine resort – you’ll find a beautiful hotel and spa on the grounds.
An architectural spectacle
Bordeaux is simply a stunning city in itself. One of the most iconic attractions has to be Place de la Bourse, a square that epitomizes Gallic elegance. The expansive square is dominated by the Palais de la Bourse and now features the Mirroir d’eau - a reflecting pool (the world’s largest) that creates a spellbinding sight that will stay with you long after you leave. Vapour is fired into the square every 23 minutes to add to the spectacle.
It’s of a piece with La Cité du Vin, an upturned wine decanter that also plays with light and catches the sun – an essential visit for oenophiles. You should also make time for a building of a decidedly older vintage, the Cathedrale St. Andre. Largely from the 13th and 14th centuries, the city’s church does have 11th century elements and brilliant gargoyles gazing down upon the city.
Bordeaux’s beautiful beaches
Of course, a visit to the port city of Bordeaux wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach, and this part of France has stunning beaches in plentiful supply.
Leave the city on the A63 and travel around one hour to arrive on the coast in Arcachon - a popular seaside town with soft, sandy beaches and crystal clear water, famed for oyster-harvesting. Spend the day wandering through the town with its retro architecture or take a helicopter tour for a truly iconic view.
If you want to venture a little further, the coastal city of La Rochelle can be reached via the A10. As well as more beaches, you’ll also find a whole host of different attractions to enjoy in the city, such as Aquarium La Rochelle, a large aquarium with a whole host of sea life that will be sure to entertain the children.
With car hire in Bordeaux, there’s no limit to what you can discover in this corner of France, weaving past the vineyards to make your trip truly memorable.
