1. Dynamic and vibrant break in Bordeaux
Chosen as Lonely Planet’s most attractive city in 2017, second on the New York Times’ list of cities to visit in 2016... Over the course of the last ten years, Bordeaux has revealed its rich personality. Boasting exceptional classical and modern architecture, surrounded by the most famous vineyards in the world, and with its superb cuisine, it is a perfect symbol of the French “Art of Living”. Bordeaux also has a lively cultural and artistic scene with plenty of events all year round.
Do not miss: a tour of La Cité du Vin, a great attraction completely dedicated to wine as cultural, universal, and living heritage.
2. Sensorial trip back in time, in the Dordogne Valley
Listed by UNESCO, the Dordogne Valley is one of the world’s largest biosphere reserves. Its unique landscapes with myriad of cliffs dotted with superb castles, prehistoric caves, picturesque listed villages and remarkable gardens, make it an exceptional destination. Located near the Vézère Valley, a visit to the new Lascaux centre takes visitors on a journey 18,000 years back in time to meet history’s first artists.
3. Gourmet spirit and hospitality in Biarritz – Pays Basque
With a strong identity, Biarritz – Pays Basque has it all: the ocean, mountains, the countryside, renowned seaside resorts and authentic villages. Its history and culture make it bold and creative. It is also a gourmet paradise of flavours and chefs. From Bayonne to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, there are numerous quality restaurants, with many Michelin starred establishments. Try its local cuisine and specialties, such as ‘poulet à la basquaise’, Bayonne ham or “brebis” mountain cheese, made from ewe’s milk, served in the traditional manner with black cherry jam.
4. Unforgettable views and the ocean spirit on the Atlantic Coast
With 720 kms of shoreline, the Nouvelle-Aquitaine coast has everything to seduce you: miles of pristine beaches, charming islands, the longest dune ridge - Dune du Pilat - and the largest estuary in Western Europe… It is also the kingdom of sports: you can choose to cycle along the Vélodyssée route to discover the coastline by bike, have a surf session or try a golf course. Do you need a guide? From La Rochelle to Anglet, join us for a memorable trip!
5. Tasting session in the vineyards of Cognac
If Nouvelle-Aquitaine is full of flavors and culinary discoveries, there is one that should not be missed: Cognac! The city will seduce you with the charm of its old streets and major Cognac houses along the river Charente. Set out for a visit through the heart of the vineyards to discover a unique land with exceptional vintages that bear names which evoke richness, intensity and finesse.
Do you feel like visiting us? Thanks to our nine airports and the high-speed train (LGV), it is now very easy to get to Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Bordeaux is just a 2-hour ride from Paris. From Biarritz to Paris, it takes 3 hours 55 min, Futuroscope 1 hour 20 min and La Rochelle just 2 hours 25 min.
We look forward to greeting you in Nouvelle-Aquitaine!
Follow us, the editors of Nouvelle-Aquitaine-Tourisme.com as we show you around… our home.
From the peaks of the Pyrenees to the Marais Poitevin canals via the wharfs of Bordeaux, the beaches of the Atlantic to the shores of Lake Vassivière near Limoges, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is full of fascinating, entertaining stories that will amuse one and all.