Imagine strolling through the vineyards of Bordeaux, exploring the prehistoric caves of Dordogne, or surfing the waves along the Basque coastline. Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the largest region in southwest France, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences.
You can discover a region rich in history, with medieval castles and elegant 18th-century architecture throughout its cities and towns. From world-class surfing spots to tranquil island escapes like Ile-de-Ré, Nouvelle-Aquitaine has something for every type of traveler.
This guide will take you through the best things to do and see in this magnificent region, helping you plan the perfect itinerary for exploring the top places in southwestern France.
Discovering Nouvelle-Aquitaine: France’s Largest Region
Discover the charm of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France’s largest region, where diverse landscapes and rich history await your arrival. As you plan your trip, understanding the geography and how to get there is essential.
Geography and Location
Nouvelle-Aquitaine spans a vast area, encompassing the southwestern part of France. It boasts a diverse geography, from the Atlantic coast to the Pyrenees mountains, offering a wide range of landscapes to explore within a single region. You can spend a day exploring the coastal towns or venture into the countryside.
How to Get to Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Reaching Nouvelle-Aquitaine is straightforward, with multiple travel options available. You can fly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) or Biarritz-Bayonne-Anglet (BIQ) for European connections. Alternatively, the high-speed TGV train network connects major cities like Paris to Bordeaux in just 2 hours. Once in the region, you can travel between cities and towns using regional trains (TER) or rent a car to explore at your own pace, making the most of your day.
Bordeaux: The Elegant Wine Capital
As you explore Nouvelle-Aquitaine, you’ll discover that Bordeaux is a city that embodies the region’s rich wine culture. With its stunning architecture and world-class wine scene, Bordeaux is a city that will captivate your senses.
A UNESCO World Heritage Center
Bordeaux’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its architectural heritage and cultural significance. You’ll want to explore the city’s charming streets and admire its beautiful buildings.
La Cité du Vin: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
La Cité du Vin is a fascinating museum dedicated to the world of wine and its cultural significance. The museum’s interactive exhibits will take you on a journey through time and space to discover wines from around the world, showcasing the rich heritage of the surrounding vineyards.
- Explore the museum’s permanent exhibition, which invites you to discover wine in its universal, heritage, civilizational, and cultural dimensions.
- Enjoy a glass of wine at the panoramic Belvedere on the 8th floor, where you can take in stunning 360° views of Bordeaux and the surrounding vineyards.
- Arrange wine tours to the surrounding vineyards of Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Graves, where you’ll discover the terroir that produces some of the world’s most prestigious wines.
Dune du Pilat: Europe’s Tallest Sand Dune
If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural spectacle, look no further than Dune du Pilat. Located just an hour west of Bordeaux and south of Arcachon Bay, this natural wonder is a must-visit during your trip to Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Climbing the Magnificent Dune
Climbing Europe’s highest sand dune is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of the Landes Forest and more. The dune stands over 100 meters tall, and from the crest, the views are simply astounding.
Panoramic Views and Activities
Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean to the west and the verdant pine forests stretching to the horizon on the east. On clear days, you might even spot the Pyrenees mountains in the distance. Adventure seekers can enjoy paragliding over the dune, while families can camp in the nearby pine forests.
- Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Les Landes forest
- Paragliding experiences for adventure enthusiasts
- The Banc d’Arguin nature reserve visible from the dune
- Camping options in the adjacent pine forests
Visiting Dune du Pilat is an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Be sure to include it in your itinerary to witness the majestic Dune du Pilat and its surroundings.
Exploring the French Basque Country
As you venture into the French Basque Country, you’ll discover a unique blend of cultures and breathtaking landscapes. This region is characterized by its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.
Discovering the French Basque Country
The French Basque Country is a hidden gem, offering an unforgettable experience for travelers. You can explore the charming towns, enjoy the local cuisine, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. The region’s rich history and cultural heritage are evident in its architecture, festivals, and traditions.
Take a road trip through the French Basque Country and enjoy the stunning scenery, from the Pyrenees mountains to the Atlantic coast. You’ll find numerous opportunities to explore the local culture, history, and natural beauty.
Surfing the Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic coast of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is renowned for its world-class surfing conditions. You’ll find excellent surf spots in Hossegor, Biarritz, and Lacanau, attracting professional surfers and enthusiasts from around the globe.
The consistent waves and varied beach breaks make this coastline ideal for surfers of all abilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find suitable spots to enjoy the ocean and the seaside culture.
Beyond surfing, the seaside towns offer vibrant beach cultures with excellent seafood restaurants, beachfront bars, and a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly balances the traditional French lifestyle with surf culture.
Medieval Towns and Historic Sites
Step back in time and visit the medieval towns and historic sites that dot Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The region is rich in history, with numerous towns that have preserved their medieval charm.
Saint-Émilion: Wine and Heritage
Saint-Émilion is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This medieval town is famous for its wine production and architectural heritage. As you wander through its narrow streets, you’ll discover charming alleyways, historic buildings, and picturesque views.
Sarlat-la-Canéda: Périgord’s Medieval Gem
Sarlat-la-Canéda is the capital of Périgord and will transport you back in time to the Middle Ages. The town’s pedestrian streets are lined with historic buildings, inviting you to linger in its many cafés and restaurants. You’ll feel like you’re in a medieval town, with its golden limestone buildings glowing warmly in the sunlight.
The town’s remarkable architectural heritage includes Gothic and Renaissance mansions, lantern-topped towers, and picturesque squares. Be sure to visit the famous Saturday market, where you can sample local specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Both Saint-Émilion and Sarlat-la-Canéda offer a unique glimpse into Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s rich history and architectural heritage. Visiting these towns is a journey through time, allowing you to experience the region’s medieval charm firsthand.
Prehistoric Wonders: The Lascaux Caves
Discover the ancient history of Nouvelle-Aquitaine at the Lascaux Caves, a site of breathtaking prehistoric art. The Lascaux Caves are renowned for their stunning prehistoric paintings, which have captivated visitors for decades.
The History of Lascaux
The original Lascaux cave was discovered in 1940 and quickly became a popular tourist destination. Unfortunately, intense tourist exploitation in the early years risked irreversibly damaging this historical treasure. Indeed, the breath of visitors altered the surface of the walls, and in 1955, the first signs of deterioration appeared. Reluctantly, in 1963, the Lascaux cave was closed to the public to preserve the fragile paintings.
Visiting Lascaux IV: The Replica Cave
To allow visitors to admire these incredible works of art, a perfect replica, Lascaux IV, was built a few meters away. You can visit Lascaux IV, an incredibly detailed replica of the original caves that opened in 2016, featuring exact reproductions of the prehistoric artwork created using state-of-the-art technology and traditional techniques.
- You can explore the replica cave through a guided tour, experiencing the same awe as the original discoverers.
- The International Centre for Cave Art housing Lascaux IV provides an immersive educational experience about prehistoric art and life.
- Interactive exhibits use augmented reality and digital technology to deepen your understanding of the paintings’ significance.
By visiting Lascaux IV, you can experience this extraordinary site without endangering the original artwork, ensuring that the prehistoric paintings are preserved for future generations.
Coastal Treasures and Island Escapes
Experience the best of Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s coastal treasures, from beautiful beaches to charming island getaways. The region’s diverse coastline offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.
Ile-de-Ré: Cycling Paradise
Ile-de-Ré is a haven for cyclists, with its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and scenic bike trails. You can explore the island’s charming towns, visit local markets, and enjoy the fresh seafood.
Arcachon Bay and Its Oysters
Arcachon Bay is renowned for its oyster harvesting and seaside charm. Visit during summer to enjoy boat tours of the bay, explore the oyster farms, and relax on the warm sandy beaches surrounded by clear water. This makes Arcachon Bay an ideal place to unwind.
The bay is divided into four sections, each with its unique character, from the elegant villas of Ville d’Hiver to the oyster ports of Ville d’Automne. You can sample freshly harvested oysters at local farms and enjoy the scenic views.
Castles and Fortresses of the Dordogne Valley
The castles and fortresses of the Dordogne Valley are a testament to the region’s rich medieval past. You’ll discover a landscape where history and natural beauty blend seamlessly.
Castelnaud and Beynac: Rival Fortresses
Castelnaud and Beynac are two of the most impressive fortresses in the Dordogne, standing as rival castles on either side of the river.
You’ll be captivated by their medieval architecture and the stunning views they offer of the valley.
These castles are not just historical monuments; they’re gateways to understanding the region’s complex history and the strategic importance of their locations.
Exploring the Valley by Canoe
One of the best ways to experience the Dordogne Valley is by paddling down the river in a canoe.
You’ll glide past picturesque villages and medieval castles, enjoying the serene water surroundings.
As you paddle, you’ll have the opportunity to visit hidden beaches and explore the valley’s historic sites, making for a memorable visit to this beautiful region.
Conclusion: Planning Your Perfect Nouvelle-Aquitaine Adventure
With its diverse regions, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a unique travel experience that caters to all interests, from wine enthusiasts to beach lovers. You’ll want to consider visiting the vineyards around Bordeaux, exploring the prehistoric sites of Dordogne, or enjoying the beaches and surf spots along the coast.
The best times to visit depend on your interests: summer for beaches and festivals, spring and fall for wine harvests, and winter for skiing in the Pyrenees peaks. Consider creating a themed itinerary, such as a wine route or a castle tour, to make the most of your trip.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a region that offers some of the best things to experience in France, with charming towns and villages to explore, making it an ideal destination for your next adventure.
