Information
Language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hr
Local beer
£5.00
Meal for two
£52.00
Average flight time
2hrs
Day trip to Bordeaux
Head to this vibrant port city for world-class wines, elegant 18th-century architecture and vibrant markets. Stroll along the Garonne River, explore the Cité du Vin or visit nearby vineyards in Saint-Émilion. It’s the perfect day out to experience the culture, cuisine and history...
Calling all foodies!
South-West France boasts rich, rustic cuisine that’s rooted in tradition. Think duck confit, cassoulet and truffles, often paired with bold regional wines. Local markets brim with fresh produce, cheeses and artisan bread. It’s a paradise for foodie fans who love authentic flavours and hearty dishes.
What regions are included in the South West of France?
The South West of France (Sud-Ouest) is a diverse area encompassing several distinct regions. The most prominent include Nouvelle-Aquitaine (the largest wine-producing region in the world), which covers Bordeaux, Dordogne, and the Basque Country, as well as the smaller Occitanie region (Toulouse and the Pyrenees). It stretches from the Atlantic coast to the Spanish border and offers a mix of mountains, vineyards, and medieval towns.
What is the best time of year to visit the South West of France?
The ideal time to visit depends on your interests. For a beach holiday on the Atlantic coast (Arcachon or Biarritz), June to September offers the best weather. However, May and October are excellent for visiting the vineyards of Bordeaux and exploring cultural sites in the Dordogne, as the weather is mild and the summer crowds have thinned.
Is the South West of France good for a foodie holiday?
Absolutely. This region is a gastronomic paradise. It is famous for foie gras, confit de canard, and truffles in the Dordogne. In the Basque Country (near the Spanish border), you can enjoy world-class tapas and pintxos. The region is also home to Roquefort cheese and the famous Jambon de Bayonne (ham).
Is the South West of France family-friendly?
Yes, it is incredibly family-friendly. The region boasts numerous outdoor activities such as kayaking on the Dordogne River, visiting prehistoric cave paintings (Lascaux IV), and exploring castles like Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. The beaches are generally wide and sandy, and the pace of life is slower than on the French Riviera.
