Take a day trip
No matter where you land in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, a picture-perfect town or city is never far away. The famed wine-growing region, Bourdeaux, sits pretty on the Garonne River and is a kaleidoscope of Gothic architecture, historic structures and top-notch gastronomy. While La Rochelle and Cognac offer postcard scenes to boot.
See the sights
It's sightseeing galore in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region! Tick off impressive structures like the Place de la Bourse and the Cathedrale Saint-Andre on a trip to Bordeaux. Visit the Fortified House of Reignac in Tursac before delving deeper into the natural beauty of the UNESCO-stamped Dordogne Valley!
Vast vineyards
It’ll be wine tastings here and tipple sampling there when you escape to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Bordeaux is on your doorstep after all. Make the most of the Cabernet capital and explore some of the country’s best vineyards. Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion and Château Pape Clément are just a couple of the showstoppers.
What makes Nouvelle-Aquitaine a unique destination in France?
Nouvelle-Aquitaine stands out for its blend of coastal beauty, historic towns, and world-class gastronomy. From the rugged cliffs of the Atlantic coast to the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux and the medieval charm of the Dordogne, it offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural landscapes. This region is ideal for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and nature seekers, making it a standout destination in South-West France.
What local dishes and wines should I try in Nouvelle-Aquitaine?
Sample délicieuse foie gras, confit de canard and truffle-infused dishes in Périgord. Pair them with world-class Bordeaux wines or crisp white Irouléguy from the Basque foothills. Don’t miss Arcachon oysters or Basque piperade.
What is the climate like in the south-west of France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine?
Nouvelle-Aquitaine enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Atlantic breezes keep temps comfortable, while inland areas around Périgord experience greater seasonal variation, including cool, misty mornings.
What are the top attractions in Nouvelle-Aquitaine?
Must-see sites include Bordeaux’s historic port, the Dune du Pilat (Europe’s tallest sand dune), medieval Sarlat-la-Canéda, the wine estates of Saint-Emilion, and the stunning Basque coast around Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Does Nouvelle-Aquitaine have good beaches for a family holiday?
Yes, absolutely. The Atlantic coastline is vast and offers something for everyone. The Côte d'Argent (Silver Coast) features long, sandy beaches such as those at Biscarrosse and Arcachon, which are perfect for families. The waters can be lively, so for calmer swimming, the sheltered bay of Arcachon is ideal. For surfing families, the beaches around Biarritz and Hossegor are superb, with plenty of surf schools available.
