The Gironde department, contrary to what one might think, is not limited to the city of Bordeaux. Today, I suggest you discover the places to visit in Gironde, which will surely be unknown to some.
The urban spirit: the towns and villages of the Gironde department
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a dynamic city, that continues to increase its activities, notably thanks to the extension of the LGV on the Paris-Bordeaux line.
Its monuments, almost all carved in white stone, characteristic of the city, are very numerous: Saint-André Cathedral, Grand Théâtre, Monument des Girondins, Saint-Seurin Basilica … so many places to visit that will amaze you. If I had to name just one, I would certainly choose the Pey Berland tower, which is certainly not the oldest monument in Bordeaux, but will offer you a breathtaking view of the entire city center thanks to its height and location.
In Bordeaux, you can also visit many museums, such as the Fine Arts Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art. I strongly recommend that you go to the Bordeaux Museum, which reopened its doors very recently and will offer you a breathtaking collection. You can also discover the city’s past by going to the National Customs Museum, or to the former submarine base, now rehabilitated.
I also recommend that you enjoy one of its gardens and in particular the botanical garden, in which you can see real carnivorous plants!
Finally, Bordeaux is the capital of gastronomy in the southwest, you can taste foie gras, duck breasts, but also fish, and seafood…
Saint-Emilion
The small village of Saint-Emilion is located approximately 50 km from Bordeaux.
With a religious tradition, it is best known for the richness of its agricultural lands which have allowed the development of a world-renowned wine, but also for being a very cute little village in the heart of Bordeaux.
A true hamlet of peace in the countryside, you can visit the village, its surrounding hills, and its famous castles. If you choose to spend time in Saint-Emilion, then book a visit to the city’s underground passages!
Within a radius of a few km, you can cycle in the countryside, or go and taste the wines of the châteaux of Faugeres, or even Croix Chantecaille.
Finally, you can easily sleep in Saint-Emilion, thanks to its many guest rooms in which you will have a peaceful and relaxing stay.
Sea air: Ocean and Arcachon basin in Gironde
Lacanau
Lacanau is a seaside resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, west of Bordeaux. Although touristy, it retains some of its wild charm.
In Lacanau, you can enjoy 3 different spaces, depending on your desires:
- The city where you can do your shopping
- The lake , which is one of the largest in the Landes, with an area of ​​19.85 km2 and a maximum depth of 8 m, and which will offer you the possibility of doing many activities (boat, kitesurfing, windsurfing, etc.).
- The ocean beach , which stretches for 16 km! You can swim, surf, and do several other water activities. Finally, do not hesitate to stay there if you are staying for several days, to enjoy the atmosphere of the resort as well as the sound of the waves.
The Arcachon basin
It would be impossible to end this article without talking about the Arcachon basin .
Initially, the basin was a large estuary that opened onto the Atlantic Ocean. Over several centuries, geological movements brought the South (today Cap Ferret) and the North of the estuary (today Arcachon) closer together.
The Arcachon basin is surrounded by several villages which have developed their activities around oyster farming, the best known of which are those of Arcachon and Lège-Cap Ferret .
Thus, while walking around the basin, you can observe the old fishermen’s huts, the tchanqués huts of the bird island. You can also visit the Banc d’Arguin Nature Reserve and its preserved landscapes.
Finally, don’t hesitate to taste oysters and white wine in one of the many markets in the basin!
I have presented you with a small selection of places to visit in Gironde but this is not exhaustive. Indeed, for example, you can also discover the Porge beach or go deep into the Landes forest…
