10x the best of Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is France's largest region and is known for its diversity of landscapes, history and culinary highlights, such as its world-famous wines. The mix of coastlines, mountains, vineyards and bustling cities make Nouvelle-Aquitaine a popular and versatile holiday destination. Curious about all the surprises of this region? Discover our favourites from the region.

1.    Classic Bordeaux

The city of Bordeaux is elegant and known for its wine culture and charming architecture. You could say that the bustling capital of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is somewhat akin to beloved Paris, with its 18th-century French buildings and cosy squares. The city's eye-catcher is the Place de la Bourse, an imposing square with beautiful reflections of the surrounding buildings in the famous water feature the Miroir d'eau. In summer, young and old alike experience plenty of water fun here. You will also find many atmospheric boutiques and cafés in the charming neighbourhoods, and you can take long evening strolls along the banks of the Garonne.
Are you a wine lover? Then Bordeaux is the place to be. At the Cité de Vin you will learn all about the region's wine traditions. Of course, this also includes tasting. Bordeaux is the perfect mix of charm, culture and gastronomy.

2.    A breath of fresh air at Dune du Pilat

Get a breath of fresh air at the Dune du Pilat, Europe's highest sand dune. Located along the coast of Arcachon Bay, this immense sand dune is a whopping 110 metres high! From here you have spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islets. On the other side of the dune you will find the vast Landes de Gascogne, a spectacular oasis of green treetops. To get to the top of the sand dune, you can choose to climb up through the sand, or use 190 steps that will take you to the viewpoint. Dune du Pilat is a popular spot for hiking, and you can even paraglide there. 

Tip: At the end of the day, you can enjoy a magical sunset. An extra special holiday experience.

3.    The port city of La Rochelle

La Rochelle is an atmospheric port city and has a rich maritime history. The old port is most famous and the 3 impressive towers stand out immediately when you enter the city. These towers coordinated the entry of ships into the port, with great success. The largest tower is the Saint Nicolas Tower, which you will find on the quay of the old port. Next to it you have the Chain Tower, which gets its name from the large chains that were stretched in the evening to seal off the port. The Lantern Tower served as a lighthouse and prison.
Stroll through the city full of cosy squares and terraces. You can also visit one of the largest aquariums in Europe: the Aquarium de La Rochelle.

4.    The royal influences of Pau 

At the foot of the Pyrenees you will find the royal city of Pau. Among other things, the city houses the birthplace of King Henry IV, also known as Château de Pau. This giant white castle adds a generous touch to the city, and has been converted into a museum. Inside, the castle is decorated as if King Henry IV still lived there. You can wander through its many royal halls. The rich history is carried through into the historic centre, with atmospheric squares and markets. A walk along the Boulevard des Pyrénées is not to be missed - it is a beautiful walking route with views of green forests and snow-capped mountain peaks.

5.    Surfing village Biarritz

Located on the Atlantic coast, Biarritz is a popular seaside resort in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The place exudes a chic atmosphere, partly due to the luxurious 5-star hotel ‘Hôtel du Palais’ and the extensive promenade along the beach. The golden sandy beaches invite you to relax, but surfers also get their money's worth here with challenging currents and high waves. In addition, Biarritz has many trendy beach bars with culinary dishes from the region.

A special place in Biarritz is Rocher de la Vierge, a rock formation in the sea that can be reached by a footbridge. You will find the statue of the Virgin Mary, which was placed here as a tribute to the rescue of a ship in 1865. Moreover, you have a great view of the coastline and the city. 

6.    Taste the cognac in Cognac

The town of Cognac gets its name from - you guessed it - the cognac produced here. The tasty town, on the banks of the Charente river, has charming streets, typical French stone houses and a rich history when it comes to liqueur. It is also the birthplace of King Francis I. In his Château de Cognac, you will learn more about the history of this place.

The cognac houses such as Martell, Rémy Martin and Hennessy are absolutely not to be missed when in Cognac. There are several guided tours where you will learn more about the traditional distillation process. The tastings provide a taste sensation you won't soon forget. Apart from its rich heritage, Cognac is a fine city to wander through, with charming riversides and a friendly atmosphere.

7.     The wine history of Saint-Émilion

Meet Saint-Émilion, an extraordinary village which has been awarded a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Located in the heart of Bordeaux, the place is known for its vast vineyards. Wine tradition, architecture and history come together perfectly here. 

The city has numerous winding streets and centuries-old houses, and the Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Emilion adds to the atmosphere. Visit one of the city's centuries-old wine cellars, or join a tasting to try the region's refined red wines. Saint-Émilion is the ideal destination for both wine and culture lovers.

8.    The natural beauty of Les Landes

An impressive nature reserve, Les Landes is one of the largest forest areas in Europe. The area is known for its long sandy beaches, lakes and pine trees. Nature lovers and adventurers are in the right place, as it is the ideal destination for challenging bike rides or relaxing walks. Even more relaxation can be found along the coast, at the seaside resorts of Mimizan and Hossegor.

Les Landes is very popular with water sports enthusiasts, such as surfers, but you can also have fun inland, for example in the thermal baths or friendly villages. Les Landes offers a fine combination of relaxation and discovery in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

9.    The charming seaside resort of Arcachon  

Arcachon is a charming seaside resort located on the Arcachon bay of the same name. The place exudes elegance and is divided into 4 districts, each named after a different time of year. The ‘Ville d'Hiver’ neighbourhood excels with its many Pippi Longstocking houses and beautiful 19th-century villas that exude luxury. 

Arcachon is also known for its oyster farms. A fresh oyster is - almost - compulsory when in this city. Visit the port, or spend a day out on a boat, looking for oysters or not. Arcachon has a rich biodiversity, with the nearby Dune du Pilat and Île aux Oiseaux, two places with a great diversity of bird species. On the long sandy beaches, you can enjoy the nature surrounding these spots to the fullest.

10.    Plenty of entertainment along the Dordogne Valley

Explore the Dordogne Valley, one of France's most beautiful natural areas. The valley flows through the department of the same name, surrounded by medieval castles, friendly villages, impressive rock formations and picturesque landscapes. For example, you can visit the castles Château de Castelnaud and Château de Beynac, or see the prehistoric treasures of the Lascaux caves.

In addition, the Dordogne River lends itself perfectly to various water sports, and you can take beautiful nature walks along its banks. Moreover, the valley is known for its culinary delicacies, such as foie gras and walnuts. For nature, history and gastronomy, this is the place to be. 

Celebrating your next holiday in Nouvelle-Aquitaine? Check out our offer and book your adventure today in this diverse region full of history, natural beauty and culinary delicacies.