Gironde, in southwest France, is a region rich in history, culture and breathtaking scenery. From world-renowned vineyards to sandy beaches and medieval towns, there's something for everyone. In this article, we present the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Gironde. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, history buff or nature lover, we're sure you'll find what you're looking for.
What to do in Gironde? Follow us on this journey through the Gironde and discover the hidden treasures of this magnificent region.
1. Discover Bordeaux
Bordeaux, the capital of Gironde, is a must-visit city on a weekend trip to the region, for example. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional architecture, the city has many historic monuments to discover. Not to be missed are the Place de la Bourse, the Grand Théâtre, Saint-André Cathedral and the Porte Cailhau. Art lovers can also visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the CAPC contemporary art museum. Last but not least, a stroll along the quays of the Garonne offers a breathtaking view of the city and the famous "miroir d'eau" (water mirror). Bordeaux is also a city renowned for its gastronomy and wines, with numerous restaurants and wine bars offering local specialties. Take advantage of your stay to discover Les Bassins des Lumières, one of the most unusual museums to visit in France!
Did you know? Bordeaux is one of our Top 10 best cities in France in which to telework.
2. What to do in Gironde? Visit the Cité du Vin
La Cité du Vin is a must-see in Gironde for wine and culture lovers. Located in Bordeaux, this unique institution offers an immersive, interactive experience to discover the world of wine in all its dimensions. The building, designed by architects Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières, is a real architectural feat and well worth a visit. Inside, visitors can explore the many facets of wine through permanent and temporary exhibitions, tasting workshops andmeetings with industry professionals. La Cité du Vin also offers a breathtaking view of Bordeaux from its belvedere, where visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the city.
3. Walking in Saint-Émilion
It's impossible not to fall under the spell of the magnificent Gironde commune of Saint-Émilion. Founded on the site of a 7th-century monastery, Saint-Émilion is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its many historic monuments and world-renowned vineyards . As you stroll through the streets of this medieval city, you'll be transported to another era. You can also discover how AOC red wine is made in the many surrounding châteaux, and take home a few bottles of grand cru in your luggage. Gardening enthusiasts will even be able to take home a little vine branch to cultivate!
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4. What to do in Gironde Fresh air in the Landes regional nature park
Located in the south of the département, the Landes regional nature park covers more than 300,000 hectares and offers a wide variety of landscapes, from pine forests and sand dunes to lakes and marshes. Here you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, horse-riding and canoeing. The park is also home to a rich and varied flora and fauna, with many protected species. Birdwatchers will be able to observe cranes, white storks and black kites. It's the perfect place to recharge your batteries and discover the rich biodiversity of the Gironde region.
5. Climb the Dune du Pilat
The Dune du Pilat is one of France's must-see sites. Located on the Atlantic coast, this dune rises to a height of over 100 meters and is over 2 kilometers long. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding pine forest . During your stay, you can climb the dune to enjoy a picnic, admire the scenery or take part in activities such as paragliding or sandboarding. The Dune du Pilat is also a protected natural site, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the ocellated lizard and the European cistude.
Take the opportunity to read our article "What to do in and around Arcachon? The 13 must-sees".
6. What to do in Gironde Going to Cap Ferret
What's on the agenda for your vacation in the Bassin d'Arcachon? Nature walks between ocean and pine forest ! The Bassin d'Arcachon is indeed a little corner of paradise. Located on the peninsula of the same name, Cap Ferret offers a breathtaking view of the Arcachon Basin and the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including sailing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and fishing. Cap Ferret is also renowned for its fine sandy beaches, cabanes tchanquées and typical oyster-farming villages. Food lovers can sample fresh oysters and other local specialties in the many restaurants on the peninsula. Good to know: the Bay of Arcachon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in France in spring.
7. The Route des Châteaux or the Route des Vins
The Gironde is one of France's top wine-tourism destinations, and for good reason. The Route des Châteaux or Wine Route crosses the department's most prestigious wine appellations, including Saint-Emilion, Pomerol, Médoc, Graves and Sauternes . Along the way, you'll be able to discover the vineyards, meet the winemakers and taste the region's wines. The Route des Châteaux also offers a wide variety of landscapes, from vineyards and châteaux to picturesque villages. You can also sample local specialties such as foie gras, oysters and cannelés.
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8. What to do in Gironde? Bird Island
This enchantingly-named strip of land in the center of the basin is accessible only by boat, and offers a wide variety of landscapes and wildlife. It owes its name to the 150 species of birds that live there or pass through on their migration. Just as famous as the birds, the region's emblematic "cabanes tchanquées " stand on stilts. They are brimming with history and anecdotes. Île aux Oiseaux is also renowned for its oyster beds, where you can enjoy fresh oysters straight from the water.
9. The Pair-non-Pair cave
Located in the commune of Prignac-et-Marcamps, the Pair-non-Pair cave is an exceptional site. This ornate cave is one of the few to feature rock engravings dating back over 30,000 years, making it unique in the world. You'll see 46 engravings depicting animals such as horses, mammoths, ibex and cattle, as well as a representation of a megaceros deer. Discovered by chance in 1881 by the self-taught prehistorian and palaeontologist François Daleau, the cave revealed that Neanderthal man was its first occupant, thanks to the discovery of 15,000 objects and 6,000 animal bones. This visit is for everyone, and will interest young and old alike, making it an excellent idea for a family outing.
10. What to do in Gironde Visit the Cordouan lighthouse
The Cordouan l ighthouse isthe only lighthouse in the world still manned by lighthouse keepers and open to visitors. Discover the history of this mythical lighthouse, nicknamed the "Versailles of the sea", with fascinating guided tours. The Cordouan lighthouse is also a remarkable natural site, surrounded by a nature reserve home to a rich and varied flora and fauna. To reach the lighthouse, take a shuttle bus from the port of Royan or La Tremblade. A visit to the Cordouan lighthouse is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering an insight into the region's maritime history and the natural beauty of the Gironde estuary.
11. Getting to Lacanau
Situated on the Atlantic coast, Lacanau boasts some of the finest sandy beaches in France and waves perfect for surfing, bodyboarding or kitesurfing. Nature lovers willenjoy the many hiking and mountain-biking trails in the pine forest surrounding the town. Lacanau is also renowned for its lake, which offers a wide variety of water sports such as sailing, paddleboarding and water skiing. Finally, take advantage of your stay to discover the local gastronomy in the town's many restaurants, particularly the seafood specialties.
12. What to do in Gironde Visit the Château de Roquetaillade
The Château de Ro quetaillade is recognized as one of the finest monuments in the South-West of France. This remarkable site comprises two fortresses, still furnished and inhabited by the same family for 700 years. Inside, you'll marvel at the Renaissance splendor of the superb fireplace, the great hall, the 19th-century Gothic grand staircase, the decor and furniture created by Viollet-le-Duc, and the kitchen, which is still in use. Tours are guided by an enthusiastic volunteer. You can also visit the museum, which provides an insight into country life and its evolution from 1850 to 1950.
13. The Ornithological Reserve of Le Teich
The Réserve Ornithologique du Te ich is an ideal place to observe both migratory and sedentary birds. It is made up of reed beds, marshes, meadows and lagoons, and every year around 300,000 birds stop off here. The reserve is accessible during the day, but it's important to respect the birds' tranquillity by being discreet and quiet. Staff are on hand to provide practical information and advice on the best places for birdwatching. The 6 km route is dotted with numerous information panels and 20 enclosed observation huts, spaced every 300 meters or so, offering a comfortable visit whatever the weather conditions.
14. What to do in Gironde Fort Médoc
Built in 1689 by Vauban to protect Bordeaux, Fort Médoc is an impressive defensive fortification that forms part ofa UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes Fort Pâté and the citadel at Blaye. Some of the buildings are still standing, such as the fortified powder magazine, the guardhouse, the chapel, the cistern, part of the barracks and the royal gate with its pediment adorned with the royal sun. From the ramparts, the view of the Gironde River, the Blaye citadel and the surrounding hills is breathtaking and a must-see.
15. What to do in Gironde The Blaye Citadel
The Citadelle de Blaye is a must-see historic site in Gironde. Built in the 17th century by military architect Vauban, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. The citadel is made up of three forts linked by ramparts , and offers a breathtaking view over the Gironde estuary. Discover the history of the citadel by walking the ramparts, visiting the casemates and exploring the underground passages. The citadelalso housesa museum retracing the history of the region and the construction of the citadel. Wine lovers can also take advantage of the visit to discover the surrounding vineyards and taste the wines of Blaye.
16. Gironde Estuary
The Gironde Estuary is one of France's most eco-friendly destinations. Formed by the meeting of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, it is the largest estuary in Western Europe. It is home to a rich and varied flora and fauna, including many species of migratory birds. The estuary also offers magnificent scenery, with cliffs, sandy beaches and vineyards as far as the eye can see. Water sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the estuary for sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. You can also explore the many fishing and trading ports along the estuary, as well as the region's picturesque towns and villages.
17. Hourtin nature reserve
The Hourtin nature reserve is a protected natural area located in Gironde, on the Atlantic coast. It covers more than 2,000 hectares and ishome to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The reserve is made up of several natural environments, including dunes, marshes, forests and ponds. Here you'll be able to observe numerous birds, including herons, egrets, white spoonbills and storks. The reserve is also an important breeding ground for the endangered European pond terrapin. Hiking enthusiasts can take advantage of the many marked trails to discover the reserve's varied landscapes.
What unusual places to visit in Gironde?
If you're looking for unusual places to visit in Gironde, you won't be disappointed! Here are a few suggestions:
- The abandoned village of Roquetaillade-et-Conilhac : this small medieval village was deserted by its inhabitants in the 19th century and is now in ruins. It has a mysterious and fascinating atmosphere.
- Bernet lock-keeper's house: this former lock-keeper's house has been transformed into an unusual museum. Here you can discover the history of navigation on the Canal Latéral à la Garonne, and admire a collection of antique objects and tools.
- Cap-Ferret lighthouse: this atypical lighthouse is built on stilts and offers a breathtaking view of the Arcachon Basin. It can be reached on foot from Plage de l'Horizon.
What to do in Gironde with children
Gironde is an ideal destination for a family vacation in January or July. Here are a few activities to do with children:
- Haute-Touche wildlife park: this 500-hectare wildlife park is home to over 1,200 animals of 100 different species. You can observe wild animals in semi-liberty and take part in educational workshops.
- Bordeaux Pessac Zoo: set in a 5-hectare wooded park, this zoo is home to over 80 animal species. It also offers activities and workshops for children.
- Le parc de l'aventure: this adventure park in Saint-Médard-en-Jalles offers acrobatic high ropes courses for children aged 3 and over.
- Bassin d'Arcachon: this natural lagoon offers a wide range of water sports, including sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. You can also visit the cabanes tchanquées, emblematic of the region.
- La dune du Pilat: this sand dune is the highest in Europe, offering a breathtaking view of the Arcachon basin. Children will love climbing to the top and running down.
Discover our article Where to go on vacation in France with children? 16 destinations.
Where to go for a walk in Gironde?
Wondering what to do in the South-West of France ? There are plenty of must-see getaways, as well as many beautiful places to wander. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Bordeaux Park: this 28-hectare park in Bordeaux is ideal for a stroll with family or friends. It is home to numerous species of trees, children's playgrounds and sports fields.
- Lac de Cazaux-Sanguinet: this 5,800-hectare natural lake is surrounded by forests and sandy beaches. Here you can enjoy hiking, cycling and water sports.
- The coastal path (sentier du littoral ): this path runs for over 120 kilometers along the Atlantic coast, offering spectacular views of the ocean. You'll see cliffs, dunes and wild beaches.
- Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park: this nature park covers an area of over 300,000 hectares and is home to exceptional flora and fauna. You can go hiking, mountain biking or canoeing here.
Which medieval village to visit in Gironde?
Gironde boasts a number of medieval villages well worth a visit. We recommend a visit to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its vineyards and historic monuments. Visit the monolithic church, the Cordeliers cloister and the Tour du Roy. Blaye is a medieval town on the banks of the Gironde, home to a citadel built by Vauban. You can visit the Château des Rudel, the Porte de Liverneuf and the Church of Saint-Romain.
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