The Bordeaux region: plan your perfect autumn weekend away

Day one: Bordeaux city

Arriving in Bordeaux, be sure to plan a day or two to explore the city and take in its lovely relaxed atmosphere and alfresco dining culture. Bordeaux is packed with quality restaurants for any budget, including a number of Michelin-starred establishments. What better reason to enjoy delicious local food and Bordeaux wine while sat outside watching the world go by.

Take a stroll along the Garonne river and arrive by sunset at the miroir-d”eau reflecting the splendid Palais-de-la-Bourse.

Looking for something different, modern and environmentally friendly? Check out Darwin, a green economy hub focusing on urban culture, with workshops, an urban farm, coworking spaces, the biggest organic restaurant in France and much more.

A trip to Bordeaux wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the museum of wine called La Cité du Vin. Since its opening in 2016, it has become a must-visit attraction for tourists from all over the world. The museum offers a spectacular journey around the world of wine throughout the ages, across cultures and civilisations.

After the permanent exhibition tour, head to the top of the Belvedere to enjoy a 360° view of the city. Anyone who has bought a ticket to the permanent tour gets a free glass of wine – cheers!

With over 6,500 wine growers in the Bordeaux region, you could easily sign up for a few wine tastings per day (caution is advised!). Here we offer just a couple of suggestions:

Château Soutard

Château Soutard’s 18th century façade and 16th century limestone wings, typical of traditional Bordeaux farm buildings, are a sight to behold. Make sure to take a tour of the castle to see the wonderful interiors and of course, don’t miss a wine tasting of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé wines.

Saint-Émilion

As you’re already in Saint-Émilion it would be rude not to visit the village itself. Saint-Émilion is believed to be the oldest active wine producing appellation in the Bordeaux region, with a history dating back to the Romans. Understandably, this charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The combination of world-famous wineries with its beautiful architecture makes Saint-Émilion one of the most interesting places to visit in the Bordeaux region.

Château de Camarsac

Château de Camarsac is situated between Bordeaux and St Emilion, in Entre-Deux-Mers. The old part of the Castle was built in the early 14th century. Vineyard owner Thierry Lurton and his team successfully blend traditional techniques with modern methods while looking towards a sustainable future.

Arcachon and Dune du Pilat

Just under forty miles from the city of Bordeaux lies the Bay of Arcachon, an area of breath-taking natural beauty. It’s home to stunning beaches, pine forests, world-renowned oyster beds, and a truly incredible sand dune.

Work up an appetite while climbing the biggest sand dune in Europe and reward yourself with delicious seafood served with a crisp and refreshing dry white Bordeaux wine. For more information on the area have a look at this article.

Looking for more ideas? Check out this article on the most unusual activities to do in Bordeaux.