Timelessly romantic, endlessly diverse and perhaps the gastronomic capital of the world, France offers the trip of a lifetime – and could take a lifetime to fully explore. For the time being, we’re focusing our attention on a very special corner of this European giant. Encompassing the elegant city of Bordeaux and the French Basque Country, the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a fascinating contrast to northern Spain. And makes a perfect pairing when combined with a trip to the Spanish Basque Country and Galicia.
If you’re interested in exploring this culture and wine-infused corner of our neighbour’s land, our destination guide offers tips for travel to France, with a particular focus on Bordeaux and the Basque Country.
Capital of the region – and wine capital of the world – the city of Bordeaux is as elegant as its claret. Situated on the banks of the Garonne River, this graceful city is the largest urban environment to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its grandiose 18th century architecture. From the imposing Place de la Bourse to the exquisite local produce in the Marché des Capucins and the famous La Cité du Vin interactive wine museum, this is a city to be savoured.
For most visitors to the region however, the lure of Bordeaux is the grand châteaux and prestigious vineyards surrounding the city. The Bordeaux Wine Route features historic villages, medieval towns, ancient churches, archaeological sites, and 57 appellations, among them the Grand Cru vineyards of Saint-Émilion, Pomerol and Médoc. The sparkling Bay of Arcachon offers another tasty diversion from the city to guzzle fresh oysters from its oyster shacks and admire the coastline from the summit of the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s largest sand dune.
Stretching along the Atlantic coast from Bordeaux to the Spanish border, the Pays Basque (French Basque Country) has more in common with the Basque regions of Spain than the rest of France. The region has a strong cultural identity, and a string of beautiful seaside resorts threaded along its rugged coastline. Highlights are the colourful half-timbered houses and chocolate shops of Bayonne, the old-world glamour of former royal favourite Biarritz, and the sweeping sheltered beach of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
With French gastronomy classed as an ‘intangible cultural heritage’ by UNESCO, France is paradise for foodies – and there are plenty of culinary treasures to be sampled here. Bayonne ham is considered the best in the country and pairs perfectly with the spicy Espelette pepper beloved by the region. Atlantic seafood features heavily along the coast, while delightful bite-sized pintxos line bars along the Pays Basque.
For more information and tips for travel to France and the captivating region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, contact Just Explore. We’ll craft an itinerary based on your interests, tastes and budget to give you an authentic flavour of Bordeaux and the Basque Country – and a mouthwatering taste of its culture, customs, cuisine and fine wines.
