Wine lovers tend to get obsessed with Bordeaux, the world’s capital of wine, and its renowned wine-producing regions: the Médoc, Graves and Sauternes, Blaye and Bourg, Saint-Emilion, Pomerol and Fronsac, and Entre-Deux-Mers. In fact, many believe the region is solely about wine, like there’s nothing else to see or do beyond Bordeaux.
We love wine as much as the next geek, but if you believe Bordeaux is solely about wine, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Located in the Gironde department, Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, in southwestern France, Bordeaux is a stone’s throw away from some exquisite destinations that feed the soul–for their breathtaking beauty–and feed the belly, bien sûr! Offering everything from exquisite gastronomy, rich history, stunning natural beauty, sunny beaches, and yes, more wine but a wide array, including distilled wines, Bordeaux is surrounded by a variety of attractions that cater to just about everyone, appealing to all tastes.
If you’re planning a day trip (or two!) from Bordeaux, here are some excursions for things to see and do:
Arcachon Bay, known as "Bassin d'Arcachon" in French, located on the Atlantic coast about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southwest of Bordeaux, is a stunning natural site renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and oysters! There’s so much to see and do (and eat!), making it the perfect spot for beach bums and gourmands.
Most famous for the Dune of Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dunes, reaching over 100 meters in height, visitors can climb the dune to take in the breathtaking scenery and panoramic views of the bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding pine forests.
The Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island), a small island in the middle of the bay, is famous for its stilted wooden cabins, known as "Cabanes tchanquées," and is a haven for birdwatchers, with a variety of bird species nesting in the area.
All this landscape certainly makes one hungry and there’s nothing better than stopping at one of the many traditional huts to eat fresh oysters. Considered a delicacy and a significant part of the region's culture and economy, visitors can tour oyster farms and taste fresh oysters in the local markets and restaurants.
And of course, there’s Cap Ferret. The Cap is the setting for the hit movies Les Petits Mouchoirs (Little White Lies) and then its sequel, Nous Finirons Ensemble (We’ll End Up Together), two films that show just how important Cap Ferret is for the French psyche, particularly the Parisians. Facing Arcachon, Cap Ferret is more local, more laid back, with plenty of small seaside towns along the peninsula. Don’t forget to visit the Cap Ferret Lighthouse for panoramic views.
The maritime city of La Rochelle, just a two-hour drive north of Bordeaux, is a picturesque port town located on the Atlantic coast. Steeped in history that stretches back to antiquity, La Rochelle flourished during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, becoming one of France's most significant maritime centers.
Over the centuries, La Rochelle has retained its seafaring heritage and importance. The city's historic harbor is famously guarded by its iconic towers—the Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas—standing as proud reminders of its fortified past. These remarkable structures not only protected the port but also symbolize the city's enduring maritime legacy.
La Rochelle offers a delightful blend of history and modern attractions. Visitors can wander through the Old Port ("Vieux Port"), lined with bustling cafés, seafood restaurants, and sailboats, capturing the quintessential charm of this coastal gem.
A must-see is the renowned La Rochelle Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, where you can explore the wonders of the ocean and discover a mesmerizing array of marine life.
One hour’s drive north from Bordeaux, Cognac is a charming medieval town renowned worldwide for its production of the luxurious brandy also called Cognac. It lies along the Charente River, and is home to some of the most prestigious Cognac houses in the world, including Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin, Courvoisier, and Camus, to name just a few. The small town regularly receives VIP visitors, such as Alicia Keys or Lebron James just this week! These legendary maisons (houses) have been producing Cognac for generations, each with its own unique techniques and closely guarded secrets that contribute to the distinct flavors and quality that have made Cognac a symbol of luxury and sophistication worldwide.
Visitors to Cognac have the opportunity to explore these grand houses, many of which offer guided tours that delve into the fascinating process of Cognac production, from grape harvesting and distillation to aging in oak barrels. These tours often conclude with tastings, allowing guests to savor some of the finest and most sought-after Cognacs, ranging from VS (Very Special) to the coveted XO (Extra Old) varieties.
Northwest of Bordeaux lies the Dordogne region. With its deep historical legacy, from prehistoric times to the medieval period, marked by the Hundred Years' War between England and France, the region is dotted with châteaux, fortified towns, and charming medieval villages. A quick train ride from Bordeaux’s Gare Saint Jean train station will take adventurous visitors to the delightful towns of Sarlat-la-Canéda, Beynac-et-Cazenac, or Castelnaud-la-Chapelle.
Also known for its rich gastronomic traditions, bustling village markets offer visitors a chance to experience the region’s delicious culinary heritage, such as foie gras, truffles, walnuts, and cheeses.
For nature lovers, the Dordogne offers breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. The Dordogne River winds its way through the region, carving out a valley that offers some of the most picturesque scenery in France. The river is bordered by steep limestone cliffs, rolling green hills, and villages perched high above the water. The Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly famous for its prehistoric sites and striking rock formations, with caves such as Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume nestled within this remarkable landscape.
The French Basque Country south of Bordeaux offers an extraordinary mix of coastal beauty, charming villages, rolling hills, and a vibrant, deeply rooted culture. Whether you're strolling along the elegant beaches of Biarritz, sampling pintxos in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, hiking the lush mountain trails, or immersing yourself in traditional Basque music and sports, this region is a captivating destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Curious to include these day excursions into a comprehensive Bordeaux wine tour? Take a look at our "Bordeaux in 4 Days with hotel" tour or get in touch to create a tailor-made tour just for you!
