Rolling vineyards and picturesque chateaux
Dubbed “the very essence of elegance” by none other than Queen Elizabeth II on her 1992 visit, Bordeaux city shines bright with a grandiose 18th-century harmony epitomised in the beautifully restored neoclassical architecture of its port. In 2007 half of the city, some 1,810 hectares, was certified by UNESCO making it the world’s largest Urban UNESCO heritage site. In addition to exploring Bordeaux itself, there are plenty of opportunities for day trips. It’s easy to pop over to Cognac for a day of exploration, and of course, tastings. Or visit the Bassin d’Arcachon for fresh oysters.
It’s likely for its viticulture that you’ll be familiar with Bordeaux. The south-western region has been producing wine since the Romans arrived in the 1st century AD and is today without doubt the world’s major wine industry capital. The countryside surrounding the city is covered in vineyards and dotted with rambling, picturesque chateaux – more than 3,000 estates in the greater Bordeaux area, according to some estimates – that produce some of the best known grapes in the world.
Intersected by the graceful Garonne River, Bordeaux is the largest city by area in France and after some serious renovation, has emerged to become a European contender in its own right. Public transportation has been improved with new tramways, new landmarks (such as the Miroir des Quais) and much-needed restoration of old monuments. New cafés, restaurants and museums are also frequently popping up all over this ancient, château-driven city.
Highlights
Take a leisurely cruise down the Garonne River.
Discover the only Cognac house specialising exclusively in the production of Old Cognacs using Grande Champagne grapes.
Head out of the city to marvel at prehistoric cave paintings at the Lascaux caves.
Take a day trip to Bassin d’Arcachon to learn all there is to know about farming oysters before enjoying a tasting.
History, culture and wine combine to make this a must-visit destination. Whether you prefer to spend your time wandering along village streets, enjoying private tastings of some of the region's best wine and Cognacs, or seeking out places of historic interest, Bordeaux is an enchanting region.

Kate Herz
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Bodeaux
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When to visit
May and June see pleasant temperatures before summer arrives, as well as fields blanketed in beautiful wildflowers. August is the hottest month of the year and often unbearably humid, so best avoided. The temperatures start to get cooler into September and October when it’s time for the wine harvest, making for the ideal time to visit the region and enjoy the sights and flavours.

Spring Flowers
May - June

Harvest Time
September - October

Exploring on Foot
May - November
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