Aquitaine guide
There is something to please everyone in this glorious region but wine lovers could certainly not pick a better place for a wonderful holiday than amongst the world famous rolling vineyards of Aquitaine. Bordeaux alone produces over 40 million cases of wine per year but is also renowned for its stunning architecture particularly the 18th century Maison du Vin and the impressive Pont de Pierre bridge
The shoreline is one long beach right down to the Spanish border, embellished by rolling golden dunes and stylish resorts such as Biarritz and Hossegor. This is a true paradise for surfers and families alike where huge waves roll in off the coast over beautiful white sand ideal for sunbathing and an endless play area for children.
Inland is a complete contrast with lush scenery of the unspoilt valleys of the Dordogne and Lot, rich meadows,orchards, pine forests and meandering rivers. The wide open countryside encompasses Europe's largest forest and is a haven for a vast range of outdoor activities including many watersports and golf - the quality of its 60 courses and the fact they are playable all year due to a superb climate has made Aquitaine France's leading region for this popular sport.
Places to visit
Biarritz
Relax away the morning at a café on the Grand Plage people watching on the promenade. Or shop 'til you drop in the classy boutiques rounded off by a seafood supper in one of the many excellent restaurants.
Périgueux
This ancient Roman town has tiny squares, narrow streets, an interesting cathedral and a ruined amphitheatre.
The Vézère Valley
There are 25 decorated caves to visit here including the famous Lascaux Cave which has hunting scenes showing some 100 animal figures, all of which have amazing detail and lifelike quality.
Things to do
Dune du Pyla
Located south of Arcachon this extraordinary sand dune, standing at 100m is the highest in Europe. Climb to the summit where the view over the coast and the large surrounding pine forest is spectacular.
Golf
Play a round of golf on one of the many courses to choose from including Biarritz le Phare where the bunkers are made from WWII bomb craters!
Watersports
Boating, swimming, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and pedalo hire on lakes and rivers. Surfing the Atlantic rollers.
Food and drink
Local specialities
Foie gras, walnut oil, truffles, Bayonne ham, delicious seafood, plums and tomatoes.
What's on the menu?
Pommes sarladaises (potatoes cooked in goose fat). Duck cooked in every conceivable way. Desserts include gâteaux, flans and tarts made with chestnuts, plums, grapes, cherries and pears. Fougasse, a light bread made with olive oil.
What to drink
You are spoilt for choice as this is the home of the Médoc vineyards and the lovely medieval hilltop village of St Emilion that has no less than 50 well stocked wine shops.
