Abbi & Yoann
Things To Do
Éauze
Thursday Morning Market. Eauze is the capital of Armagnac, where the famous ‘eau de vie’ is produced. Every Thursday a large market takes place in the centre of the town where you can find the very best local and seasonal fruit and vegetables. Cheese from the Pyrénées and other fresh dairy products, straight from the farm, fresh seafood and oysters from Arcachon and fine saucisson flavoured with figs, nuts & herbs. Visit mairie-eauze.fr
Golf de Guinlet
Golf de Guinlet is within 15 minutes drive of La Forêt in the Gers countryside. A challenging course in a beautiful setting between pine and oak forests with magnificent views of the Pyrénées. Visit golfdeguinlet.com. For further information on Golf in the Gers, visit tourisme-gers.com
Armagnac and wine tasting
"Armagnac is the oldest wine based eau-de-vie produced in the heart of Gascony, South West France. It is produced by a single distillation of white wine in an Armagnac alambic (still) and then left to age for many years in oak barrels before being sold. It is available in vintages that are specific to Armagnac, or indeed in several different blends." Many of the local producers of fine Armagnac are to this day some of the most popular and are well worth a visit: Château du Tariquet, Château de Millet, Domaine de Pellehaut. For exclusive tours and a chance to see a very large selection of the finest Armagnac visit darroze-armagnacs.com
Cycling in SW France
The stunning scenery and smooth undulating landscape of the Gers is perfect for those cyclist enthusiasts whether professional or keen amateurs. This area of France, near La Forêt plays host to many cycling events and the famous historical site Notre Dame des Cyclistes in La Bastide d’Armagnac. More information: www.notredamedescyclistes.net.
Pyrenees
A challenging and diverse mountain range that stretches along the south-western edge of France and Spain. Ranging in length over a distance of approximately 430 km from the Mediterranean Sea (Cap de Creus) to the Gulf of Biscay (Cap Higuer). Activities range from skiing to mountain climbing and trekking to horse riding and cycling. Discover the Pyrénées on horseback: ariege.com and fontaines-escot.com. Skiing and snow reports at lespyrenees.net The Pyrenean long-distance footpaths that run through France and Spain offer the best way to enjoy majestic mountain views on foot. More information on trekking at lespyrenees.net, Cathar Castles -information catharcastles.info
Atlantic Coast, Surfing and Beach breaks
Some of the finest surfing beaches in Europe are found in this region, especially around Biarritz and along the southern part of this stretch of Atlantic coast. The beaches attract many international surfers due to the world famous beach breaks, La Nord and Les Estangot. Visit wannasurf.com and surf-report.com. Although famed for its Atlantic rollers there is plenty to do and see along the coast: the surf, the sea front restaurants, shops and small boutiques. The perfect spot for picnics in amongst the pine forests and sand dunes. Our favourite places to visit are La Dune de Pyla in Archachon, Cap Ferret and Guérthary.
Circuit de NOGARO Paul Armagnac
The famous motor racing circuit is less than 15 minutes away offering different options. The weekend of our wedding the 60th Grand Prix / Historic Tour will take place. Le célèbre circuit de courses automobile se trouve à moins de 15 minutes proposant différentes options. Le weekend de notre mariage le 60e Grand Prix / Historic Tour aura lieu.
Hot air Balloon / Vol en Montgolfière
A hot air balloon flight is surely a unique way to discover this beautiful region with a breathtaking view from the air. Un vol en Montgolfière est sûrement un moyen unique de découvrir cette belle région avec une vue imprenable depuis les airs.
Lourdes
The sprawling town of Lourdes, 43km southeast of Pau, has been one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites since 1858, when 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous (1844–79) is claimed to have been visited 18 times in a rocky grotto by the Virgin Mary. 1.5hr drive from the wedding venue.
Donostia-San Sebastian
Whether it’s your first sip of fizzy txakoli wine or umpteenth viewing of La Concha beach, San Sebastián never falters. Located on the coast of the Basque Country region of Spain, this malleable plain is divided into three beaches, each drawing a diverse crowd: La Zurriola is populated by young people and surfer types, La Concha by tourists and Ondarreta is popular among local families. Bountiful beaches aside, San Sebastián’s main draw is its food and drink. Served in standing-room-only bars across the city, pintxos are San Sebastián’s signature dish. Bounce from bar to bar, pairing small bites with local wines, ciders and digestifs. Blessed with an alluring coastline and diverse cultural offering, Spain’s culinary capital is sure to whet your appetite and it's just over a 2hr drive to the wedding venue!
Bordeaux
just under 2hr drive from the wedding venue.