Jeffrey & Dominique
Things To Do
Bordeaux city - a UNESCO world heritage site
Bordeaux is truly one of the most attractive cities in Europe. From the medieval towers of Porte Cailhau to the shimmering 'water mirror' along the Garonne river, it is a feast for the senses. Smaller and more manageable than Paris, it has a charm all its own. The incredible food, wine, vineyards and proximity to the coast make it a vacation destination of choice even for the French. You owe it to yourself to explore this city.
La Cite' du Vin
The Disney World of Wine! You could spend days here: learning about wine, sampling, smelling the 'aroma machines', and taking classes - all in a wonderfully modern building designed to look like wine swirling in a glass. In addition to the educational experience: there are three different indoor dining areas, a garden for a picnic by the river, and the wine cellar carries over 14,000 bottles from 800 different listings. Wow! Even their website is overwhelming.
Le Marché des Capucins (Capuchin Market)
This is the French version of Pike Place Market in Seattle. Named after the Capuchin monks that originally inhabited the area, this market has been in existence since the 1700s. Known as "the belly of Bordeaux" - it is one of the largest food markets in the country. If you can't find it here, it isn't in France!
If you're here for sun and sand...Arcachon Bay
A wonderful coastal vacation destination spot - and only one hour away!
and while you're in the neighborhood - Cap Ferret
Take a boat ride across the Arcachon basin to Cap Ferret; perhaps climb to the top of the red lighthouse ("phare" in French)
If you're here for the food...
Take a food tour in Bordeaux to discover the gastronomy of the south west and a little bit of its history too: sweet treats, foie gras, cheese, oysters, spices, charcuterie, wine, and more.
Wine Making - close up
Learn about wine making in Sauternes, its liquid gold is one of the treasures of the south west. Here the raisins are handpicked to make the best of sweet wine that goes perfectly with cheese, desserts and foie gras.
So many castles, so little time
Plan a visit to Duras and its castle; transformed into a fortress by the brother of the French pope who never went to Rome.
Underground church, anyone?
Spend a day in one of the most beautiful villages in France: Aubeterre-sur-Dronne was built in a natural amphitheater created by the chalk cliffs which rise from the banks of the River Dronne. It is famous for its underground church and the its characteristic houses of white chalkstone with wooden balconies
And that's just a start...
Visit the walled city of St. Malo (which becomes an island at high tide), the beaches of Normandy, the Louvre in Paris, or whatever captures your interest. As long as you are here, make it a "might as well" trip!