Claire & John
Things To Do
Things to Do In Bordeaux
WINE. It's good for you (we've got the medical degrees to be able to say that), and Bordeaux wine is amazing. There are some heavy hitters in the region, but we recommend visiting (and staying in!) the medieval town of Saint Émilion. From there book a tour, or drive yourself, to any of the number amazing vineyards surrounding the town. There are fabulous restaurants in the town, ranging from little hole in the walls to two Michelin stars! We recommend L'Envers du Décor for dinner, and stay at the Maison de la Commanderie. Careful on the cobblestones!
So You Have a Week (or More!) In France!
If you've got the time, we'd love for you to be able to see the country! Paris is classic, and well worth a few lovely summer days. Interested in medieval history? Nearby Languedoc is steeped in Cathar and Templar history. Consider visiting the famous walled town of Carcassonne and taking a day hike to visit the castle of Montségur. Like history, but want to stick with the 20th century? Visit Normandy and tour the D-Day beaches! Don't forget take a peak at the Bayeux tapestry! Want to go to the beach, but don't want to fly? Head south to Biarritz and learn to surf (it's where Claire learned!). Want to go to the beach and are alright with a little trek? Fly to the beautiful French Riviera and stroll along the Cannes boardwalk or hop over to Monaco and gamble in the casinos. If you're feeling like traveling even more, it's just a brief trek to Italy! Want to relax in Provence? Visit the medieval town of Avignon, and don't forget to check out the famously beautiful Sénanque Abbey!
More Wine Tasting Options Because It's France
Thought we were only going to recommend Bordeaux wines? They are amazing--but there are so many other wine regions of France to explore too! Claire's absolute favorite area is the Côtes-du-Rhône, near the medieval town of Avignon. Beautiful syrah-grenache blends, and affordable for students (always a good thing)! Check out the wineries near Mont Ventoux--we recommend Château Pesquie in particular. Love white wines? Sancerre should be your go-to. Beautiful rolling hills, under the radar from a tourism perspective. You won't be fighting the crowds, and the smaller vineyards mean you often can meet the vignerons themselves! Want to round out your French wine experience after Bordeaux? Burgundy, the other major pillar of French reds, is a good choice. Stay in Beaune and immerse yourself in the culinary and wine traditions. Feeling bubbly? You can't go wrong with Champagne! Don't forget to stop by some of the World War I battlefields as well.