About Bordeaux Wine Country
Centred around the city of Bordeaux, the Bordeaux Wine Regions encompass several wine-growing areas throughout the Gironde department of Aquitaine. Its the second-largest wine-growing region in the world and includes the Medoc and Graves areas on the left bank of the Gironde River and the Libournais, Bourg and Blaye areas on the right.
What To Eat In Bordeaux
Discover Culinary Specialities in Bordeaux. The location as a port and a trading city has effected on the peculiarities of its gastronomy. Bordeaux gastronomical scene is pretty diverse. You will find everything from high-end gourmet restaurants and bistros to wine bars and market places, where you can taste authentic food and products. Here you will find the three most characteristic dishes that represent the region the best.
La Lamproie Bordelaise – Fish Served In Its Own Blood
The old Aquitaine recipe from Middle ages.
Not a pleasant story to be told how they prepare this dish. However, it is considered to be a delicacy in Atlantic coastal areas of France as well as in Spain and Portugal. Between February and March, the fish come back at Gironde and Dordogne confluence to lay its eggs. This is when fishermen catch Lamprey, which is the only fish to bleed alive.
the preparation of the dish starts with extracting blood from the fish, which is later mixed with red wine to prepare the sauce. Then, The Lamprey is cooked with leeks and added the sauce. You can serve it with garlic croutons, fresh pasta or boiled potatoes.
Caviar from Michelin-Starred Chef’s Selection
Caviar dAquitaine is one of the most famous caviar in the world and part of the Aquitaine gastronomy. The Caviar comes from sturgeons raised in high-quality rivers and ponds. Thats why the Caviar dAquitaine is recognized by Michelin-starred chefs.
The Famous Confit de Canard
South Treat – the Canelé
Mercure Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint Jean
Staying at this branch of Mercure in Bordeaux means being very close to the main train station of the city Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean as well as the tram stop that serves it. Even closer, however, is Tauzia, another tram stop just a couple of minutes walk away.
The hotel may not be near major sights, but getting to the old center of town and attractions like Bordeaux Cathedral is made easy by catching the trams. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant, a bar, and unfussy but clean and warmly decorated rooms for a very convenient place to stay in the city.
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Travel Guide To Bordeaux Wine Region
Bordeaux wine region is located on the Atlantic coast, on right and left bank of the Gironde Estuary. Benefiting from the location and the climate vineyards here produce exclusive wines. Worldwide recognized for its harmonious, premium quality wines, Bordeaux is a major player in the international wine market. Moreover, the city of Bordeaux is one great wine capitals famous for its historical heritage and outstanding gastronomical scene.
Check out wine tastings & tours in Bordeaux wine region! we will help you to enjoy your wine tour in one of the most renowned wine regions in the world!
The region of Bordeaux gathers a large number of activities, whether seaside, open-air, historical, viticultural, or gastronomic. The choice is wide. This guide is what you need to learn about:
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Le Moulin Margaux Margaux
One of Bordeauxs most unique Left Bank experiences is staying in a windmill converted in to a self-catering apartment with 360° views of the surrounding Margaux vineyards.
Before Margaux was home to some of Bordeauxs most famous vineyards, this area was a farming area dotted with many windmills. Theres few that remain these days, but one sits on the family home of the owner of Château Kirwan, a third growth 1855 Grand Cru Classé estate.
Le Moulin de Margaux has charmingly been converted in a three-story apartment. The ground level has a kitchenette complete with oven, fridge, toaster, coffee maker and kettle. The first floor is a full bathroom and the bedroom is on the top level with panoramic views over the Margaux vineyards.
Theres a pool on the property, which the owners invite guests to use. A refreshing swim is a must during Bordeauxs hot summers.
Note that this windmill is not suitable for children because of the winding stairs. A rental car is best for exploring from this Margaux destination. We recommend the restaurants Café Lavinal a 15 minute drive away in Pauillac, or Villabordoh a 10 minute drive away in Margaux.
Le Moulin de Margaux includes wifi and use of the pool. Free private parking on site. Aside from the windmill, there is also a self-catered apartment attached to the main house available for stays.
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Best Hotel In Quinconces: Quality Saint
This is a great place to stay if youre looking to enjoy the best of Bordeaux as its ideally located for exploring the city and enjoying the vineyards. It has cosy rooms with air conditioning, modern amenities and private bathrooms. Guests can also enjoy a library with a range of books and a TV room.
Saint Michel Saint Croix And Victoire The Cosmopolitan Areas Of Bordeaux
If youre looking to lower your budget or change the scenery from classic Bordeaux, the southern districts of the city are a great option. Saint Michel, Saint Croix and Victoire are the cosmopolitan districts of the city. A very mixed population lives in these neighborhoods, you could find international students, artists and immigrant merchant families. The area has a lively culinary scene, from the main market of Bordeaux to local bars and cute little restaurants. If youre a foodie, check out my food tours in the main market of Bordeaux. Although its only a few minutes walk from the city center, apartments in this area are considerably cheaper than the neighboring Saint Paul district.
The best known hotel in this district is Maison Fredon, a little boutique hotel located in a beautifully renovated 18th-century house. There are only five rooms in this hotel, all uniquely designed to combine modern decor with the classic style of a bourgeois bordelaise house.
Click here to read more about things to do in Saint Michel.
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Best Of Wine Tourism: Where To Go In The Bordeaux Region
Looking for a breath of fresh air during your vacation? To keep your spirits up all year round, head for the Bordeaux vineyards! And to find the perfect place, or stay, in the heart of the vines, reach for “Le Guide Best of Wine Tourism”.
Organised by the Network of Great Wine-growing Capitals, and the Bordeaux-Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry, since 2002, every year the Best of Wine Tourism contest gives awards not only to the most outstanding wine tourism sites in Bordeaux but also in nine other viticultural destinations around the world.
For each vintage, around twenty Bordeaux appellations are acclaimed in seven categories across a wide variety of themes: Architecture & Landscapes, Art & Culture, Discovery & Innovation, Accomodation, Improving Environmental practices, On-site dining, Wine Tourism Services. Here’s a zoom on a few winners of recent editions.
Best Hotel In Chartrons: Hotel Vatel Bordeaux
Hotel-Vatel Bordeaux is our top choice for where to stay in Chartrons. Comprised of 12 rooms, this elegant four-star hotel is outfitted with a variety of amenities. Youll enjoy concierge service, free wifi, and a relaxing outdoor terrace. Theres also a myriad of dining and nightlife options nearby.
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Things To See And Do In Vieux Bordeaux
Admire the intricately detailed interiors and catch a performance at the Grand Theatre.
Dine on tasty French treats at Le Petit Bois.
Enjoy a glass of wine at Le Wine Bar.
Hunt for treasures at the Saint Michel Flea Market.
Marvel at the architecture of the Place de la Bourse.
Sample great cocktails at CanCan.
See the Porte Cailhau, a 35-meter tall city gate.
Sip a café and people watch in Place du Parlement.
Sit outside and enjoy a bottle of wine at Chez le Pepere.
Visit the Sainte-Croix Church, the oldest church in Bordeaux.
Best Western Premier Bordeaux Bayonne Etche
This is a 4-star hotel with 33 rooms complete with a late 20s art-deco atmosphere. The hotel is made of two beautiful houses dating from the 18th century, the Bayonne and the Etche-Ona, with an interesting story behind each one. A perfect location, just a minute walk from the Opera and next to le Marche des Grands-Hommes where you can buy some delicious souvenirs to bring back home. If you need a good coffee in the morning, Kuro is just a minute away. Parking requires prior reservation.
Address: 4 Rue Martignac
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Bastide The Other Side Of The River
Located on the right bank of the Garonne, La Bastide was originally a village surrounding the fort of Mons and its accompanying monastery, but has since been fully urbanized following the completion of the Pierre Bridge in 1822.
While the industrial crisis of the 1970s saw the closing of much of Bastides factories and shipyards, the area has undergone a significant renaissance in the proceeding decades.
There is much to see and do in Bastide, starting with the original Orleans station, constructed in the mid-19th century, which included a sizable public cinema.
The lovely, secluded grounds of Parc des Berges and Botanical Garden are prime picnic locales, while the Darwin Project features a living ecosystem built atop a former military wasteland.
With an active tram system and ongoing influx of residential housing, La Bastide is among the best places to stay in Bordeaux thanks to its understated, off-the-map positioning.
Guests who wish to stay there will have no shortage of breathtaking neoclassical and panoramic views along the river, as well as access to all the prerequisite restaurants and shops.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BASTIDE
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Bordeaux
Bordeaux is an awesome city with so much to offer travellers. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its innovative food scene, lively nightlife and world-class wine, theres plenty to see, do and enjoy in Bordeaux.
In this article, weve looked at the five best places to stay in Bordeaux. If youre still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite places.
Central Hostel is our favourite hostel in Bordeaux thanks to its great location, cosy atmosphere and comfortable beds.
Our recommendation for the best hotel is Hotel Vatel Bordeaux in Chartrons. With 12 elegant rooms, this hotel offers high-quality accommodations in the heart of Bordeaux.
And dont forget to take out Travel Insurance for your trip! I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. Theyre easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once youve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.
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Bordeaux Historic District Where To Stay In Bordeaux For The First Time
The Saint Pierre and Saint Paul districts are where the Sleeping Beauty is alive and thriving.
Here is where youll get an overwhelming sense of what makes the city so unique, from la Grosse Cloche, the citys bell tower, to Porte Cailhau, the citys fairy-tale gate dating back to the 15th century.
The Saint Pierre church is a prominent example of the regions distinguished Gothic influences, and features beautiful stained glass windows and imposing interior arches.
There are a number of small squares in which you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine while people watching before strolling along the Garonnes promenade.
Rue Sainte Catherine will be of particular interest to shopping enthusiasts, with its many chic shops and boutiques, while Espace Saint Rémi, a former church converted into an art hall, offers free exhibitions on a rotating basis.
While it is possible to find attractive lodgings within the historic district, be prepared to pay equally luxe prices unless you are booking off-season.
Fortunately, Bordeauxs most popular attractions are all within walking distance, with significantly less expensive hotels and hostels located just 10-15 minutes from the city center.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BORDEAUX HISTORIC DISTRICT
Chteau Le Pape For Its Guest Rooms
For a night out of time in the middle of the vineyards just a stone’s throw from Bordeaux, rendez-vous at château Le Pape. Here, in a completely renovated eighteenth century Chartreuse, spacious guest rooms overlooking a calm, sheltered garden await the visitor. A stay in the heart of the estate is also the ideal opportunity to try out some wine tasting, make the most of the infinity pool above the vineyard or set off to explore the appellation’s vines on bikes provided by the property. And if you feel peckish after the effort, just 2km away the château Haut-Bailly Private Table serves meals in the privacy of its reception rooms.
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Saint Genes And Nansouty
South to the center, you can find Saint Genes and Nansouty. These are two quiet neighborhoods bordering Place de la Victoire from the South. There isnt much to do here but its only about a 15 minutes walk from the center and its conveniently placed on the tram line B that takes you to all the main spots in Bordeaux.
Pey Berland And Meriadeck Where To Stay In Bordeaux For Museums
Located on the border of Bordeauxs historic center, Pey Berland and Meriadeck contain some of the most iconic locations in the city. Bordeaux Cathedral and Bordeaux City Hall are both found here, as are multiple art and history museums, which earned the area the nickname the museum district.
The Musée des Arts décoratifs et du Design, Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Musée dAquitaine are worth visiting!
Bordeaux Cathedral is also known as Cathedrale Saint André, located in Place Bey Berland. its a Roman Catholic church that was first built in the 11th century. Be sure to climb the 160-foot bell tower, Tour Pey Berland, for some of the sweeping views of the city.
While these attractions and the ease of access to the oldest parts of the city make it a great stop for history buffs, Pey Berland and Meriadeck have plenty more to offer as well.
With a selection of hip cafes, shops and galleries, younger visitors will also find this a fabulous place to come and have a cool, relaxing break.
Stay in Pey Berland & Meriadeck if you are interested in history, you want to see the more hip side of the city, you want to visit museums and some of Bordeauxs most iconic locations.
Quinconces and Triangle DOr make up a small area in the north of Downtown Bordeaux. Situated on the western bank of the Garonne river and featuring attractions like Quinconces Square and the Monument Aux Girondins, it is a fabulous destination for both natural and man-made beauty.
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Bordeaux Chateaux Hotels On The Right Bank
Bordeauxs Right Bank mainly consists of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, though there are many satellite appellations on this side of the river. Starting directly across from Bordeaux high up on the hill of Bouliac, theres charming vineyards that spread out along the river and inland.
Youll notice an architectural difference in the châteaux of the Right Bank, with many built of several buildings surrounding a central courtyard. Another difference is that the Right Bank has hills and even some terraced vineyard, where the Left Bank is entirely flat. With stays on both sides of the river, youll leave Bordeaux truly having gotten a full dose of her personality.
Best For History Lovers
- Five rooms
- 90-120
At the end of the 11th century, on the high plains of Entre-Deux-Mers, a fortified wooden house was built. A few hundred years later, on 15 February 1312, English King Edward II, who was also the Duke of Aquitaine, authorised the construction of a fortified manor house for the Canteloup family on the same site.
That work transformed the wooden structure into Château de Camarsac. By the late 14th century, according to local legend, the château was home to the Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. Edward was the oldest son of Englands King Edward III, and was known for the black armour he wore and his merciless warrior nature.
The 17th century saw one of the regions most imposing dovecotes built at Camarsac, followed by the construction of a courtyard and a residence in the 18th century. Fast- forward to the mid-19th century and the entire castle again underwent major repair work. This enhanced the more decorative aspects, in keeping with the then popular neo-gothic style of construction.
Today the château is home to the Lurtons and their four children. In line with the greener thinking of today, solar panels have been added and a rainwater recycling system, along with five guest rooms in the chartreuse, Clos du Prince, just across the road from the main building. A new project to restore some older parts of the castle will see the creation of two banqueting halls and a terrace on the keep. The work is due to finish later this year.
Château Chasse-Spleen
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