tourism south west france

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The southwest of France includes the Dordogne and Languedoc regions and within those regions, you’ll find lots of variety. This is especially true with the landscapes which include beaches, vineyards, forests, mountains, and fortified villages.

In the Dordogne river valley, you’ll find a blend of natural and man-made beauty with walnut orchards, tobacco plants and cornfields along with prehistoric artifacts and limestone caves. There are also stone fortresses standing guard over the river that once separated Britain and France during the Hundred Years’ War.

The Languedoc region has been home to the Moors, Charlemagne, and Spanish. The Spanish influence is still felt in the area so you can find delicious paella. Although similar to the climate of Provence with the sea and grapes, this area doesn’t get as many tourists so you can be one of the few to explore this gem!

A visit to this part of France offers so much to visitors so whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week … or longer, here are eight great places to visit in southwest France to experience the best the region has to offer as recommended by fellow travel bloggers and us.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in southwest france.

• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Saint-Émilion
• Carcassonne

Places to Visit in Southwest France Map

Bordeaux is well-known all over the world for its wine industry. The surrounding area has been producing wines for well over a thousand years, and it is often said to be the number one wine region in the world. However, there is much more to the city than just wine as many of the buildings are now on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Located on the Garonne River, not far from the Atlantic Coast, meant that Bordeaux flourished as a port city. The wine produced in the local area was shipped inland via the river and also further afield via the ocean.

Bordeaux has come to prominence a few times in French history such as when it became the location of the French parliament during the Prussian War, as well as WWI and WWII.

MUST DO IN BORDEAUX:

• Visit la Cité de la Vin : This “wine theme park” was opened in 2016 and is an immersive museum dedicated to wine. Not only will you read about vineyards around the world, how wine is made and the history of wine, but you will also smell and touch and hear about the process too. Included with the entry is a tasting glass of one of the wines of the world on the eighth floor, to be enjoyed with 360-degree views over the city.
• Do a Walking Tour : Bordeaux is a city best enjoyed on foot. With so much history and all the impressive buildings, a guided tour to learn about them while enjoying the relaxed city is the way to go.
• Visit Miroir d’Eau : If anyone had told me one of my favourite things to do in Bordeaux would have been a pool of water I would have laughed. The world’s largest reflection pool is located in a great public area, and will likely have many people enjoying the area. The water is only two centimetres deep, so children (and adults) can often be found playing in it. Periodically the water drains to reflect the beautiful Place de la Bourse buildings in the background and create an unearthly mist before filling again.

Contribution and Photo from Josie of Josie Wanders

Reviews of Cité de la Vin   |  Reviews of Miroir d’Eau   |    Reviews of Walking Tours

Situated in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region of southern France lies the small city of Pau. Pau is a city that is often overlooked by visitors in favour of larger nearby cities like Toulouse and Biarritz, but it really shouldn’t be. Pau is an incredibly beautiful city, and the lack of other tourists only adds to its appeal.

The reason Pau is so often overlooked is to do with accessibility more than anything else. While Toulouse and Biarritz have plenty of international flights, Pau’s local airport has almost none. To get to Pau, you’ll probably need to fly to another airport and travel the rest of the way by train or car.

Although Pau has existed since at least the Gallo-Roman period, much of the layout and architecture of Pau really came into existence during the Belle Époque. During this period Scottish physician Alexander Taylor recommended the area for its moderate and healthy winter climate, and soon wealthy aristocrats from all over Europe began building villas and other beautiful buildings in the city.

MUST DO IN PAU:

• Château de Pau : Birthplace of former French king King Henri IV, this castle has beautifully decorated rooms with coffered ceilings and gilded walls. Tours are only available in French and Spanish, but you can get a booklet in English.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts : Founded in 1864, this small art gallery is the second most important in the Aquitaine region and houses works from artists like Edgar Degas, Louis-Maurice Boutet de Monvel, and Alfred Boucher.
• Jurançon Vineyards : Wine lovers should visit the vineyards just outside of Pau, which are part of the Jurançon wine region. This wine region, relatively unknown outside of France and wine circles, is famous for its high-quality dessert wines and many of the vineyards offer tours and tastings.

Contribution and Photo from James of This Travel Guide

Reviews of Château de Pau   |  Reviews of Musée des Beaux-Arts  

SARLAT-LA-CANÉDA

The Dordogne region in the southwest of France covers a large area filled with medieval towns, farmlands, chateaus and vineyards. The most famous city is Sarlat-la-Canéda, with a population of just under 10,000.

The town itself dates back to Medieval and Renaissance times and is full of beautiful sandstone buildings, bustling squares, and narrow alleyways that are perfect for wandering. The small old town is pedestrianized and one of the best things to do is to wander and get lost in the maze of cobbled streets.

In the countryside around Sarlat-la-Canéda, you’ll find some of France’s beautiful castles like Château de Beynac and Castelnaud, several of the country’s prettiest small towns like La Roque-Gageac, built into a cliff on the banks of the Dordogne River, and stunning gardens such as Marqueyssac.

MUST DO IN SARLAT-LA-CANÉDA:

• Sarlat Panoramic Lift : View the town from above in the Sarlat Panoramic Lift. The lift rises in the centre of the bell tower of the 14th century Saint Mary’s Church, and with glass walls gives a 360-degree view around the town and rooftops of Sarlat.
• Sarlat Markets : The Saturday morning market in Sarlat is the biggest, with many stalls in the streets surrounding the Cathédrale St-Sacerdos. You can find plenty of French delicacies like foie gras, truffles, and cheeses, as well as other produce and meats. There is a smaller version on a Wednesday, and throughout the rest of the week, you can also attend the smaller indoor market in Saint Mary’s Church, next to the Panoramic Lift.
• Visit the Old Town : You can wander the Old Town yourself, step inside some of the museums, historic churches and gardens, or take a guided tour to learn more about one of the most beautiful Medieval towns in Europe.

Contribution and Photo from Sonja of   Migrating Miss

Reviews of Sarlat Markets   |  Reviews of Old Town

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in France? Check them out here!

Périgueux is the capital of the beautiful Dordogne region in France and is a town with a history that stretches back over 2,000 years to the Roman times.

Whilst many visitors to the Dordogne head to the southern region and visit towns like Sarlat, I’d highly recommend that you look a bit further north and include Périgueux on your visit to the Dordogne!

MUST DO IN PÉRIGUEUX:

• Explore the Town : Found on the banks of the Isle River, Périgueux has a lot to offer visitors. First, there’s fascinating Roman and Medieval history including a tower and an amphitheatre which date from Roman times, as well as a number of old medieval streets and buildings to explore. Just a simple stroll around the relatively compact city centre will reveal many beautiful buildings and streets – as well as lots of places to sit, eat, and watch the world go by.
• Gallo Roman Vesunna Museum : True lovers of Roman history won’t want to miss this museum, found near the town centre. This was built around the remains of a Roman villa and showcases mosaics and many other features of a Roman villa, including the underfloor heating system.
• Saint-Front Cathedral : Another must-see highlight is the domed and turreted Saint-Front cathedral. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and parts of it date as far back as the 10th century. If you’ve visited the Sacré-Coeur atop Montmartre hill in Paris , you’ll definitely recognise the architectural style, as it was based on the Périgueux cathedral!

Contribution and Photo from Laurence of   Finding the Universe

Reviews of Vesunna Museum   |  Reviews of Saint-Front Cathedral

SAINT-ÉMILION

Located in the heart of Bordeaux wine country, Saint-Émilion’s relationship with the grape goes back over 2,000 years. Being on a pilgrimage route meant many churches and monasteries were built in and near the town since the 11th-century; the whole area’s importance to history meant it was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999.

Walking the cobbled streets today you’ll find plenty of surprises to keep you wanting to explore around the next corner, from the historic Petite and Grand Fontaines, ancient city gates, an underground church, or the only Roman keep still intact in the area.

MUST DO IN SAINT-ÉMILION:

• Climb up for a panoramic view : Whether you climb the 32m La Tour du Roy or the 68m bell tower of the monolithic church, you are sure of great views across the town and the surrounding area as well as enjoying a historic monument.
• Underground Tour : Explore all of the town’s underground monuments on a guided tour including the Trinity Chapel with its 14th-century paintings, the amazing monolithic church that is hewn from solid limestone and the largest in Europe, the hermitage and the catacombs.
• Take a Wine Tour : Being in the heart of Bordeaux’s wine-growing region, a tour of the local wineries and vineyards is a great way to spend a morning, afternoon, or maybe a whole day! If wine isn’t your thing, then maybe instead try a macaron (or pair the two). Not the colourful items with filling you are used to, these are the much plainer looking original macarons which Saint-Émilion is credited with inventing, but delicious nonetheless.

Reviews of La Tour du Roy   |  Reviews of Wine Tours

Not far from the Spanish border, almost as far south as you can get in France , Collioure has a strong Catalan culture and was besieged and occupied by the Spanish in 1793.

Its medieval streets and Royal castle have inspired artists such as Matisse and Picasso and it is the birthplace of Fauvism with its strong colours and brushstrokes.

MUST DO IN COLLIOURE:

• Path of Fauvism: This walk will take you to 19 spots where famous paintings by Matisse and Derain were inspired and these artists painted some of their most famous works. At each spot on the walk, there are information panels or you can take a guided tour from the tourist office by reservation.
• Fort Saint-Elme : Walkable from the town in around 30-minutes, though it does require a 140m ascent, Fort Saint-Elme is a well-preserved 16th-century (although a watchtower stood here as early as the 8th-century). Today it houses a museum of arms from Medieval and Renaissance eras as well as stunning views across the Mediterranean and down into Collioure.
• Explore the harbour : From the impressive Royal Chateau which dominates the harbour and offers excellent views of the town, head north to the Church of Our Lady of Angels. This church’s bell tower is the town’s former lighthouse and has an amazing gold altar to admire. Continuing around the bay is the Chapel of St Vincent perched on a rock overlooking a beach and finally on a rocky promontory is an interesting lighthouse on one side of the entrance to the harbour.

Reviews of Fort Saint-Elme   |  Reviews of Royal Chateau

Starting as a trading post by the Romans in 118 BC along the new road between Italy and Spain, Narbonne’s location on major trade routes and links to the sea via the Aude Rive ensured its importance. However it began to decline in the 14th-century partly due to the alteration in the course of the Aude River meaning navigation to the sea became more difficult.

The building of the Robine Canal to retain coastal access via the Canal du Midi meant the city could maintain its links.

MUST DO IN NARBONNE:

• Roman Horrea : Believed to be a Roman warehouse used to store grain, these underground galleries were built around the 1st-century AD and have only been partially excavated for modern-day visitors to explore. They are the only ancient monument in Narbonne they consist of a network of tunnels leading to individual rooms where goods could have been stored.
• Narbonne Cathedral : One of the tallest cathedrals in France and towering over the town, Narbonne Cathedral is nevertheless unfinished to this day. The change in fortune of the town, the requirement to demolish the city wall to finish the cathedral and the arrival of plague amongst other things, meant the building work stopped and was never restarted.
• Les Halles : A feast for the senses, from the architecture of this covered market to the many delicacies within. Spend some time wandering the many shops inside selling basic staples as well as delicious pastries, olive oil, jams, vinegar and local honey. A great place to take back an edible souvenir from your trip.

Reviews of Roman Horreum   |  Reviews of Narbonne Cathedral   |  Reviews of Les Halles

CARCASSONNE

Famous for the tile-based board game of the same name, Carcassonne is the largest walled city in Europe that still retains its defensive wall and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Though the defensive walls were left to decay for many years, they were restored in the 19th-century, though it is said not in a historically accurate manner.

MUST DO IN CARCASSONNE:

• Walk the walls : At three kilometres (a little under 2 miles) a walk around the walls can take a couple of hours as you explore the 52 towers, ascend Bishop’s Tower which straddles both of the cities walls and admire the views.
• Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus : Built over many centuries, from the 8th to the 13th this beautiful church is famous for its central stained-glass window which dates from 1280, making it one of the oldest in southern France. The window contains 16 biblical images including the massacre of the innocents, the flight into Egypt and the Last Supper.
• Cruise Canal du Midi : Just north of the lower town, next to the railway station, you can take a cruise on the Canal du Midi, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise goes through locks and out into the countryside as well as offering wonderful views of the walled city on the hill above.

Reviews of Basilica of Saint Nazarius and Celsus

Looking for more information to plan your visit to France? You may find these articles helpful.

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MAP OF PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTHWEST FRANCE

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15 Best Places to visit in South West France

Planning a holiday in France and looking for the best places to visit in South West France? We’ve got you covered!

South West France is so beautiful. It has so much to offer! You will find some of the most famous wine regions in France , stunning medieval villages, incredible natural landmarks and cute coastal towns .

I grew up in the South West and I know this region so well. It is a very underrated region. When people think of holidays in the South of France, they generally head straight to the French Riviera. Opting for a South-West France itinerary instead is a great way to discover a more authentic french region.

In this article, you will discover the most beautiful places in South West France. This includes famous sites but also some hidden gems!

So are you ready? Let’s discover the best places to see in South West France!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

Best Cities in South West France

South West France is a fairly rural region but you will find a couple of cities there. The biggest cities in the area are Toulouse and Bordeaux.

Toulouse is the capital of the region Occitanie. It’s nicknamed the pink city, “La Ville Rose” because of its red bricks and roof tiles.

If you look at a map of South West France, you’ll quickly notice it’s one of the most important cities.

Although it is a pretty big city, the city centre itself is fairly small. It’s very easy to explore it on foot. As you roam around town, you will discover how lively and friendly Toulouse is.

Here are some examples of things to do in Toulouse :

• Discovering Le Capitole. It’s the main square in Toulouse and is a great starting point. It’s home to the stunning city hall and luxury restaurants.
• Having a picnic at La Daurade. You can sit on the river banks and look at the beautiful views of the river Garonne.
• Visiting museums. The best ones are the Toulouse Museum and Les Abattoirs.
• Shopping in St Georges.  This central neighbourhood is home to dozens of local shops and boutiques.
• Going for dinner in the Rue du Taur . You will find many restaurants in Rue du Taur. Anything you can think of will be there. For drinks, on the other hand, St Pierre, Esquirol and Jean Jaures will be the best places to go to.
• Roaming around the city centre . The best way to explore the city is either by foot or bike. If you want to learn more about Toulouse and make the best of your time there, you can either go on a walking tour or a guided bike tour.

Click here for more information and see the latest prices.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOULOUSE:  The most convenient places to stay in Toulouse are Capitole, Jean Jaures, Carmes, Esquirol and Jeanne D’Arc. The Citadines Wilson Toulouse is great value for money. See latest prices here.

READ MORE: Where to stay in Toulouse (and places to avoid)

Bordeaux is the biggest city in South West France. Famous for being the main wine region in France, it’s also one of the prettiest cities you will get to see. Architecturally speaking, it features a very different style than Toulouse. Bordeaux is a whole new universe.

There are many things to do there and I would recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Bordeaux .

In summer, you will get to see the Water Mirror on the main square, La Place de la Bourse.

It’s also a great place to go shopping. The Rue Sainte-Catherine is a 1.2km pedestrian street going through the historical centre of Bordeaux. It’s literally a heaven for shopping lovers.

ACTIVITIES IN BORDEAUX: Bordeaux is a UNESCO Heritage site. If you want to discover why and everything that makes Bordeaux so special, you should go on a walking tour in Bordeaux.

Once that’s done, the second thing you must do is wine tasting! You can’t come to Bordeaux without visiting the wineries. One of the best places to go to is Saint-Emilion. You can go on a tour from Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion . It includes wine tasting and 2 castle visits! Pretty cool right.

Click here for more information and see the latest prices for the wine tour.

Albi is located about 1h away from Toulouse. It is one of France’s best-kept secrets and a must visit in the south west of France. Particularly known for being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Albi’s most famous attraction is actually the Cathedral Sainte Catherine.

But that’s not the only thing you can see in Albi. Make sure to pay a visit to the Old Bridge, the church quarter and the Saint-Salvi Quarter.

The rest of the city is also very pretty. It features a very authentic southwest style with a lot of red bricks.

ALBI TOURS: Going to Albi is a popular day trip from Toulouse. You can get there by train from Matabiau train station or opt for a private guided tour. Information and prices are available here.

Medieval Towns in South West France

If you love history, you will literally fall in love with South West France. There are plenty of medieval towns! Narrow streets, beautiful churches, historical sites… everything you want is there! Here is a lit of the best towns in south west France.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fortified city located about one hour away from Toulouse. This fairytale town is one of the most famous towns in the south of France. No matter what, make sure to stop there! You won’t be disappointed.

The Citadel, known as the Cite de Carcassonne, is the main attraction. This medieval fortress was added to the UNESCO list in 1997 and is truly remarkable. It’s such a magnificent place. You can visit it any day of the year. It’s a beautiful site and it takes about a couple of hours to visit.

The town itself is very charming as well and the perfect place to grab some food. The typical dish in Carcassonne (although they’ve been fighting with Toulouse over it for centuries) is the Cassoulet. You will find it in every restaurant in town. It’s quite filling but is as authentic as it can get. When it comes to French food , the south-west sets the standard really!

ACTIVITIES IN CARCASSONNE: Visiting the castle is a must-do. Entrance fee applies. You can book it in advance on the official website or on-site. If you are going in summer, it can get very busy and you may need to book it in advance if you want to be sure.

If you want to get more information, you can also add a guided tour. Click here for more information and prices.

If you are looking for some hidden gems in South West France, Figeac should be on top of your list!

Figeac is a medieval town located a couple of hours away from Toulouse. It’s also the birthplace of Champollion, who decrypted the hieroglyph and now home to the Champollion museum.

If you like architecture, you will love Figeac. You can see many very well preserved medieval buildings. Most of them are still in use and are up to 1000 years old.

It’s quite a small town (under 10,000 inhabitants) and you can get around the centre pretty quickly but it’s such a nice place. People are friendly and just roaming around town is an experience in itself!

When it comes to world famous places in South West France, Lourdes sets the standard. This little market-town lost in the Pyrenees is the third most important site of international Catholic pilgrimage after Rome and the Holy Land!

In 1858, Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

The grotto where this happened then became known for being a place where miracles would happen.

Since then, Bernadette was canonised and Lourdes started attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

ACTIVITIES IN LOURDES: Whether you are Christian or not, Lourdes is an extremely interesting town to visit in South West France. There is so much history! If you wish to learn more about it, you should go on a walking tour. You will discover the story of Bernadette, the grotto and the underground basilica! Click here for more information and pricing.

Coastal Towns in South West France

Biarritz is a very elegant seaside town located in the French Basque Country. It’s one of the European royalty’s favourite destinations. Napoleon, Princess Eugenie… many kings and emperor made Biarritz the town it is today.

The long and wide sandy beaches are gorgeous, which makes it a very good surfing destination as well.

We recommend going to the lighthouse. It offers a beautiful view of the beach and the cliffs.

Bayonne is another town in the French Basque Country. Very different to Biarritz, it’s characterized by its medieval narrow streets. It’s also home to the feria of Bayonne.

Every year in July, the festival takes up the whole city for 5 days. Just imagine a giant party with music everywhere and people dancing everywhere.

Every street, every bar, every square… that’s what the feria of Bayonne is.

Saint Jean de Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a fishing town at the mouth of the Nivelle river in the French Basque Country.

The cultural heritage in the town is very interesting but the best thing about it is nature.

You can go on many beautiful walks and get views on some of the most beautiful places in South West France.

Vieux Boucau

Vieux Boucau is a very charming village in the Landes, on France South West Coast. Ideally located between ocean, lake and forest, it’s the ideal place to relax!

Hossegor is located in the French Basque Country. It’s a paradise for surfers! It’s actually considered one of the best places to surf in the world!

While you are there, you should check out the beach La Graviere and the lake, Lac d’Hossegor.

It’s also a very good destination if you want to go partying. Summer evenings are very lively.

Beautiful villages in South West France

Rocamadour is located in the Lot and is also one of the prettiest villages in France.

Make sure to add it to your South West France road trip because this clifftop village is of absolute beauty. So different from anything else you might have seen in the past. The houses were built on the cliffs at the medieval times.

It’s also a very famous religious site as the gothic basilica St Sauveur is home to the relics of Saint Amadour.

Rocamadour is also home to some of the best goat cheese you can find in France.

Gouffre de Padirac

The Padirac Cave is located only 30 mins away from Rocamadour. They can both be combined in one day out if you wish. This chasm is particularly unique.

The entrance looks like a set from Jurassic Park. You will get down the stairs (75m) and then go on a little bark in the cave galleries.

The guide will explain everything and will then take you to more galleries by foot.

This is a very unconventional experience.

Moissac is a beautiful village, mainly known for its Abbey. This Benedicte and Cluniac monastery is pure beauty. Moissac is also one of the main stops on the route of Santiago de Compostela.

So, are you ready to discover the best places in South West France? Let’s go!

Saint Cirq Lapopie

This beautiful medieval village is one of the French favourites and has been elected one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Located at the top of a very steep cliff, Saint-Cirq Lapopie is a very unique place. You will find 13 listed monuments.

It’s a paradise for history lovers. A very picturesque village that you will fall for.

You may also be interested in:

• Where to stay in Toulouse (and places to avoid)
• Things to do in Toulouse
• Best French foods

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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The Undiscovered and Splendid Corner of Southwest France

Tim Stocker Photography / Getty Images

In France's Atlantic corner, Southwest France has everything visitors have come to expect from a top-notch French region: a well-preserved history, fabulous wines, and beautiful rural vistas—plus the sunniest and sandiest beaches in France. Extending from the sparkling port city of La Rochelle all the way to the tremendous Pyrenees Mountains at the Spanish border , you'll find medieval cities, prehistoric cave paintings, and some of France's best vineyards.

Boasting more days of sunshine than most of Europe (an excess of 300 sunny days a year average in Montpellier , for instance), Southwest France is a great destination for spending your days outdoors, whether that means tramping through a national park or trodding through the vines. This region has more parkland than any other in France, including over 200,000 acres in the Pyrenees National Park alone.

France’s Atlantic coastline stretches from Poitou-Charentes in the north all the way down to the Spanish border. The beaches on this stretch of the French coastline are fabulous; long and sandy and running as far as the eye can see. This is the best region in France for surfing, particularly around the chic city of Biarritz , one of France's most popular seaside resorts, which is located right on the border and is only an hour's drive to the Spanish city of San Sebastian .

This region also happens to be one of the major places for nudist and naturist resorts, which are very popular with Europeans.

Port Cities

The main port cities of Southwest France are La Rochelle and Rochefort. La Rochelle is a delightful maritime destination and is sometimes known as the ‘White City’ because of the pale stone that was used to construct the two towers that guard the sheltered harbor.

Rochefort, on the other hand, was once a vital location for the French navy in the 17th century. The city is naturally protected by the Pertuis d'Antioche, a strait between two islands, so it made for the perfect shipbuilding center. This was also the place where the original L’Hermione was built; a warship destined to take General Lafayette over the Atlantic to help the Americans fight the British in the Revolutionary War . A replica of the ship can be found at the maritime museum.

Atlantic Islands

Rochefort is naturally protected by the beautiful islands of chic Ile de Ré , and the traffic-free, more rustic, Ile d’Aix, where Napoleon spent his last days of freedom. Both of these islands are celebrated holiday destinations where you can swim, sail, walk, and cycle around the coastline. Ile de Ré is accessible via bridge from La Rochelle, but Ile d'Aix can only be reached by ferry from La Fumée.

Bordeaux is a vibrant historic city, recently revitalized and now back to its former glory. The city is a wonderful place to base your vacation and has a very good selection of hotels to choose from. With this lovely city as your home base, you can easily spend a few days to a week visiting many of the world-renowned vineyards around Bordeaux .

In the city's immediate surroundings you can also venture into Cognac Country to the northwest, near Saintonge. Or to the south, visit the Landes, the largest continuously forested area of Western Europe.

The Dordogne

Inland from Bordeaux, you'll come into the Dordogne , a well known holiday region, particularly popular with British tourists. It’s a gorgeous region, centered around the unofficial capital town of Perigueux. It’s known for pretty villages, imposing castles, rolling landscapes, and its abundance of foie gras.

When in the Dordogne, you should visit the sacred site of Rocamadour, one of the stops for pilgrims on the route from Le Puy-en-Velay to Spain's Compostela. This village dramatically perched on a mountaintop makes for an incredible photo opportunity. The area surrounding the town is also apt for cycling, hiking, and cave exploration; the Padirac Chasm and Merle Cave are particularly scenic. Also worth visiting in the region are the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac that sit on a hill, overlooking the gently flowing Dordogne River below.

The Midi-Pyrenees

The Midi-Pyrenees takes in much of the province Gascony, an area of fortified towns and traditional French cuisine. As the region's capital, Toulouse is a city most famous for its university and also happens to be the home of aviation in France. From this area, you could also embark on a slow-moving barge cruise along the canal through the province.

The nearby city of Albi is recognized for its extraordinary, red brick cathedral and the impressive museum of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The French painter, best-known for his posters of the Moulin Rouge , was born in the city and spent much of his early life here. The museum is located in a former former fortress and holds over a thousand of the artist's works.

Edited by Mary Anne Evans

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20 Best Places to Visit in the South of France, According to a Travel Writer

Of the 45 countries I have visited, the south of France is my favorite destination in the world. These are the places that keep me coming back.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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I'm a professional travel writer who's been to 45 countries across six continents, and the South of France is my absolute favorite place in the world to visit. If you’re planning on spending a few days in le Midi , this list will help you choose which of the region's many, many highlights — from alluring beaches along the Côte d'Azur to colorful lavender fields and the vineyards of the Luberon —  to include in your itinerary.

• Best tourist destination: Vieux Nice
• Underrated hidden gem: Gordes
• Best for families: Saint-Tropez
• Best for couples: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
• Best for solo travelers: Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole

Read on for my full list of recommended destinations.

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Nice is a vibrant seaside city with a lovely historic core. If Vieux Nice is on your itinerary, begin with a relaxing stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, then wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the pastel-hued facades and shopping for Niçoise soaps. Experience a Provençale market, grab some socca (chickpea pancakes) at one of the outdoor cafes, and soak in the views from Colline du Château before you depart.

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Gordes is one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , with roads and façades that seem to have sprung from the pages of a children's storybook. Unsurprisingly, visitors beeline to this enchanting Luberon village to see its cobbled lanes, white stone buildings, and churches.

Saint-Tropez

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A French Riviera hotspot put on the map by Bridget Bardot and other members of the jet-set pack in the 1960s, Saint-Tropez still sizzles. Sun-kissed holiday goers crowd glamorous beach clubs here, moor their mega yachts in the harbor, shop for breezy linens at the boutiques, and traipse around the old fishing quarter.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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The exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long attracted the attention of artists and jet setters with deep pockets and a desire for privacy. Exquisite villas are obscured from sight by lush vegetation. Pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor define this desirable destination.

Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole

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If you’re interested in the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh, consider a visit to Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole . This is the monastery-turned-psychiatric facility in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence where the tortured Dutch artist sought treatment and famously painted “The Starry Night.”

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Île Sainte-Marguerite lies about half a mile off the coast of Cannes. In contrast to its mainland neighbor, the largest of the Lérins Islands is small, slow-paced, and steeped in nature. Expect rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, as well as a very interesting underwater sculpture museum featuring works by Jason deCaires Taylor.

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It’s not hard to find enchanting hilltop towns in Provence. The enduring charm of Mougins that once lured Edith Piaf and Christian Dior enamors all who visit. This medieval village features a snail-shaped center with cobbled lanes and flower-clad houses, plus large-scale art sculptures and award-winning restaurants that overlook the leafy countryside.

Oppède le Vieux

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In stark contrast to the Disneyland-like atmosphere of Gordes, Oppède le Vieux is an under-the-radar village that’s built atop rocks and surrounded by overgrown trees. The stone pathways, steps, and structures here are in various degrees of ruin, which imbues a time-worn charm.

Porquerolles

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Escape to Porquerolles, off the coast of Hyères, for a peaceful respite that can include time lazing on near-empty beaches, swimming in placid tides, sipping your way through vineyards, cycling in the countryside, and wandering through old forts.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Just outside the tourist-trodden center of Gordes lies Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque , a photogenic monastery founded in 1148 by Cistercian monks. Guided tours of the church and cloisters are available throughout the year. When the lavender fields bloom in the summer, the site is at its prettiest.

Plage des Marinières

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Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the French Riviera, crescent-shaped Plage des Marinières , located in the darling village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, is the perfect spot for a day of basking in the sun, strolling across golden sand, and splashing in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Site Archéologique de Glanum

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Named for the Celtic god Glanis, the Site Archéologique de Glanum traces its roots back to 600 BC. At this extensive site just outside the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, visitors can walk through the remarkable surviving remains of both Gaulish and Roman settlements.

Le Sentier des Ocres

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The most iconic and unmissable sight in the Luberon village of Roussilian, Le Sentier des Ocres is a former ochre quarry with walking paths through rust-hued hills. The setting certainly provides spellbinding photo ops.

The Camargue

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Located in the untamed region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta, the Camargue defies preconceptions with its vastly different landscapes. Rather than olive groves and grape vines, you'll find salt marshes and reed beds inhabited by free-roaming white horses and pink flamingos.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender is the emblem of Provence. The fields on the Valensole Plateau that erupt into a fragrant and gorgeous purple bloom each summer are some of the most popular — and photogenic — attractions in the region.

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Fragrance fans are no doubt familiar with Grasse, a French Riviera town in the hills behind Cannes that’s considered to be the perfume capital of the word. Rare roses and jasmine for designer luxury scent makers grow abundantly in this sunny village, which, naturally, is home to many perfumeries.

Palais des Papes

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The standout attraction in Avignon , the enormous Palais des Papes served as a pontifical residence in the 14th century. It's also on the shortlist of the most significant medieval Gothic buildings in all of Europe, complete with ceremonial halls, chapels, a cloister, and frescos.

Mines Bruoux

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Mines Bruoux , located near Gargas, gives visitors the chance to tour a maze-like complex of tunnels and galleries in a 19th-century ochre mine. You will learn about the fascinating mining process as you go. The cool underground temperature also provides a reprieve from the summer sun.

Promenade de la Croisette

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Few places embody French Riviera glamor quite like Promenade de la Croisette. Running along the Mediterranean Sea, the famous palm-fringed thoroughfare is crowned by Palais des Festivals et des Congrès , which hosts the Cannes Film Festival. You'll also find many upmarket hotels, shops, and restaurants here.

Carrières de Lumières

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For an unforgettable experience that speaks to Provence’s artistic pedigree, head to Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence. Housed in an old quarry, this contemporary art center hosts multimedia shows that combine larger-than-life projections of famous paintings and music.

Related Articles

Visiting Southwest of France: The Ultimate Travel Guide

If you are making plans to visit the southwest of France, why not make the most of your trip?

Table of Contents

Venture southwest and discover idyllic French vineyards along with bustling cities like Bordeaux or Toulouse. Additionally, savor quaint medieval villages such as Saint-Emilion in a relaxed atmosphere.

This region is also a melting pot of many local cultures that kept their languages alive – Languedoncien, Basque, Gascon and more – providing an immersive experience into a different world!

Join us as we embark on a remarkable journey to explore the wild west of France! Through this guide, you can uncover the best places to visit and cities to stay in while in southern France. Pack your bags – it’s time for an adventure like no other!

Best cities to settle in Southwest of France

Southwest of France is not very well-know around the world, yet it gathers all the reasons that a destination is worth considering: delicious local cuisine, beautiful beaches, dynamic and touristy cities, medieval picturesque villages, countryside and vineyard landscape, and, to top it off, many splendid Castles.

Thanks to its main cities, the area is very easy to access by plane or train through direct trips. Here are the best cities in the southwest of France to visit.

Visiting and settling in Bordeaux

World famous city considered to be the capital of red wines, Bordeaux is also a beautiful city of which France can be proud of. Blessed with optimum geographical locations, Bordeaux enjoys much sun, the Oceanic coast close by and the Garonne banks.

The high-developed high-speed train network in France makes Bordeaux an easy destination to reach, just 2 hours away by TGV from Paris . It is also well served by its international airport (Bordeaux-Merignac) which is only 12 kilometers from the city.

You can plan settling in Bordeaux at least a couple of day to have time to discover historical monuments and museums, stroll along the quays, but most of all: try some wine tourism experiences even if you are not a big Bordeaux wine connoisseurs. Discover our selection of accommodations in Bordeaux.

The Bordeaux Wine Museum is the highlight of the city’s activities: located on the Chartrons district, this peculiar museum offers many insightful wine activities. Discover more on things to do in Bordeaux in this dedicated article ! It can also be interesting to book a Bordeaux wine tour !

Don’t hesitate to stroll along the Médoc Wine Route and discover Most Beautiful Wine Châteaux !

Visiting and settling in Toulouse

Also known as the “ Pink City ” for the terra-cotta color brick used to build the entire cit, Toulouse is one of these French spots you want to explore. You can also plan staying a few days just in Toulouse, as there is much to see from the Saint Sernin Basilica , walks around the Garden plants, the Capitol Square or the Canal du Midi , and visits to the Natural History Museum and the City of Space . It’s a lot of fun to rend a boat – for which you don’t need a license – to cruise around the Canal du Midi!

For food fanatics, Toulouse is a true paradise. From the iconic Cassoulet to gourmet dishes such as Fois Gras or Canard Confit, your tastebuds will never be bored! And if you’re looking for the perfect spot in town, head over to Rue du Taur where you’ll find everything from street markets to exquisite restaurants. The city also reflects its southern French culture and traditions; it’s no wonder why so many people choose this beautiful place as their home away from home!

Toulouse great city to settle in with friends or family, and is the reflection of the region’s slower lifestyle rhythm. You’ll enjoy local traditions and be immersed in southwestern France’s ambiance. Check it this dedicated article to know more about things to do and see in Toulouse during your stay!

What to do and see in Southwest of France? 6 ideas for a perfect stay

Blessed with a heavenly climate and a diversity in landscape, from the Oceanic coast to the Pyrenees Mountains, South west of France is not short of activities for locals and tourists.

Here are 6 ideas of best activities you could do during your trip in South west of France, so you can make the most of your stay and have an amazing time in this rich and beautiful region!

1. Surf on the Atlantic ocean in Biarritz

Te city of Biarritz, right on the seaside, will make discover the French Basque Country and all its cultural traditions – from cuisine to local activities and language. It would be like traveling to another country in just one day!

Gorgeous sandy beaches makes this elegant city all the more attractive for a tourist destination, where French people like it a lot for surfing. Historically, it was also one of European royalty’s favorite destination for spending holidays!

If you do like surfing, best areas are Côte des Basques, La Grande Plage and all along the north side of the lighthouse.

2. Enjoy the Catalan culture of Collioure

Located very close to the principality of Andorra and the Spanish border, beautiful Collioure is a true heaven of peace between land and sea. Only 25 minutes away by train from Perpignan , this small French town will be a highlight of your trip in Southwest of France – where its turquoise water, cute quays and atypical vineyards always delight tourists and locals.

In a nutshell, here’s what you’ll be happy to explore:

• Notre-Dame des Anges church
• Royal Caslte
• Fort Saint-Elme
• Maison du Fauvisme

And plenty more. Discover more of what’s not to miss in Collioure !

3. Visit Medieval picturesque villages

Carcassonne.

Have you heard of the marvelous Carcassonne Castle , a profoundly fortified French medieval settlement that encapsulates its nation’s vibrant past? Even if it can be densely populated with tourists at times, sightseeing here is an absolute must and promises to bring memorable experiences. Visitors should definitely take time to explore the Medieval City, Saint-Nazaire Basilica, Comtal Castle and Pont Vieux for some truly extraordinary sights!

Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion is also a must when it comes to exploring medieval villages, especially in the Médoc area – as it bears the name of one of most prestigious red wines in the world. Not too far away from Bordeaux and close to Bergerac , this picturesque town will bring back in the past and capture your heart – it is one of the best places to visit in southwest of France. The three unmissable places to see there are the Monolithic Church, the King’s Tower and the Collegiate Chruch.

But of course, you will also come across splendid wine-estates, that open their doors to anyone interesting in their stories and historical heritage.

4. Outdoor adventures around the Pyrenees

I you feel like taking a breath a fresh and clean air for day, the Pyrenees Massif got you covered. Very close to Toulouse, the Pyrenees National Park is easily accessible for a day-hike. It counts many breathtaking trails, among which the top 4 is:

• Montagnon lake
• Les Aiguilles d’Ansabère
• The Cirque de Gavarnie
• La Brèche de Roland

Also, you may be happy to explore the Goerges de Kakuetta , one of the most beautiful natural sites there is in southwest of Franc – right in the heart of the French Basque Country. You can plan on a 4-kilometers day-hike there, where you’ll find plenty of wooden walkways and footbridges to enjoy wonderful waterfalls and views.

5. Visit most beautiful Wines Châteaux in France

The Bordeaux vineyard is home to most of the top beautiful Wine Châteaux there are in France. It would too bad to settle in Bordeaux and not visit some of them! To the delight of tourists and wine enthusiasts, many of these prestigious wine estates open their doors to unveil, through guided wine experiences, their ancient heritage and admirable wine-making know-how, that has been carefully taking care of over generations.

You can visit one or several, the choice is yours! You’ll finally know what make a Bordeaux such a great red wine, details of terroir specificities and anecdotes of family estates. The top Wine Châteaux list is right here:

• Châteaux Pape Clément
• Château La Tour Carnet
• Château de Rayne Vigneau
• Château Suduriaut

6. Exquisite wine tourism on the Médoc Wine Route

While you are planning a stay in the Southwest of France region , you must consider driving on the Médoc Wine Route and visiting the best bordeaux wineries ! This French Wine Route extends over more than 80 kilometers from Bordeaux to the Atlantic Coast, on the west bank of the Garonne river. You’ll be literally immersed into the terroir of world famous wine appellations such as Saint-Estèphe , Saint-Julien , Pauillac , Margaux and Listrac .

On top of being astonished by infinite vine landscape, you will cross most charming villages that bear the names of these appellations. A day-road-trip along the Médoc Wine Route is really a fun adventure to enhance, whether you are a Bordeaux-wine fan or not. You can also stroll along by bike! You’ll be able to discover less villages of course, but the trip will be all the more enjoyable from the simplicity of your ride.

You’ll have the choice to visit tens of wineries along the way, so don’t hesitate to pay visits to wine-growers ready to meet you!

There you go, you have plenty of ideas to plan your amazing trip to the Southwest region of France! From typical villages to dynamic cities, outdoor adventures and wine tourism activities, beach laid-back days and historical sight-seeing, your schedule is already full of highlights. Enjoy that exciting trip of yours!

FAQ & Useful resources

When should i visit south west of france.

South of France is always very beautiful, but it’s even more enjoyable from May to October, when days are long and the sun is shining. High season is of course during the summer, but anytime during this period will be a delight.

What is South West of France known for?

This part of France is mostly famous for its cute medieval cities that are spread over the region. It is also a beautiful land between the coast, sunny valleys and the majestic Pyrenees at the Spanish border.

How long should my trip be in South of France?

You should not be shy to plan spending a full two-week stay in South-West of France, considering you will have plenty to do and see: relaxing sea-days, outdoor tours and hiking in the Pyrenees, sightseeing and city activities… You won’t be deceived!

Where to land in South-West of France?

The biggest airports you’ll find in South-West of France will be the ones of: – Bordeaux: Bordeaux-Merignac international airport – Toulouse: Toulouse-Bagnac international airport – Perpignan: Aéroport Sud de France Perpignan – a smaller international airport.

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20 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Aug 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Just mentioning the "South of France" conjures up images of stylish seaside holidays, complete with private beach clubs, upscale boutique shopping, and fancy gourmet dining. This description fits the French Riviera (especially Cannes, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez), but it's just one aspect of the South of France.

After the French Riviera, the second most-visited area in the South of France is sunny rural Provence . A patchwork of small farms, fields of lavender and sunflowers, and colorful open-air markets characterize the Provençal countryside. There are also fascinating medieval hilltop towns, Roman ruins, and historic cities such as Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Avignon.

Would you like to discover the South of France's less touristy side ? Then head to Marseille for a glimpse of a real working city with a cosmopolitan vibe. Toulon is another authentic seaport with tourist appeal.

In Southwest France, the Basque seaside resort of Biarritz boasts an elegant Second Empire hotel, beautiful sandy beaches, and spectacular coastal scenery. Biarritz also has a superb aquarium and many fine-dining restaurants, as well as trendy bistros.

Slightly off the beaten path, the Languedoc-Roussillon region includes outstanding attractions like the UNESCO-listed fortified city of Carcassonne and the lively university town of Montpellier.

The most undiscovered area in the South of France is the rural Gascony region . This unspoiled countryside is known for its quiet villages and hearty cuisine. Toulouse is the biggest city in Gascony yet has the feel of a small town, thanks to its relaxed and convivial ambiance.

Plan your French sightseeing itinerary with our list of the best places to visit in the South of France.

1. French Riviera Seaside Resorts

2. nice: art museums and beaches, 3. aix-en-provence, 4. historic monuments in avignon & arles, 5. saint-tropez: a charming village with beautiful beaches, 6. the upscale seaside resort of biarritz, 7. the walled medieval town of carcassonne, 8. hilltop villages of provence (villages perchés), 9. the glamorous seaside city-state of monaco, 10. montpellier, 11. lourdes & pyrénées nature sites, 12. marseilles, the calanques & cassis, 13. ancient roman monuments & archaeological sites, 14. unesco-listed albi, 15. toulon & île de porquerolles, 16. the gascony region, 17. bordeaux, 19. the camargue, 20. plage de l'espiguette, map of places to visit in the south of france.

The sunny weather, mesmerizing deep-blue sea, and leafy palm trees give the French Riviera a dreamy quality. Also known as the "Côte d'Azur," the French Riviera delivers fabulous beach holidays with a hefty dose of culture.

During the early 20th century, artists flocked to the Côte d'Azur to capture the sublime scenery on canvas. As a result, many local museums display the works of Renoir, Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, and other painters who were captivated by the coastal landscapes.

Nice is prized for its gorgeous waterfront promenade and art museums, while Cannes is known for private beach clubs and the annual film festival.

Other top resort destinations include Monaco and Saint-Tropez . The French Riviera also has smaller lesser-known towns that are full of charm, such as Fréjus, Antibes, Villefrance-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Èze, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and Menton.

Of all the French Riviera resorts, the coastline near Antibes has the best beaches, especially along the Golfe Juan on the Juan-les-Pins and Cap d'Antibes headland. In this area, there are about a dozen public beaches. The Plage de la Garoupe is the prettiest beach, with a fine white-sand shoreline, but much of it is occupied by private beach clubs during the summertime.

One of the highlights of the Côte d'Azur, the town of Nice deserves special mention because of its charming historic city center and amazing art collections: the Matisse Museum, Chagall Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

With its scenic beachside location, balmy weather, and pleasant Mediterranean landscape, Nice has it all. The centerpiece of Nice is the Promenade des Anglais , a palm-fringed seafront promenade, while the Vieille Ville (Old Town) is a delightful warren of medieval alleyways and winding cobblestone streets.

Surrounding Nice, the sunny Provençal countryside brims with day-trip possibilities, such as Grasse and Fréjus. Within a 30-minute drive are the atmospheric hilltop towns of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Èze , as well as the fetching seaside villages of Cagnes-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer .

Other highlights include the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula and the sea-facing Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, designed to resemble an ancient Greek nobleman's mansion of the 2nd century BC. Both villas are open to the public for visits.

To experience the quintessential lifestyle of southern France, visit Aix-en-Provence. This elegant city epitomizes the Provençal region's character with its open-air markets, bustling outdoor cafés, and refreshing fountains that adorn the public squares.

As in most towns of Provence, the ambiance is slow-paced and relaxing. Aix-en-Provence residents have perfected the art de vivre, with leisurely meals and strolls along graceful tree-lined streets.

Top tourist attractions in Aix-en-Provence are Vieil Aix (the Old Town); the Cours Mirabeau , a tree-lined avenue with many sidewalk cafés and restaurants; and the Quartier Mazarin neighborhood, which was developed in the 17th century.

If you appreciate Post-Impressionist art, visit the Atelier de Cézanne , the studio where Paul Cézanne created many famous paintings. Cézanne was born in Aix-en-Provence and spent his childhood here. The Cézanne Trail gives you a chance to explore the landmarks associated with the artist on a self-guided walking tour.

Discover the cultural heritage of Provence in Avignon and Arles. The UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes in Avignon stands as an awe-inspiring testimony to the grandeur of Christendom during the 14th century.

Avignon also has an outstanding museum of fine arts (the Musée du Petit Palais ), noteworthy medieval churches, and lively festivals throughout the year.

In the heart of Provence, Arles boasts a must-see Roman Amphitheater that was built in the 1st century to accommodate 21,000 spectators, as well as several other Roman-era archaeological sites.

In Arles, it's fun to wander the town to find the landmarks painted by Vincent van Gogh such as the Café du Forum (now called the Café van Gogh) on the Place du Forum . To see more sights painted by Vincent van Gogh, try the Van Gogh Route self-guided walking tour .

Saint-Tropez was just a humble fishing village until 1956 when the film And God Created Woman (starring Brigitte Bardot) made it famous. Scenes from the movie were shot on location throughout the town, including at the Plages de Pampelonne where private beach clubs continue to draw a fashionable clientele.

Today, this alluring beach resort still has the charm of a bygone era with its picturesque old fishing harbor ( Vieux Port ) and quaint historic town center ( La Ponche ). At the Musée d'Histoire Maritime , learn about local fishermen who began traveling beyond the Mediterranean Sea in the 16th century.

Besides its old-world charm and pristine sandy beaches, Saint-Tropez offers interesting cultural attractions . An outstanding collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art is on display at the Musée de l'Annonciade , housed in a chapel that dates to 1510.

To soak up the ambiance of Saint-Tropez, spend time at the Place des Lices . This tree-shaded square features outdoor cafés where you can take in the everyday scenes of men playing pétanque (the Provençal version of bocce ball) and women shopping at the open-air produce market (on Tuesday and Saturday mornings).

If you are outdoorsy, take a hike on the Sentier du Littoral , a trail with superb views of the coastline. The trail begins in La Ponche and continues along a seaside path until Tahiti Plage (beach). Keep in mind that this trail has some rocky areas. Tip: Wear good hiking shoes.

Stunning coastal scenery and elegant architecture distinguish Biarritz from other seaside resorts in the South of France. The town was once a holiday destination for aristocrats and royalty, and for that reason is known as the "Queen of Resorts and the Resort of Kings."

Empress Eugénie (wife of Napoleon III) adored this seaside location in the Basque region because of its dramatic natural beauty. Thanks to the empress and other aristocratic visitors in the 19th century, the little fishing village became a sophisticated and genteel beach town. The regal air of the past is evident in opulent oceanfront mansions and streets named after royalty.

The magnificent palace built for Empress Eugénie now houses the five-star Hôtel du Palais overlooking the Grande Plage , one of the top tourist attractions of Biarritz . The hotel offers sumptuous accommodations and exquisite fine dining.

Even if you don't stay at the Hôtel du Palais , you can splurge on a meal at the La Table d'Aurélien Largeau . This Michelin-starred restaurant serves contemporary Basque cuisine in a lavish Second Empire salon with ocean views.

Carcassonne gives you the impression of stepping into the scene of a fairy tale. Perfectly preserved, this fortified medieval town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The turreted towers lend a Disneyland-like quality.

By exploring the narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets of Carcassonne, you can imagine what life was like during the Middle Ages. Check out the Grand Puits de la Cité , a listed Monument Historique . Townspeople once withdrew drinking water from this 14th-century well.

As early as the 12th century, residents worshipped at the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse , an impressive Gothic monument that is now a basilica. For a peek at a medieval fortress, head to the Château Comtal , where the Viscounts of Carcassonne resided in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Another nearby UNESCO-designated site in the Languedoc-Roussillon region is the Canal du Midi . This 360-kilometer canal was created in the 17th century to link the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

Hilltop villages ( villages perché s in French) encapsulate the old-world charm of Provence. Many of these ancient towns are still enclosed by ramparts, which adds to the magical feeling of being enclosed in a little medieval world.

You will enjoy wandering narrow cobblestone streets and pedestrian lanes to discover small boutiques, fountain-adorned squares, and historic churches. Provençal hilltop villages also will delight you with splendid views of the rural landscape.

If you are traveling by car, you can create a driving itinerary to discover the quaint country villages of Provence, especially in the remote Luberon region , which is designated as a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.

For those based in Nice, several interesting hilltop villages are easy day-trip destinations . These are beautiful little towns, although this area is no longer rural and instead is part of the suburban sprawl around Nice.

It's hard to resist the allure of Saint-Paul de Vence , about a 30-minute drive from Nice. This well-preserved walled town stands high on a precipice overlooking the landscape. The town's quaint cobblestone streets, enticing boutiques, and fabulous views make up for the fact that the village is overrun with visitors even in the off-season.

Beginning in the 1920s, many famous artists were drawn to the beauty of Saint-Paul de Vence, and their work is on display at the Fondation Maeght , two kilometers outside the village.

Along the French Riviera coastline , Èze is a captivating hilltop village (only 12 kilometers from Nice) perched 400 meters above the sea. This picture-perfect village affords sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean and the Cap-Ferrat coastline. Luxurious accommodations are found at the Château de la Chèvre d'Or hotel , a Relais & Châteaux property with a two Michelin-starred restaurant.

A 45-minute drive from Nice in the foothills of the Maritime Alps is the town famous for its perfume factories. Grasse also has a wonderful Vieille Ville (Old Town), full of narrow pedestrian streets, small squares, and historic buildings. To soak up the ambiance and sunshine, stop for a leisurely al fresco lunch on the Old Town's main square (Place aux Aires).

One of the Plus Beaux Villages de France , Gourdon (40 kilometers from Nice) boasts many artisan craft boutiques and an impressive château with gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. From Nice, you can go on a full-day Provence countryside small-group day trip to visit hilltop towns Grasse, Gourdon, and Saint-Paul de Vence as well as the seaside resort of Cannes.

Medieval hilltop villages are scattered throughout the Haut-Vaucluse area of Provence. Two more of France's Plus Beaux Villages are Séguret (10 kilometers from Vaison-la-Romaine) overlooking the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range and Venasque , which affords views of Mont Ventoux.

Presiding above rocky gorges in the Haut-Vaucluse, Monieux has a museum dedicated to truffles, the Musée de la Truffe du Ventoux, and hosts a Medieval Festival in September.

Crillon-le-Brave offers the charm of a quiet hilltop hamlet along with a five-star Relais & Châteaux resort property, the Hôtel Crillon Le Brave .

The Luberon natural regional park in the Haut Vaucluse has many medieval hilltop towns on the Plus Beaux Villages list: Gordes , dramatically perched on a steep promontory; Ménerbes , made famous by Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence novel; Lourmarin , which has a majestic château that hosts cultural events and festivals; Roussillon , built alongside an ochre cliff and surrounded by woodlands; and Lacoste , a tiny village full of art galleries and outdoor cafés.

Also in the Luberon natural park, Bonnieux stands out because of its traditional Provençal market and its fantastic museum devoted to the history of bread, the Musée de la Boulangerie. The town also has an interesting Romanesque church.

Apt is known for its large Provençal market (held on Saturday mornings) and museum of archaeology, while Cadenet has a luxurious boutique hotel, the Auberge La Fenière , with a Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Goût de Bonheur .

Perched on a promontory above the sea, Monaco boasts an impressive ancient castle and splendid coastal views. This dazzling city-state on the French Riviera is home to a royal family with a heritage that dates back to the 13th century.

Just a 30-minute train ride from Nice, Monaco draws fashionable crowds to its high-profile yacht shows, the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco car race, and the Opening Gala at the Opera House.

Even if you only visit for a day or afternoon, you can see many of the highlights of Monaco including the Palais Princier (Prince's Palace), the Musée Océanographique , and the ritzy Place du Casino in the Monte-Carlo district. These top attractions are all within easy walking distance.

Despite being a modern urban city, Montpellier has retained its historic character in L'Écusson (the Old Town) with its jumble of winding medieval streets, elegant squares, beautiful churches, and stately hôtel particuliers (aristocratic mansions).

Encircling L'Écusson, spacious tree-lined boulevards were created by Baron Haussmann (who designed the Grands Boulevards of Paris) in the 19th century, replacing the city's medieval ramparts. The best of the 21st century is seen in Montpellier's sleek tram system with new cars featuring decorations by Christian Lacroix.

An air of trendiness and youthful energy reigns throughout Montpellier, thanks to the university-student population. Buzzing sidewalk cafés and chic gourmet restaurants delight locals and tourists alike.

Densely forested, rolling hills provide an inspiring backdrop for the Lourdes cathedral alongside the rushing Ousse River. Pure spring waters flow into a Grotto where Saint Bernadette received visions of the Virgin Mary. Water from this source is believed to have healing properties.

Millions of pilgrims visit Lourdes annually, making it the biggest pilgrimage destination in France and one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Pilgrims visit the Grotto of the Apparitions, worship at the Basilique Notre-Dame du Rosaire (Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary), and participate in candlelit Marian processions.

One of the top attractions of the French Pyrenees , Lourdes draws many pilgrims who hope for cures to an illness by bathing in the sacred waters. So far, the Catholic church has validated 70 official miracles.

Lourdes is an ideal starting point to explore the Pyrenees Mountains. The UNESCO-listed Cirque de Gavarnie awes you with its spectacular scenery of sheer granite walls and rushing waterfalls. The highest summit (the peak of Mont Perdu ) soars to over 3,300 meters; the Grande Cascade with a 422-meter drop is Europe's tallest waterfall .

An easy walking path at the Cirque de Gavarnie allows you to soak up the scenery of snow-dusted mountains, alpine chalets, and goats grazing on the grass. You'll also enjoy listening to the refreshing sounds of a meandering stream and the chirping of little birds.

To experience an authentic Mediterranean seaport, spend a day or two exploring Marseilles . A bustling harbor explains the city's raison d' ê tre , as well as its rich multicultural heritage.

The Old Town ( Le Panier ) of Marseille brims with historic buildings, artisan boutiques, and authentic restaurants, while the Vieux Port dating back to the 6th century BC is still in use today as a launching point for fishing boats.

A fish market is held every morning at the harbor, and the restaurants around the waterfront are the best places to visit to sample the gastronomic specialty of Marseilles, bouillabaisse (seafood stew). The upscale Restaurant Miramar (12 Quai du Port) is famous for its bouillabaisse.

From the Vieux Port in Marseille, you can hop on a ferry to reach two favorite tourist destinations: the 16th-century Château d'If (fortress) on the île d'If, and the Calanques , a national park featuring white limestone coves filled with seawater. You can also take cruises and private boat excursions to explore the Calanques (coves).

It is even possible to take an Electric Bike Tour to the Calanques from Marseille . This full-day tour traverses the wild terrain of the Calanques with a stop at a beach for swimming and concludes with a visit to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, one of the top tourist attractions in Marseille .

Less than 30 kilometers from Marseilles is Cassis . The pastel-painted houses, picturesque port, and bright Mediterranean sunlight of this Provençal fishing village appealed to Post-Impressionist painters such as Paul Signac, Henri Matisse, and Raoul Dufy, who arrived in the late 19th and early 20th century to paint scenes of the harbor and coastline.

Today, Cassis is a recreational getaway for residents of Marseille as well as travelers who appreciate the charm of a small seaside town. If you would like to visit Cassis and the Calanques as a day trip from Marseille, an organized sightseeing tour is the perfect option.

Both Arles in Provence and Nice on the French Riviera have fascinating ancient Roman ruins, among their other tourist attractions. The Arènes d'Arles was once used for gladiator fights and today hosts cultural performances. In the Cimiez quarter of Nice are the ancient ruins of Cemenelum, revealing vestiges of the Roman baths and amphitheater.

Nîmes in the Languedoc region has some of the most impressive ancient Roman monuments in the south of France. The Arènes de Nîmes , a perfectly designed Roman amphitheater, and the Maison Carrée (Roman temple) are remarkable for their exceptional state of preservation.

An important town during classical antiquity, Orange boasts a UNESCO-listed Théâtre Antique (Roman theater dating to the 1st century). This incredibly well-preserved ancient theater today hosts the renowned Chorégies d'Orange music festival, as well as other cultural events.

In the Haut-Vaucluse area of Provence , Orange is a 30-minute drive away from Vaison-la-Romaine , which is considered one of the Plus Beaux Détours de France (France's official list of places worthy of a detour).

Vaison-la-Romaine has remarkable archaeological sites dating to the 1st century. The old Roman theater of Vaison-la-Romaine is used as an open-air venue for Vaison Danses , an international dance festival that takes place every year in July.

Also in the Haut-Vaucluse area, Pernes-les-Fontaines was founded during the Gallo-Roman era. This relaxing town was named for its many fountains that provide abundant drinking water, a legacy of the Roman heritage.

The historic episcopal city of Albi is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its exceptional architecture and cultural value. An imposing fortress-like cathedral presides over the medieval town.

Founded in the 13th century, the enormous Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile is the world's largest cathedral built from brick. The breathtaking vaulted interior features over 18,000 square meters of frescoes and an ornately decorated Gothic choir with 200 intricate statues. Not to be missed is the Last Judgment fresco, a masterpiece of Renaissance painting.

Housed in the UNESCO-listed 13th-century Palais de la Berbie, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum is devoted to the work of the famous artist, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who was born in Albi. The museum displays Lautrec's distinctive posters, as well as paintings and drawings.

Albi is a worthwhile day trip from Toulouse (a one-hour drive) or combined with an itinerary of other attractions such as Carcassonne (about a two-hour drive).

Toulon is less touristy than other seaside cities along France's Mediterranean coast yet offers plenty of attractions. This characteristic port town has an attractive palm-fringed waterfront, which is full of shops, and restaurants with outdoor terraces.

Highlights of Toulon are the atmospheric Le Mourillon quarter, an old fishing village; the historic harbor including the Porte de l'Arsenal , an 18th-century military building that houses the Musée National de la Marine (seafaring museum); and the astounding coastal views from Mont Faron (accessible by the Téléphérique du Faron cable car).

A traditional Provençal market has been held in Toulon since the 18th century. Today, this market takes place every day (except Mondays) at the Cours Lafayette from 7:30 am until 12:30 pm; vendors sell fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, specialty food products, and Provençal fabrics.

From the Port of Toulon, you can sail away to the dreamy Île de Porquerolles just an hour's ferry ride away. The island features unspoiled natural scenery, sandy beaches, and secluded coves. It's the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Besides sunbathing, the Île de Porquerolles offers opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and mountain biking.

If you really want to get away from all the tourists, go to Le Gers (the Gascony region). This pastoral region in Southwest France is exceptionally charming, yet almost completely undiscovered by travelers.

Unspoiled forests and farmlands blanket the undulating countryside in a colorful patchwork while hilltops are dotted with imposing castles, walled medieval towns, and quiet country villages.

Toulouse is the largest city in the region, but it has a slow-paced, small-town feel. With its sultry climate and sidewalk cafés found at every turn, Toulouse immerses you in a relaxing ambiance typical of southern France.

There are plenty of things to see in Toulouse , including a UNESCO-listed Romanesque basilica and stately civic buildings constructed from the red bricks that earned the city its name, La Ville Rose .

UNESCO has designated the entire historic city center of Bordeaux as a World Heritage Site because of its cultural value and architectural treasures from the Age of Enlightenment. The city boasts nearly 350 buildings that are listed as Monuments Historiques .

Built up along the Garonne River in Southwest France, Bordeaux is a cosmopolitan port town with a heritage that stretches back to antiquity. The city flourished during the 18th century, which explains the coherence of Neoclassical buildings dating to that era.

Among Bordeaux's top tourist attractions are the UNESCO-listed 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-André and the 18th-century Grand-Théâtre, which hosts ballet, opera, and music performances.

Le Var region is a hidden gem of Southern France, nestled between Provence and the French Riviera. Lush woodlands, rolling hills, and farmlands define the landscape of this rural area. The countryside is dotted with historic towns, ancient abbeys, and beautiful villages.

You may visit La Chartreuse de La Verne , a serene Carthusian monastery (and listed Monument Historique ) that is open to the public. You will appreciate the peaceful setting, as well as the monastery's 12th-century Romanesque church and the ceramics (for sale at the monastery's boutique) that are handcrafted by the resident nuns. The boutique is closed on Sundays.

The Abbaye du Thoronet is another 12th-century abbey (classified as a Historic Monument ) hidden deep within a forest of oak and olive trees. The Thoronet Abbey is one of three important Cistercian monuments in the South of France (the others include the Silvacane Abbey and the Abbey of Sénanque in Provence). You may visit the abbey year-round.

The Var region is full of traditional country villages and towns featuring fountain-adorned squares and inviting outdoor cafés. Lorgues is typical with its many fountains, an impressive historic church, an atmospheric medieval quarter, and a weekly open-air market that draws many visitors.

Near Lorgues are two tourist attractions that appeal to luxury seekers and gourmands: the Château de Berne (in the town of Flayosc), a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel set amid vine-cloaked fields and olive groves; and the famous Chez Bruno fine-dining restaurant (in Le Plan Campagne Mariette near the Château de Berne) that specializes in dishes made with truffles.

Sheltered by steep limestone cliffs, Cotignac (23 kilometers from Lorgues) is classified as a Village de Caractère du Var (Village of Character of the Var) as well as one of the Plus Beaux Villages thanks to its lovely ambiance, picturesque streets, and pleasant tree-lined central square.

If you love the great outdoors, be sure to see the Gorges du Verdon in the region's northeastern corner. Part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon , this 700-meter-deep river canyon offers opportunities for swimming, water sports, and hiking.

About a 20-minute drive from Arles, the Camargue is a unique landscape of wetlands, marshlands, beaches, and sand dunes. The Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue is home to wild white horses, Camargue bulls (used in bullfighting), and over 300 species of birds including pink flamingos.

Within the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer delights tourists with its sandy beaches and a wide selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Just outside the Camargue Natural Regional Park are several noteworthy historic towns. Dating back to the 13th century, Aigues-Mortes has its medieval fortifications completely intact. These ancient walls conceal an atmospheric warren of narrow streets, steeped in the ambiance of the Middle Ages.

Salt marshes surround the town of Aigues-Mortes and less than two kilometers away is the Salin d'Aigues-Mortes , where the prized Fleur de Sel de Camargue sea salt is harvested by artisans in the centuries-old manner. At the Salin d'Aigues-Mortes site, you can take a guided or self-guided walking tour of the salt marshes. During July and August, watch workers harvest the Fleur de Sel salt.

The area around the Camargue Natural Regional Park boasts seaside vacation destinations: Le Grau-du-Roi (seven kilometers from Aigues-Mortes), an old fishing village that has been transformed into a modern resort; and Port Camargue (12 kilometers from Aigues-Mortes), which has sandy beaches.

The Plage de l'Espiguette ranks as one of the best beaches in France because of its pristine environment and calm deep-blue seas. This dreamy stretch of white-sand shoreline is a favorite summertime destination in the Languedoc-Roussillon region (a 45-minute drive from Montpellier).

At this wild unspoiled beach, outdoor activities are the main draw. Things to do include swimming, nature walks, horseback riding, kitesurfing, and fishing.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Other Highlights of France : Many travelers begin a vacation in France by visiting the capital city of Paris . The TGV high-speed train takes just over 2.5 hours from Paris to Avignon, a good starting point to explore Provence. For more trip-planning inspiration, read about the best places to visit in France . Other top tourist destinations include Normandy and the Loire Valley.

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15 Highlights of the South West of France You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

The south west of is one of the most popular regions in France and it’s big! You’ll be unlikely to be able to fit in all this beautiful region has to offer in just one trip. So in this article, I’m going to focus on the Nouvelle Aquitaine region which is the heart of the south west of France.

From La Rochelle to Bordeaux to Cognac this region contains a huge variety of delights. It is home to fantastic cities, beautiful beaches, and fantastic wine and spirits. Plus 750 kilometres of sandy coastline. And did I mention how amazing the food is?

Here are 15 highlights of the South West of France that you’ll be dying to experience.

15 Highlights of the South West of France

1. the town of cognac.

This beautiful small town is so charming with its whitewashed houses and walls. I loved strolling its streets. Walk the main and back streets of Cognac and enjoy the charming pale shaded homes and those with colourful tiles. Many of the old houses date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Head down to the Charentes river and stroll along its banks and cross the old stone bridge. Enjoy the colours of the sunset in the gardens of the Hotel de Ville.

This is a town that was made for strolling with a fully charged camera.

2. Visiting Cognac Houses

I had never drunk Cognac before visiting the town and knew virtually nothing about it. I have visited many vineyards, breweries and even a sake house so I thought I had seen it all when it comes to the creation of alcohol. I was very wrong.

The creation of cognac is much more like making perfume rather than wine or beer. The entire process of making cognac as well as the source of the grapes themselves are all under an appellation. This is absolutely a craft rather than a manufacturing process.

Let’s start with a few key facts about cognac the drink. Cognac is mostly made from ugni blanc grapes from the cognac region. These grapes are picked and then double distilled using the traditional Charentais method (which involves copper kettles) to create what is known as the eau de vie (water of life). The Eau de Vie of the Chartren river was legendary in the 1700s and known to produce the best brandy.

The eau de vie is then aged in oak barrels in the region for at least two years before it is then potentially blended with eau de vies from previous vintages. Once the eau de vie is two years old it is classified as VS. At four years of age, it becomes VSOP and at ten years of ageing XO.

Each cognac cellar has an area called Paradise. This is where the houses keep their oldest and most impressive eau de vies. Traditionally, an eau de vie must have been aged for at least 50 years to earn a position in Paradise (I tried one from 1883!).

The appellation for cognac covers 78,000 hectares and the areas within are called Les Crus du Cognac and there are four crus.

More than 216 million bottles of cognac are produced each year. I was surprised to learn that 98% of these bottles leave France and are shipped to more than 150 countries. Cognac is most popular in North America and the Far East, particularly China.

I visited three different cognac houses whilst I was in the region and I would highly recommend doing the same as they were very different experiences. I visited one of the biggest and most well-known cognac houses, Hennessy, one of the few houses that produce its own grapes and own the entire supply chain process and one that is much closer to La Rochelle and whose key point of difference is their blending.

1. Maison Hennessy

The name Hennessy is the first to come to mind for most people when they think of cognac. And my is their house impressive! The tour begins by taking a little boat across the Charente river to the Hennessy Cognac cellars. These amazing cellars are home to barrels of eau de vie from the last 150+ years.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the tour is learning about the many traditions at Hennessy and the processes and procedures that make their cognac so unique. Barrels are rolled by hand in what can be a rather intense process. So each time a worker has produced a row of barrels for the first time flowers are placed on the top barrel – and all of the details of the eau de vie are recorded in chalk on the barrels.

The creation of Hennessy cognac is a fascinating process and very much an art rather than a science. I quickly learned about the master blender and the tasting committee – very much like the nose etc for those who make fragrances.

The master blender of Hennessy is from the Filloux family. Amazingly, the master blender at Hennessy has been from the Filloux family for 8 generations.

Hennessy actually owns only one vineyard and it produces just 1% of their grapes. However, this is where they learn and trial different techniques. The rest of the grapes that they use are from their partners.

After learning all about how cognac is created and stored, I returned to the banks of the Charente river and we headed back to the new Hennessy XO Bar for a tasting. The tasting really brought the process that I had just learned about to life. I was able to taste eau de vie at its pure 70% alcohol stage and then at all the different years and stages of ageing.

Maison Hennessy offers four different tours. The initiation tour lasts 90 minutes and contains a couple of tastings. The XO evolution lasts a bit longer, includes a visit to Paradise and the tasting, of course, includes XO cognac.

The Exception tour lasts two hours, a tasting in a private room and the tasting includes Paradise cognac. And finally, see and taste it all in the half-day from grape to glass tour.

2. Maison Frapin

Established in 1270 in the town of Segonzac, 21 generations of the Frapin family have been wine growers and then distillers of these 240 hectares of vineyards in the Grande Champagne cru.

In addition to its extraordinary line of ownership, the key point of difference of Frapin is that they use only their own grapes. It is unique to harvest, distil and age all on your own estate in Cognac.

Maison Frapin has a wonderful history. In 1889 Pierre Frapin went to the World’s Fair in Paris and became friends with Gustave Eiffel. Eiffel built one of the cellars at Maison Frapin in 1892 that is still used today. And you can see the beautiful cabinet that Pierre received when he won gold at the world’s fair.

I was able to see the process and was lucky enough to be visiting during the harvest season. I saw the grapes arriving and being poured into tanks to be pressed which was quite exciting!

In addition to their spectacular Gustave Eiffel-designed cellar and atmospheric tasting room, another highlight of a visit to Maison Frapin is the beautiful Chateau Fontpinot. The chateau sits in the middle of the many vineyards of Maison Frapin’s hectares in the Grande Champagne Cru. It contains some original furniture and it is sometimes used for special guests.

Maison Frapin offers a one-hour discovery tour that includes tasting four different cognacs. They also offer a two-and-a-half-hour VIP tour which includes a visit to the lovely Chateau Fontpinot as well as the Maison Frapin Paradise.

3. Maison Normandin Mercier

The third Cognac house that I visited was actually near La Rochelle rather than Cognac. If you’re not able to make it to Cognac a visit to Maison Normandin Mercier is a fantastic option. They of course don’t have any vineyards at the house as that would be outside of the AOC. They buy in all of their eau de vie as their expertise is in procurement and blending.

Maison Normandin Mercier dates back to 1872. The current manager and cellar master is the 5th generation of master blenders in this family-owned business. The house has barrels of eau de vie dating back to 1883. The eau de vie from the oldest barrels is still reviewed for use today in the latest cognacs.

The highlight of my visit to Maison Normandin Mercier was their Paradise area. Like all of the houses that I visited, the Paradise area is like something out of a movie or a storybook and it feels like a very special place to visit.

I also loved Maison Normandin Mercier’s Pineau des Charentes and took some home with me. Pineau is 13/ cognac and 2/3 grape juice. It is also aged in oak casks and served cold.

Maison Normandin Mercier offers tours and tastings at 10 or 2:30pm each day but it is essential to book ahead. The classic Secrets tour is fantastic value at just 10 euros (it lasts 90 minutes and your tour guide is the master blender’s sister Audrey). Or for just 24 euros take the Paradise tour. This tour lasts up to 2 hours and includes a tasting in the Paradise area.

3. Enjoy some Cognac Cocktails

When in Cognac, it seems very sensible to enjoy some cocktails that use cognac as their base. I had a wonderful cocktail tasting at the delightful La Luciole cocktail bar. This modern and atmospheric bar is located just over the Charentes river from the heart of Cognac.

La Luciole opened four years ago with a focus on cognac from 80 different houses in the region. The building is modern and very atmospheric. The owner and bartender Guillaume Le Dorner is just delightful and a real expert.

What makes the cocktails at La Luciole so special is the unique touches Guillaume employs. For the Dundee cocktail, the glass is smoked with homemade incense. The Avignon features cognac with homemade chamomille syrup. The glass is smoked in a box with incense and to me, who was raised Catholic, it smelt like mass.

And don’t miss trying a Pinneau spritz. Pinneau de Charentes is made by quite a few cognac houses. It is a sweet white wine that has the texture of white wine but the taste of a sweeter wine. It is kept in the fridge and served cold although not generally with ice nor with a mixer – apart from when it is a spritz.

4. Experience the cuisine in Cognac

La Maison is a lovely modern restaurant imbued with natural light and plants in the heart of the town of Cognac. The decoration is in the style of a traditional Charentaise house with stone walls and terracotta floor tiles.

The menu changes weekly based on the seasons. I had an excellent three-course lunch with the main meal of salmon and an excellent rice pudding dessert with passionfruit.

Poulpette is located just over the stone bridge and the river Charentes from the heart of the town of Cognac. This six-year-old restaurant changes its menu daily. The menu always features two starters, two mains, cheese and a dessert. There is no cold room on site which tells you a bit about the freshness of the ingredients.

The evening I visited the meal started with an amuse-bouche of taramasalata. The starter was a choice between foie gras and miso aubergine Japanese style. I chose the aubergine and it was outstanding.

The main meal choices were flame-grilled duck and cod roasted in lemon. I chose the cod and was delighted. Make sure you book ahead when you visit Poulpette as the dining room isn’t that big and it was very full when I visited.

Cognac also has a charming covered market in the middle of town. Much of it is fresh produce and obviously designed for the locals but it is also possible to buy local wine and cheese and consume them in the seated area of the market.

Where to stay in Cognac

The Hotel Francois 1er hotel has the best location in town. It is located literally on Cognac’s main square in the heart of town. The property became a hotel in 1870. In 1914 Charles de Gaulle stayed at the hotel (it was called Hotel de Londres then) for two weeks after he was wounded in battle. It was renovated in 2012 and converted into a 4-star property.

There are 30 rooms including four suites, the renowned Bar Louise (another great place for Cognac cocktails), a small heated pool, on-site parking, a gym, a massage room, and a hammam with scented vapours. Breakfast is served on the ground floor.

The interior design theme is contemporary but there are some lovely luxurious details like ornate mirrors and wonderful giant doors in the rooms which lead to tiny terraces. The rooms themselves are very large and comfortable. And mine had a great view out to the main square fountain which was perfect for sunrise photos.

Read more Reviews of Hotel Francois 1er – Check Prices and Availability

If you’re looking for a more decadent hotel experience for your stay in Cognac check out the Hotel Chais Monnet and Spa. This stunning modern hotel is on the edge of Cognac and this is where you should stay if you want a serious resort-style experience.

Hotel Chais Monnet is home to a Michelin star restaurant where you can eat dinner in small rooms made from barrels. Spectacular modern art is on display throughout the property.

I had a lovely dinner at their brasserie restaurant, La Distillerie. The restaurant features a very high ceiling with exposed beams and an amazing selection of cognacs. The cognacs are displayed like perfume bottles with colours ranging from pale yellow to amber to almost red.

Read more reviews of Hotel Chais Monnet – Check Prices and Availability

5. Have an Atlantic Coast Spa Experience

One of the most enjoyable parts of my visit to South West France was a lunch and spa experience in Chatelaillon-Plage. This beautiful seaside resort area consists of three kilometres of sandy beaches and a picturesque seafront.

I headed to the delightful La Grand Terrasse boutique hotel. The hotel has a rather magnificent location on the seafront. This means that when you head to its impressive Le Gaya restaurant you will enjoy their outstanding food with some wonderful views and when you head to the spa you can choose to stay around the pool or wander down to the sea.

Let’s start with lunch. Le Gaya reminded me of Soho House French style. The classic wicker seats are in a seaside blue and white and the restaurant makes the most of the view with floor to ceiling windows.

My meal began with foie gras terrine, Pineau des Charentes jelly, sweet onion jam and white peach wedges.

I moved on to red mullet with fennel and chickpeas in a fish soup. I was delighted with both my starter and main but I must say that the highlight of the meal was dessert which was an iced parfait with salted butter caramel fig marmalade. Wow.

After my amazing lunch, I headed to the hotel’s Nuxe spa. I am a big fan of Nuxe. This classic French pharmacy brand is famous for its body oil and the wonderful aromas of its outstanding products. The spa features a thalassotherapy pool with some outstanding jet action.

Post thalassotherapy I head outside to the beach and its many lovely deck chairs and big lounge beds. If you’re so inclined there are steps down to the ocean.

Finally, I enjoyed an incredibly relaxing massage with some fabulous aromas. It is quite difficult to imagine a more enjoyable afternoon than lunch, thalassotherapy and a massage at La Grande Terrasse.

Read more reviews of La Grand Terrasse – Check Prices and Availability

6. Experience the light of La Rochelle

Lovely La Rochelle is insanely beautiful. No wonder this seaside town has attracted artists for centuries. I am always looking for light as a keen photographer and I have seldom seen light as soft, clear and golden as in La Rochelle – particularly in the hour or so before sunset.

One of the most enjoyable things to do in La Rochelle is to explore its 17th-century streets. Many towns have one or two particularly beautiful streets. It appears that virtually all the streets of La Rochelle are very beautiful.

Enjoy the white buildings with white flat shutters or the pale blue shutters on whitewashed houses. Many streets have colonnades or arcades that are made for strolling. In the heart of town near the port are half-timbered houses in shades of pastel. And most of the doors are very photogenic with pretty colours and styling.

I particularly enjoyed Rue de Rambaud, Rue du Minage and Rue des Merciers.

And speaking of light, I discovered a lovely local candle store in my strolling, Bertaud . The business is run by a local husband and wife (she makes the candles, he is in the store) and their candles are made from vegetable wax and local ingredients. They had a whole range of unusual and fresh scents.

7. Visit La Rochelle Harbour

For many years La Rochelle was one of the greatest port cities in Europe. Whilst it may not have the level of wealth and stature that it did in the 16th century, La Rochelle Harbour still has 5,000 moorings and the manufacture of boats is big business in the town. (Local children still spend one week learning how to sail at the age of nine).

And then there is the jaw-dropping beauty of the harbour. Its three towers are extremely well preserved, like the rest of the town. The Chain Tower guarded the entrance to the harbour from foreign intruders. It was named the Chain Tower as it literally had a big chain that attached it to Saint Nicolas Tower and blocked entry to the port. Saint Nicolas Tower held pirates and political prisoners.

The Lantern Tower guided ships from across the Atlantic. All three were built almost 1000 years ago. Today, you can visit all three towers and climb to their tops to experience some fantastic views of the harbour and La Rochelle.

The harbour is also lined with restaurants and cafes but there is also plenty of room for strolling and cycling. The harbour is definitely the heart of La Rochelle.

8. Eat on Rue St Jean du Perot

I have just mentioned that there are many restaurants that line La Rochelle harbour. However, if you want to eat with locals and the French head to Rue St Jean du Perot or restaurant street which is just off the harbour.

Rue St Jean du Perot is filled with charming restaurants and cafes that are all vying for your business. I had an outstanding and great value lunch at La Fleur de Sel.

I visited La Fleur de Sel for Sunday lunch and enjoyed a 3-course lunch for just 23 euros – great value. I started with half a dozen fresh local oysters followed by the fish of the day, monkfish. The fish was lightly grilled in a creamy sauce.

Dessert was a highlight – La Fleur de Sel’s signature caramel mousse dessert.

9. Visit La Rochelle Market

I am a sucker for a local farmer’s market – I just love visiting them. Yes, I am a bit obsessed with food but I also think the local market can provide a real insight into how people genuinely live in that town that goes beyond what can be generally experienced by a tourist.

I loved La Rochelle’s market. It takes place in a 19th-century hall in heart of the old town. It was established in 1834 when it was a meat market. The market is known for its high-quality seafood and there is a lot of it on offer.

There were many oysters on offer at La Rochelle market but I was guided to Huitres Roumegous (in the actual hall towards the back). This stall is now being run by the 7th generation of the family so they now their oysters. If it isn’t too busy they will shuck their oysters on the spot and you can enjoy them.

The biggest oyster is known as number one and the smallest number five. But do remember that flavour and size don’t necessarily have a correlation when it comes to oysters. I even tried my first ever green oyster at Roumegous. It did taste like any other oyster but it looked pretty.

There are many cafes lining the sides of the market hall building. This is said to be a spot frequented by locals and it is a great place to enjoy a coffee on a sunny morning.

10. Cycle around La Rochelle

The best way to explore La Rochelle and the surrounding area is by bike. There are cycle paths all around and through La Rochelle. And if you head to the coast you can cycle south or north along the sea as far as the eye can see. This is also how the locals get around.

I would highly recommend taking a bicycle tour of La Rochelle. I learnt so much about the town during my tour. La Rochelle created the first pedestrian zone in France in 1975. Their very forward-thinking mayor brought in “yellow bicycles” eg bikes for easy hire – far ahead of cities like London.

I also discovered that La Rochelle has a beautiful park, Parc Charryer, which even has an animal garden with deers, ducks, peacocks and long-haired donkeys. Long haired donkeys were popular in La Rochelle when it was rich with salt mines.

Salt producers had to put trousers on their long-haired donkeys as the mosquitos would attack their long hair and when the donkeys scratched themselves to relieve the itch they would spill the salt. Thus the trousers! I would never have known this if I hadn’t gone on the cycling tour!

Where to Stay in La Rochelle

Originally a hospital and a convent in the 17th century, Le Champlain Hotel was actually part of a fairground in the 19th century before it was turned into a townhouse in the mid 19th century. Today the hotel is family-run, third-generation, and its French formal garden dates back to when it was a convent.

The hotel was named after Samuel de Champlain, an explorer from La Rochelle, and the bar is themed around him and his voyages.

Staying at Le Champlain does feel like being in someone’s lovely rather large home. The interior design is a wonderful mix of being true to the hotel’s history as well as keeping things simple and modern. The rooms are beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. Most of all, the staff at Le Champlain are extremely friendly and helpful.

Breakfast at Le Champlain features boiled eggs at different temperatures, fresh bread, local yoghurts and warm crepes and pancakes.

Read more reviews of Le Champlain – Check Prices and Availability

Bordeaux is reasonably often referred to as a mini Paris . It is just as beautiful, easier to navigate and the locals are definitely friendlier. It is home to 362 historic monuments and after Paris, it has the largest number of protected buildings in France. Don’t miss visiting beautiful Bordeaux when you visit the south west of France.

11. Visit Cite du Vin

Cite du Vin opened in 2016 so it is still relatively new. It is located in the new part of Bordeaux near Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas. The extraordinary building was created by architects Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières.

The building’s unusual shape was created by a desire to evoke the soul of wine between the river and the city. It is also meant to evoke gnarled vine stock, wine swirling in a glass and the eddies of the Garonne River.

The exhibits within Cite du Vin have been designed to please everyone from those who know little about wine to connoisseurs. I am probably somewhere in the middle and I learned a huge amount during my visit. In particular, it was able to close my knowledge gaps in several areas.

The museum is broken up into many different ways to learn about wine. Wine can be explored by geography, by colour, by soil, by food pairing and virtually every way you could possibly think about wine.

I spent over two hours exploring the exhibits at the Cite du Vin and could have easily stayed for longer. However, it was time to head up to the 8th floor for a tasting. Every entrance ticket to the Cite du Vin includes a tasting.

Cite du Vin is located in the new area of Bordeaux. Just hop on one of the city’s fab trams and Cite du Vin has its own stop so you can’t miss it.

Pre-book your Skip the Line Ticket for Cite du Vin

12. Visit Bordeaux Cathedral

Bordeaux Cathedrals’ official name is Cathedrale Saint-Andre. This gothic-style cathedral was consecrated in 1096 by the Pope. It hosted two royal marriages. The first was between local girl Eleanor of Aquitaine and the future Louis VII.

Eleanor and Louis’ marriage didn’t last and she went on to marry Henry, the future King of England. The second wedding was between Anne of Austria and Louis the VIII in 1615.

Today there is no charge to enter Cathedrale Saint-Andre. Don’t miss going inside and in particular, don’t miss its stunning stained glass windows.

13. Drink the local wine

You’re in Bordeaux – of course, you are going to drink wine. But which wines should you drink and where should you drink them in the city of Bordeaux. Here is my extremely basic understanding of the wines of Bordeaux. Please just use this to help you get a sense of what’s on offer and do check with the experts!

When it comes to white wine, Bordeaux is best known for its sauvignon blanc and Semillon. They also make sauternes if you like your whites sweet. For those of you who like oaky whites look to the Graves region where they even oak age the sauvignon blanc. For lighter whites head to Entredemers.

Cremant or sparkling wine in Bordeaux is made from sauvignon or rose. A Bordeaux rose is much darker than the classic French rose from Provence and it tends to pack more of a punch.

For red wines, cabernet sauvignon is grown on the left side of the Garonne River. The right side belongs to merlot. However, the red wines of Bordeaux are much more about the blend than any one grape.

A great way to try the wines of the region is to head to the Ecole du Vin de Bordeaux . Located opposite the tourism office, the wine school also has a bar. They only serve wines by the glass and the most expensive is 8 euros. It is also possible to order half-glasses at half the price – a great way to do some tasting.

14. Enjoy the World’s Largest Reflecting Pool

Bordeaux is home to the world’s largest reflecting pool. Miroir d’Eau covers 3,450 square metres and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Its one-inch deep water also provides a fantastic reflection of the beautiful Place de la Bourse that is opposite.

Miroir d’eau was installed in 2006 and has an 800 metre square underground reserve. It allows locals and visitors to walk on water and kids in particular love it and its constantly moving water level.

15. Enjoy as much local cuisine as possible

Bordeaux is not just about wine. There is an extraordinary range of delicious local foods in the city. You’ll want to try as many as possible during your stay.

Let’s start with sweet foods. The one food item you must try when you are in Bordeaux is caneles.

The canele is essentially a little caramelised cake with a soft centre flavoured with rum and vanilla. It starts with an egg yolk and is baked in a copper mould. They are available in a range of sizes and even flavours. The traditional version is flavoured with vanilla and rum.

Bordeaux is home to two chains that battle each other for the title of supreme caneles. La Toque Cuivree looks like a local bakery. Caneles Baillardran is a much more upmarket proposition with fancy packaging to match. Both chains have stores throughout Bordeaux. To really experience caneles you must sample both chains.

The Dune Blanches is a puff pastry that is made with two types of cream in honour of nearby Dune du Pilat. Head to Chez Pascal Dunes Blanches to get the best version of this frothy treat.

Bordeaux is also famous for its outstanding chocolate shops. Try Le Maison Darricau which was established in 1915 or La Guinette. And don’t miss Saunion which is famous for its amazing chocolate-covered cherries that have been bathed in booze.

When it comes to restaurants, there are two fantastic options for trying local dishes. Brasserie Bordelaise first opened in 2008 and now has 10 restaurants throughout the south west of France. Their speciality is traditional dishes of the region sourced from local producers. Don’t miss their ox cheeks.

The traditional country inn La Tupina has been serving traditional fare in the city of Bordeaux since 1968.

The menu is filled with traditional southwest France recipes all built from local produce. I enjoyed local caviar served on potato foam, sole with local cep mushrooms and an outstanding canele with caramel.

For something more modern check out the street food influenced menu at La Gigi . La Gigi opened in 2021 and serves “bistronomic street food” using local products. Don’t miss their unique middle eastern-influenced cannelloni.

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

I had the most wonderful stay at Hotel Particulier . This renovated 19th-century townhouse is classically decorated with contemporary touches. It has an elegant cast iron lift or you can take the beautifully designed staircase up to your room.

I stayed in the magnificent St Emilion suite which was huge. It had an entrance area, dining area, large bedroom with a period marble fireplace, free-standing bath, and shower.

Whilst the design was beautiful, it was also an extremely comfortable room that I looked forward to returning to each night! The bed was large and oh so comfortable with silky soft sheets.

Breakfast is fresh pastries, yoghurt, fruit and bacon eggs. And Hotel Particulier has a fantastic location just a short distance from Bordeaux Cathedral and on one of the city’s tram lines.

Read more reviews on Trip Advisor – Check Prices and Availability

For more information on Bordeaux read my article on 35 Things to Do in Bordeaux You’ll Love

How to get to Nouvelle Aquitaine and How to get around

One of the many benefits of visiting the Nouvelle Aquitaine region is how easy it is to get there and get around. Bordeaux is only a 2-hour high-speed train trip from Paris and La Rochelle is 2 hours and 25 minutes. Bordeaux has an international airport and La Rochelle has an airport and flights that take less than 90 minutes to get to the UK.

Once you’re in the towns of Bordeaux, Cognac and La Rochelle there is no need for a car. However, if you are going to travel around the region (which I would highly recommend) the easiest option is to hire a car . I found it a very easy area for driving (and I normally drive on the left-hand side of the road). Once I got to my hotel I just left the car in the parking lot.

I would highly recommend adding in some time to explore more of the beautiful Nouvelle Aquitaine region in France when you visit Bordeaux. The region is very diverse with everything from 750 kilometres of sandy coastline to the Dordogne Valley, Biarritz. the Pyrenees and much more.

Related Posts:

Things to do in Grenoble

Things to do in Champagne

I covered the cost of my flight to Bordeaux and return flight from La Rochelle. Bordeaux Tourisme and Nouvelle Aquitaine covered all of my costs on the ground – thanks guys . However, this highlights of the south west of France post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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• Your ultimate guide to visiting France

South West , Travel

The perfect south west france road trip: itinerary & tips for planning a road trip in south west france.

Are you planning a road trip in South West France? You’ve come to the right place!

I spent most of my life in this region so needless to say that I think that south west France is one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

There are many reasons to visit southwest France and opting for a road trip is a great way to discover everything this authentic region has to offer.

While public transport is not too bad, it won’t allow you to reach some of the best spots so exploring with a car will definitely enable you to see the best of the best!

There are plenty of things to do when you’re on holiday in south west France, from exploring our beautiful cities, discovering clifftops villages, hiking, kayaking and of course one tasting in the famous vineyards.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your South West France road trip. This includes practical information, where to stay, what to do and of course some insider tips!

So, are you ready to get started with the ultimate South West France road trip? Let’s go!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Planning a road trip in South West France

Before we get started with the itinerary itself, we will give you all the info you need to actually plan your road trip in Occitanie and Nouvelle Aquitaine.

When is the best time to go on a road trip in South West France?

This is a tough question because that really depends on what you’re looking for.

South west France region is known for its beautiful summers with long sunny days, but it can get quite hot during the peak season (July and August). Traffic can also be insanely bad near the coast. However, cities like Toulouse are rather empty.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet or don’t want to deal with the crowds, I would recommend going in May-June or September-October.

Spring and autumn are also beautiful times to visit south west France, with fewer crowds than the summer but still lots of sunshine!

How to get to South West France

You can find airports in most of the major cities in south west France. Toulouse and Bordeaux are the main airports and all have international flights.

You will also find Ryanair airports in Carcassonne and Bergerac (which is handy if you are flying from the UK for example)

For ease and practicality, I recommend flying to Bordeaux or Toulouse . You will be doing a loop and both of these cities have major airports so it’s very convenient.

You will also have more options when it comes to car rentals in these places and can visit the city car-free and then book your car. This will save you a couple of days of rental and carpark.

However, as previously mentioned, Bayonne , Bergerac and Carcassonne are also on the road.

Where to find the best fares?

Here are where you can find the cheapest fares to the airports in South West France.

• Flights to Bordeaux
• Flights to Toulouse
• Flights to Carcassonne
• Flights to Bergerac
• Flights to Bayonne

Renting a car in South West France

Once you have your flight sorted, it’s time to think about renting a car.

Obviously, no good road trip would be good without a car! Also, driving is definitely the best way to explore south west France as public transport will not take you everywhere.

There are many rental companies and most of them can be found at the airports.

That having been said, I would strongly recommend flying to either Bordeaux or Toulouse and exploring the city with public transport for a couple of days before renting your car.

Firstly, a car is not helpful in these two cities. Secondly, it will save you some money since you won’t keep the car for as many days and more importantly, you won’t have to worry about parking the vehicle (which is both a hassle and expensive in these cities).

Finally, renting a car in the city and not in the airport can sometimes work out cheaper but it really depends on what offers they have on which is why you should use a comparison website like Skyscanner to find the best deals.

Click here to find the best prices.

You can also check out these car rental companies since they are really good and sometimes have good offers on Europcar and Hertz .

Renting a car in France is pretty straightforward. You will need a driving license (+ international license if you come from outside of Europe) and a credit card.

If you’re under 25, you might have to pay a bit more for your rental so it’s always worth adding someone over 25 as a driver.

Don’t forget to take extra insurance for peace of mind (or check with your credit card issuer if that’s included). As much as I’d love to say that we are good drivers, let’s be honest, we aren’t really.

PRO TIP: Diesel is much cheaper in France than petrol so if you have the choice, opt for a diesel car.

PRO TIP 2: You will be exploring a lot of small villages which means you’ll also be driving on narrow and bendy roads. For this reason, I wouldn’t advise you to book a large vehicle. In this case, the smaller the better!

Packing list for South West France road

Obviously, it will vary depending on when you go in south west France (hot weather vs cold weather) but this should give you an idea of what to pack for south west france:

• Dresses and shorts if you are visiting in summer
• Jacket – Something like a jean jacket should be enough most of the time.
• A winter coat if you are visiting between November and March.
• A pair of comfortable city shoes such as Converse.
• A pair of hiking shoes – sturdy and comfortable since you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• A pair of sandals/flip flops – for the beach and walking around in the evening
• Swimsuit(s)
• Sunhat and Sunscreen

South West France Road Trip itinerary

Now that you have nailed all the preparations, it’s finally time to start exploring south west France!

Here are all the best stops to add to your South West Road Trip!

Stop 1: Bordeaux

• Recommended length of stay: 2 days

Bordeaux is a great place to start your road trip, especially since it’s home to one of the main airports in the region.

Bordeaux is famous in the entire world for its wine. If you are interested in learning more about the wine and culinary culture in France, there is no better place to start!

The city and its surroundings have a lot to offer so I would recommend allocating at least two or three days here.

Here are some of the best things to do in Bordeaux :

• Visiting the Cité du Vin. If you are a foodie and want to learn more about wine in Bordeaux, heading to the Cité du Vin is a must-do! Here you will find 8 floors of exhibitions dedicated to wine and will get to taste some of the most delicious local wines while admiring the stunning views over the city. Entrance tickets can be purchased here.
• Exploring the old town. It’s full of historical buildings and the perfect place to discover the UNESCO listed monuments. To make the best of this visit, join the local walking tour.
• Eating Canelés. Bordeaux is known as the birthplace of Canelés so make sure to try one while you’re here!
• Going on a cruise on the River Garonne. This is a cool thing to do if you want to discover the city from a unique angle. Prices here.

PRO TIP: If you are planning on visiting the Cité du Vin and taking a walking tour , you should consider taking the Bordeaux Metropole City pass. It includes access to these places as well as 15 other landmarks and you can take public transport for free! It can save you a fair bit of money. See prices here.

Stop 2: Saint Emilion

• Recommended length of stay: 1/2 to 1 day
• Driving time from Bordeaux: 50 minutes (48 km)

Located just outside of Bordeaux, on the way to the beautiful Dordogne, Saint Emilion is one of the most beautiful villages in south west France.

Its rich history and numerous vineyards have made it a popular spot for tourists, especially among wine lovers!

Not only will you get to discover beautiful landscapes but it’s also an excellent place to taste some world-famous wines!

There are several things to do in St-Emilion:

• Visit a local winery and chateau and learn more about the Saint-Emilion grand crus. You can book a tour with wine tasting here .
• Enjoy a leisurely walk in the village and around the vineyards (but don’t walk in the vineyard unless invited).
• Wine themed Escape room. This is the perfect thing to do if you are at least 3 people. The escape room is set in a local vineyard. It includes the game as well as a wine tasting afterwards. It’s so much fun!

Stop 3: Bergerac

• Driving time from Saint-Emilion: 1 hour (58 km)

Your next stop after Saint-Emilion will be Bergerac. You’ve officially made it to the beautiful Dordogne!

Bergerac is a beautiful small town located in the heart of the Dordogne department and on the side of the river Dordogne.

It’s famous for its timber frame houses but also for its wine. This area boasts some of the most famous wines in the world including the delicious sweet Monbazillac.

While you are there, make sure to:

• Go to Notre Dame de Bergerac Church. This gorgeous neo-gothic church is ideally located in the town centre.
• Stroll around the historic centre of Bergerac which is full of winding streets, local shops and beautiful timber-framed houses.
• Visit the Maison du vin. Located in the old town, this is the perfect place to learn more about the wine culture in the area.
• Wine Tasting . Since Bergerac is also famous for its wine, make sure to enjoy a glass or two and book a wine tasting.

Stop 4: Beynac-et-Cazenac

• Driving time from Bergerac: 1 hour (61 km)

After spending some time in Bergerac, it’s time to continue and discover some of the most famous landmarks in the Dordogne.

Your first stop will be Beynac-et-Cazenac, which is just before Sarlat and Les Eyzies de Tayac.

Not only is Beynac one of the ‘plus beaux villages de France’ (most beautiful villages in France) but it’s also home to one of the most iconic medieval castles in France.

The Château de Beynac is located on top of a cliff and overlooks the river Dordogne. From there you can discover breathtaking views of the valley but also the other Dordogne castles such as the Château des Milandes which used to belong to Josephine Baker.

French culture tip: The castle was also featured in the French comedy movie ‘ Les Visiteurs ‘.

It was released in the 90s and stars Jean Reno and Christian Clavier as a medieval knight and servant.

Some of the scenes of the sequel were filmed in the castle.

You’ll understand pretty quickly since most French people come here to actually see the filming location. If you want to watch the movie before you go, it’s available here.

Stop 5: La Roque Gageac

• Driving time from Beynac-et-Cazenac: 7 minutes (5 km)

Just down the road is La Roque Gageac, one of the most beautiful villages in south west France.

This village is built into the side of a cliff and offers some of the most amazing views over the river Dordogne. It’s so unique! You definitely won’t get to see that everywhere.

There are plenty of things to do in La Roque Gageac, such as:

• Stroll around the village and take in the views of the ochre houses and cliffs.
• Visit Château de la Malartrie which is a beautiful castle located on the edge of the village.
• Wander around the exotic garden and Bamboo stand.
• Take a boat ride on the river Dordogne . This is a great way to see the village and to get a closer look at this beautiful place.
• Kayaking . If you like sports and the outdoors then you’ll be in for a treat since this is one of the best places in France to go kayaking . You will get to see the village from the river which is quite unique but you can also keep paddling and see all the castles previously mentioned from the valley.

Stop 6: Sarlat-La-Canéda

• Recommended length of stay: 1 day
• Driving time from La Roque Gageac: 17 minutes (14 km)

Your next stop will be Sarlat-La-Canéda, which is one of the most famous medieval towns in Dordogne .

It’s located in the heart of the Périgord Noir which is known for its truffles.

Sarlat is home to narrow streets, lovely squares and an authentic food market. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you love history and food!

Some of the things you can do in Sarlat-La-Canéda are:

• Explore the old town and take in the beautiful architecture.
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos which is a beautiful gothic cathedral.
• Visit the Manor Gisson
• Have a drink or lunch in one of the lovely restaurants and discover the local dishes (foie gras, truffles…)

If you’d like to learn more about the culinary culture in Sarlat, make sure to join the gourmet tour of the market.

The guide will take you to the best spots and you will get to taste delicious food and wines. It’s an excellent way to learn more about these dishes and delicacies that although locally produced, are famous in the entire world. Click here to see the prices.

Stop 7: Grottes de Lascaux

• Recommended length of stay: 1/2 day
• Driving time from Sarlat: 30 minutes (27 km)

It would be impossible to visit Sarlat without taking a day trip to the world famous Grottes de Lascaux.

Located only 30 minutes drive from Sarlat, in the small village of Montignac, the Grottes de Lascaux are a set of caves that contain some of the most famous prehistoric paintings in the world.

The cave and paintings were discovered in 1940 by 4 teenagers. It opened a few years later to the public before closing again in the 80s.

Unfortunately, the carbon dioxide created by the visitors’ breath and sweat was damaging the paintings.

An exact replica was then created, just next to the original site. It’s called Lascaux IV and is the site that you will visit.

But don’t worry, it’s so well done that you wouldn’t actually know it’s not the original.

In order to visit the Grottes de Lascaux you will need to buy a ticket. Here you have three options:

• Buy your ticket on-site. This is not recommended since it’s unlikely you’ll manage to get one unless you are visiting during the low season.
• Buy your ticket online. You can buy your ticket on the official Dordogne ticketing site here.
• Book a tour from Sarlat . You can also choose to book a tour from Sarlat which includes transport, ticket and a guided tour of the cave. This is also a skip-the-line which means you won’t be losing any time waiting. See prices here.

You will also find a museum which contains information about the discovery of the cave, its history and how it was reconstructed. It’s full of interesting info so don’t forget to check that out.

Stop 8: Rocamadour

• Driving time from Montignac: 1 hour 10 minutes (62 km)

Once you are done with Lascaux, you will start heading south.

You will leave the Dordogne to enter one of the most underrated (but yet, gorgeous) French departments: le Lot.

Your next stop will be Rocamadour which is a famous clifftop village in the South West.

It’s one of the most famous villages in France (as in literally since it’s part of the ‘plus beaux villages de France’ association) and it’s easy to see why. The village is perched on a cliff, overlooking the Alzou river canyon. It’s simply beautiful!

Rocamadour is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in France. It’s known for its Cité Réligieuse which includes several churches and chapels as well as the Black Madonna statue and the stunning Basilica of St-Sauveur.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rocamadour:

• Walk up the ‘chemin de croix’
• Going all the way up to the basilica. The stairs to go up there are not that easy. Traditionally pilgrims would climb them on their knees so you can only imagine how hard it is. If you don’t fancy the walk up, you can take the cable car.
• Eating delicious food. Rocamadour is known for producing some of the best goat cheese in France. They are called ‘cabécou’ and are well worth trying.
• Monkey forest and Rocher des Aigles are both great places to visit with kids.

Stop 9: Gouffre de Padirac

• Driving time from Rocamadour: 23 minutes (16 km)

Located only 25 minutes from Rocamadour, the Gouffre de Padirac is one of the best and most unique places to visit in South West France.

It’s is a natural limestone cave that was formed over millions of years by the action of water on the limestone rock.

The Gouffre de Padirac is one of the largest and most visited caves in France, with over 500,000 visitors a year.

The cave is around 100 metres deep and has a river running through it. This is why it’s so unique. This is not your traditional ‘boring’ cave. There is a river and all visitors get to take a boat trip on the underground river before visiting the cave on foot.

The cave also features impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations.

The visit is split into 3 parts:

• You will walk down in the gouffre (which means hole in French). This part kind of looks like you’re stepping into a Jurassic Park movie set.
• You will go on a small boat and the guide will bring give you loads of information about the underground river while paddling.
• Your guide will ‘park’ his boat and take you all around the cave for further info.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. While there is a front desk there and you technically can buy it on-site, it’s often hard to get tickets.

To avoid any disappointment, book them online.

PRO TIP: Since you will be underground for most of the visit, I always recommend taking a slot just before sunset so you get to see while you’re walking down and then it’s dark while you are in the cave. That’s the best use of your time.

Alternative : If you’re not too much into caves and would prefer to discover more cute villages, you can easily go to Loubressac and Autoire from Rocamadour. It’s a bit closer and they are all adorable places. You can also walk to the waterfall in Autoire (that’s a bit of a hidden gem!).

Stop 10: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

• Driving time from the Gouffre de Padirac: 1 hour 10 minutes (65km)

Your next stop on your South West France itinerary is Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.

This stunning village is located on a cliff overlooking the Lot river and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with photographers.

Also, it’s another ‘plus beaux villages de France’! It is known for its stunning views, charming architecture, and vibrant colours.

Here are some ideas of things to do in St-Cirq-Lapopie:

• Wander around the narrow streets and discover how picturesque and unique this village is.
• Check out the church. It’s located right on the edge of the cliff which is rather impressive.
• Kayaking. You can rent a kayak from Bouziès and opt go kayaking on the river Lot, just underneath St-Cirq. Not only is it one of the best places in France to go kayaking but it’s also a great opportunity to discover the village from a new and unusual angle.
• Check out the Towpath. Le chemin de halage is a path entirely built in the stone of the cliff. It’s super impressive!

Stop 11: Najac

• Driving time from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: 55 minutes (45 km)

Your next stop is another beautiful village but this time it’s located in the Aveyron department.

While it is similar to the other villages you’ve seen, you should start noticing a lot of changes in the landscapes compared to the Dordogne or the Lot. We are heading South!

Najac is also one of the most beautiful villages in France however, it’s not as famous as Rocamadour or St-Cirq-Lapopie. Even the locals don’t even always know about it!

For this reason, it’s the perfect place to visit if you want to add some hidden gems to your road trip in the South West.

This medieval village is incredibly cute and boasts amazing views over the valley. You will also find the castle on top of the hill.

It’s very unique!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Najac:

• Walk around the village and admire the beautiful medieval houses. If that’s something you are interested in, you should pop by the visitor centre first. They organise guided walking tours so you might want to join one.
• Visit the castle. From the top of the village, you can walk all the way down and then back up to the castle. It can be visited inside.
• Go on a hike to see some incredible views over Najac and the valley.
• Kayaking. With the Gorges de l’Aveyron so close, it would be a shame not to try some water sports while you’re here!

Foodie tip: The Aveyron is known for its authentic and traditional cuisine. While you are in Najac, make sure to go to one of the local restaurants and get a menu that includes Aligot.

It’s a local speciality made with potatoes and cheese. It’s delicious!

Also, restaurants in Najac are often quite cheap so it’s a great place to get food if you are on a budget.

Pro tip: Since Najac is rather small, you can choose to spend 1 day or only half a day here. It’s up to you. If you wish to visit both Najac and Cordes on the same day, it’s entirely possible. It depends on how much time you have ahead of you.

Stop 12: Cordes-sur-Ciel

• Driving time from Najac: 30 minutes (26 km)

Located only 30 minutes drive from Najac, Cordes-sur-Ciel is located in the Tarn department and it’s one of the most beautiful villages in France.

It is a fairytale village, perched on top of a hill with stunning views over the surrounding area. It really does look like something out of a storybook!

Fun fact: Sur ciel in French means ‘on sky’. That should give you a good idea of what to expect!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cordes-sur-Ciel:

• Walk around the village and admire the beautiful houses, churches, and narrow streets. The visitor centre also offer walking tour so make sure to check them out.
• Take the mini train. You can find a mini train at the entrance of the village. It takes you all around Cordes and up to les Cabanes so you can enjoy the view. If you are travelling with kids it’s worth considering it.
• Discovering the medieval marketplace. Cordes is one of the best places in France to see examples of ‘halles’. It’s very big and is located in the middle of the village.
• Shopping. Cordes is full of cute local shops with food, jewellery and other crafts. If you want to find unique souvenirs, it will be the perfect place.
• Go for a walk to the view point. The best way to understand why Cordes is named ‘on sky’ is to head to the view point. From there, you’ll get to see the hill and the village. It’s so pretty. It’s also an easy 20-minute walk from the centre.
• Visiting the chocolate and sugar museum. This is a fun and unique place to visit especially if you are with kids. Nothing boring here, just pure fun!

Stop 13: Albi

• Driving time from Cordes-sur-Ciel: 30 minutes (25 km)

Now that you’ve seen many villages in the South West, it’s time to discover some of our beautiful cities!

Albi is a city located in the Tarn department. It’s best known for being the birthplace of painter Toulouse-Lautrec and for its stunning cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city has a rich history and there are plenty of things to see and do in Albi. Here are some suggestions:

• Walk around the Episcopal City and admire the beautiful medieval architecture in the walled area in the heart of Albi.
• Take a guided tour of the cathedral. It’s an incredible building and well worth a visit. You’ll get to discover exactly why it was listed as a UNESCO site.
• Visit the Toulouse-Lautrec museum. This is the world’s largest collection of works by the painter and it’s definitely worth a visit if you are interested in art.
• Have a picnic in the park. There are plenty of green spaces in Albi, so find one that looks nice to you and enjoy a relaxing lunch break.
• Go to Cap’Découverte. This is a super fun theme park located near Albi. You’ll find a bit of everything including an artificial ski slope!

Stop 14: Toulouse

• Driving time from Albi: 1 hour (77 km)

Now it’s time to head to the largest city in the South West, Toulouse!

Toulouse is a vibrant city and there is plenty to see and do here.

It’s a rather ‘young’ city since there are so many students and for this reason, it’s very lively. It is nicknamed the pink city ( La ville Rose ) and is one of the most underrated cities in France.

Toulouse is also a great place to relax and enjoy some good South West food. Here are some suggestions:

• Take a walking tour . While walking around the city centre is a great way to explore, if you can you should join a walking tour organised by the visitor centre. You will learn plenty about the history of Toulouse, the Calas case and the mix of medieval and modern architecture. It can be booked through the visitor centre and is included in the Toulouse Pass.
• Visit the Place du Capitole and admire the beautiful buildings around it, including the city hall and opera house.
• Take a stroll in the Jardin des Plantes and enjoy the quiet green space in the middle of the city.
• Have a picnic at the Daurade. This is one of the best sunset spots in Toulouse and a great place to go for a picnic and drinks in the evening.
• EAT! Toulouse has some amazing food and you’ll be spoilt for choice. Make sure to order a traditional cassoulet!
• E-bike tour. Toulouse is an awesome city to discover with a bike. It’s flat and there are a lot of cycling lanes. For this reason, I’d highly recommend to consider the e-bike tour of Toulouse . It’s good fun and you’ll learn loads!

READ MORE: Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France

Stop 15: Lourdes

• Driving time from Toulouse: 2 hours (178 km)

Now that we are done with Toulouse, we are going to head further south and west and go through the stunning Pyrenees to make a stop in Lourdes!

Lourdes is best known for being a religious pilgrimage site and it attracts millions of visitors every year.

It was recognised as a place of pilgrimage because of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.

However, even if you’re not religious, the city is worth a visit as it’s very pretty and has a lot of history.

Here are some things to do in Lourdes:

• Visit the Grotto of Massabielle , where Saint Bernadette had her famous visions.
• Take a guided tour of the city and learn about its history and the sanctuary. See prices here.
• Visit the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
• Visit the castle. The Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen is a beautiful castle located on a hill in Lourdes. It boasts fantastic views of the Pyrenees and is a great example of medieval architecture.

Stop 16: Biarritz

• Driving time from Lourdes: 1 hour 45 minutes (170 km)

Now we are going to make our way to the Atlantic coast and discover one of the cutest coastal towns in France, Biarritz!

It’s well known for its beaches, surfing and golfing. It’s also a great place to just relax and enjoy the sun and sea. Loads of French people choose it as a destination for their summer holidays and as soon as you get there, you’ll understand why.

Here are some things to do in Biarritz:

• Surf ! Biarritz is a world-famous surfing destination and if you’re interested in giving it a go, there are plenty of schools where you can learn.
• Relax on the beach
• Have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants located on the beach.
• Visit the old town and admire the beautiful Basque architecture.
• Walk to the lighthouse and discover beautiful views of the coast
• Visit les Halles. This traditional market is an excellent place to get food and taste some authentic basque cuisine.

Stop 17: Bayonne

• Driving time from Biarritz: 15 minutes (8km)

After Biarritz, we are going to head to Bayonne, which is only a short drive away.

Bayonne is a beautiful town and it’s well known for its Basque culture and food. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning more about this unique region of France.

It’s also particularly famous for its ferias in July so if you are visiting at this time of the year, it’s worth considering it. If that’s not something you are interested in though, I’d recommend skipping Bayonne altogether since you won’t get to do some sightseeing while it’s on.

Here are some things to do in Bayonne:

• Walking tour. The best way to explore Bayonne is on foot and if you’d like to learn more about the main landmarks, this local walking tour will be ideal.
• Sainte-Marie cathedral. Located in the heart of Bayonne, this gorgeous cathedral is an excellent example of gothic architecture.
• Sample some of the delicious Basque food at one of the many restaurants located in the old town. Bayonne is also known for producing some of the best chocolate in France so it’s worth doing a chocolate tasting .
• Walk along the river Adour and enjoy views of the city.
• Musée Basque. This is the best place to learn more about Basque culture at traditions.
• Going to les Halles. This is the traditional market in Bayonne and one of the best places in town to get food! Here you will find local products and delicious dishes. It’s a great place for lunch and it’s free to visit (you’ll have to pay for your food though but that’s up to you what you choose to buy or not).
• Segway tour. If you’d like to do something a bit different, then you can opt for the segway tour of Bayonne.

Stop 18: Capbreton and Hossegor

• Driving time from Bayonne: 20 minutes (22km)

Calling all outdoor lovers for this one!

After Bayonne, we are going to head south and explore the towns of Capbreton and Hossegor.

These two towns are located on the Atlantic coast. They are well known for their beaches and being one of the best surfing spots in France!

They’re also a great place to just relax and enjoy the sun and sea.

So, if you’d like to try to hit the waves during your holidays in South West France or just want to take a bit of a break and relax for a day, they will be the perfect spots.

You can choose to visit both in one day since they are very close to each other.

Otherwise, you can go to just Capbreton to relax and Hossegor is better for surfing.

Here are some things to do in Capbreton and Hossegor:

• Surfing. As I mentioned before, these towns are world-famous for their surfing and if you’re interested in giving it a go, there’s plenty of schools where you can learn.
• Relax on the beach. Notre-Dame, l’Estacade and la centrale in Capbreton are excellent options.
• Walk to the l’Estacade pier in Capbreton for some beautiful ocean views and romantic atmosphere (especially at sunset).

Stop 19: Dune du Pilat

• Driving time from Capbreton: 1 hour 40 minutes (167 km)

After Hossegor, we will be driving a couple of hours up to the Dune du Pilat.

The Dune du Pilat is a huge sand dune located near the town of Arcachon. At 107 meters high, it’s the highest sand dune in Europe and over 2 million people visit it each day.

If you’re looking for an adventure, this is definitely the place to go. You can hike to the top of the dune and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

Not only is climbing it a unique experience but the views from the top are amazing!

Also, if you are a bit of a thrill-seeker, this is the perfect place to try paragliding!

Stop 20: Arcachon

• Driving time from the Dune du Pilat: 15 minutes (13 km)

After the Dune du Pilat, we will be driving to Arcachon.

This seaside town is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood and architecture. It’s a popular day trip from Bordeaux so you will find loads of locals here.

It’s only 15 minutes drive from the dune so it would be a shame not to check it out. You can also do both in one day. No need to dedicate a day each.

Some of the things you can do in Arcachon are:

• Going to La criée (fish auction). When it comes to seafood, Arcachon sets the standard and the best place to get fresh fish is at the port, in the morning. Fishermen come back and will sell their fish while shouting (crier means to shout in French). You’ll need to go super early in the morning though.
• Explore the town and check out Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Take a boat trip to the Bassin d’Arcachon. This is a natural bay located south of Arcachon is the perfect place to go on a day cruise. You can discover the famous bird island which is home to over 150 species of birds and to the unique cabanes tchanquées.

We hope this article has helped you, now is time to enjoy your amazing road trip in South West France!

You may also be interested in:

• Toulouse 1-Day Itinerary: Exactly How to spend 1 Day in Toulouse, France
• Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France
• 13 Prettiest Villages near Toulouse, France

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Southwest France

The Atlantic coast of France and its hinterland

► Getting to southwest France :

• France Guides
• October 30, 2022

Top 10 Destinations in Southwestern France

Southwestern France is a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the vibrant city of Bordeaux to the stunning Pyrenees mountains, there is much to explore in this corner of the country. Here are our top 10 destinations in southwestern France that should not be missed.

1. Bordeaux

The capital of southwestern France, Bordeaux is a beautiful and historic city with plenty to offer for tourists. Along with its stunning architecture and bustling city center, Bordeaux is also known for its excellent wine production and lush natural scenery. Whether you’re a foodie looking to experience world-class cuisine or a history buff interested in the area’s rich culture and heritage, Bordeaux has something for everyone.

Some of the top tourist attractions in this region include the Basilica of Saint-Seurin, which features some of the oldest surviving portions of the city’s medieval skyline; Le Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, one of France’s most renowned theaters; and Château Pape Clément, a gorgeous 15th-century estate located on what was once the Pope’s vineyards. Whatever your interests may be, Bordeaux is truly a must-see destination for anyone visiting southwestern France.

Here’s the overview map for Bordeaux, click here .

2. Biarritz

Biarritz is a chic seaside resort town located on the Atlantic coast. With its idyllic combination of pristine coastlines, rolling mountains, and charming old-town architecture, Biarritz has long been a popular tourist destination. Whether visitors are looking for a seaside resort or an opportunity to explore the great outdoors, Biarritz truly has something for everyone.

From surfing and sailing to hiking and whale watching, there is no shortage of adventures to be had in this picturesque corner of France. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque place to relax and unwind, make sure to add Biarritz to your list of must-see destinations!

Here’s the overview map for Biarritz, click here .

Bayonne is one of the top destinations in southwestern France. This charming city is renowned for its historic architecture, including its Gothic cathedrals and stone ramparts that date back to medieval times. In addition to its rich history, Bayonne also possesses a vibrant culture, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and festivals taking place throughout the year.

For foodies, Bayonne is also a paradise, boasting some of the best restaurants in all of France. From traditional French cuisine to haute cuisine fusion fare and modern tapas bars, there is something to satisfy every taste in Bayonne. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled vacation with friends or family, there is no better destination in Southwest France than Bayonne. So if you’re planning a trip to this amazing region, be sure to put this dynamic city at the top of your list!

Here’s the overview map for Bayonne, click here .

4. Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion is a picturesque wine-producing village located in the Bordeaux region and is without a doubt one of the top destinations in the country. Known for its medieval architecture, stunning vineyards, and bucolic countryside views, this quaint little town has something for everyone. Whether you want to get lost in the winding streets lined with quaint cafes and boutiques, sample some of the world’s finest wines at one of the area’s many acclaimed vineyards, or just soak up the peaceful atmosphere while walking through nearby nature reserves, a trip to Saint-Émilion is an experience you won’t soon forget.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable getaway that blends old-world charm with modern comforts, look no further than this charming corner of France. You won’t be disappointed!

Here’s the overview map for Saint-Émilion, click here .

5. Dordogne

Located in the southwest corner of France, Dordogne is one of the top destinations in this beautiful region. Known for its spectacular landscapes and charming medieval towns, Dordogne draws visitors from around the world. From the rolling hills and vineyards to the dazzling cliffs and limestone caves, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventure here. And though it offers all the natural beauty of a camping or hiking trip, Dordogne also has a wealth of cultural attractions to explore.

Whether you’re looking for exquisite art and architecture, or mouth-watering local cuisine, Dordogne is sure to captivate and inspire you. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed weeklong adventure, this stunning destination is guaranteed to delight. So what are you waiting for? The next great vacation starts right now! Come discover the magic of Dordogne!

Here’s the overview map for Dordogne, click here .

6. Rocamadour

Rocamadour is a medieval village located in the heart of the Dordogne region. Nestled at the base of a cliffside cliff dominated by a soaring medieval monastery, Rocamadour’s dramatic landscape looms large over the historic center below. Many visitors come to marvel at its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history, which dates back to medieval times.

But what truly sets Rocamadour apart as a premier tourist destination is its natural beauty. With stunning river views and lush green hills as far as the eye can see, this region offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, there’s no better place than Rocamadour. So why wait? Plan your trip today!

Here’s the overview map for Rocamadour, click here .

Cahors is a beautiful medieval city in southwestern France, nestled at the confluence of the Lot and Diège rivers. Known for its epic landscape and rich cultural heritage, Cahors attracts visitors from around the world. Whether you come for the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside or to explore some of Cahors’ many historic monuments, you are sure to be enchanted by this charming French city.

From its grand municipal theater to its age-old cathedrals and bridges, Cahors has something to offer everyone who visits. So if you’re looking for a true taste of France, be sure to add Cahors to your list of top destinations in southwestern France!

Here’s the overview map for Cahors, click here .

8. Sarlat-la-Canéda

Sarlat-la-Canéda is a charming medieval town located in the Dordogne region of southwestern France. This picturesque town is home to a vibrant cultural scene, including some of the best museums and art galleries in France. Additionally, its proximity to some of the country’s most majestic natural landscapes makes it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the rolling hills and towering cliffs of the Dordogne River valley or just want to spend your days wandering through charming cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings, there’s something for everyone in this magical corner of France. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, be sure to put Sarlat-la-Canéda at the top of your list!

Here’s the overview map for Sarlat-la-Canéda, click here .

Located in the region of Southwestern France, Lascaux Cave is one of the most popular destinations in the area. This intriguing cave features beautifully painted murals that date back more than 17,000 years, chronicling daily life and spiritual rituals from a long-forgotten time. With its extensive network of chambers and passages, Lascaux is also renowned for its geology, offering visitors stunning views of rock formations and geological patterns.

Whether you are looking to visit a world-class museum or appreciate nature’s beauty up close, Lascaux Cave is sure to delight you. So if you’re planning a trip to Southwestern France, be sure not to miss this incredible destination!

Here’s the overview map for  Lascaux, click here .

10. Pyrenees

The Pyrenees mountains are a stunning natural wonder that straddles the border between France and Spain. This rugged mountain range stretches for hundreds of kilometers along the border between France and Spain, offering outdoor enthusiasts an abundance of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, scaling treacherous peaks, or whitewater rafting down roaring rivers, the Pyrenees have something to offer everyone.

Along with their stunning natural beauty and abundant resources for outdoor enthusiasts, these mountains are also home to charming medieval villages, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of France. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or a relaxing escape into the beautiful French countryside, the Pyrenees are sure to delight all who visit them.

Here’s the overview map for the Pyrenees, click here .

In conclusion

There you have it! Our top 10 destinations in southwestern France should not be missed. From the vibrant city of Bordeaux to the stunning Pyrenees mountains, there is much to explore in this corner of the country. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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Two weeks in South-West France Itinerary: Occitaine & Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Last Updated on 19th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Wine, world-class food, breathtaking architecture and a little off the tourist track: if you want to see a fresh side to France, then it’s well worth heading West rather than East when travelling to the South. Here’s how to spend the perfect two weeks in South-West France itinerary ; a guide to the best places to visit in the French regions of Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

From the off the beaten path city of Limoges, to the bright lights of foodie Bordeaux, this guide is all about French gastronomy, history, and the best this area of l’Hexagon has to offer. If you’re like me and wish to see the more touristic places, as well as discover a different side of France, then this itinerary is for you!

Limoges, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Beziers all have international airports, meaning that getting to the south of France couldn’t be easier. Budget airlines run to all of them.

While Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Beziers all have public transport to-and-from the airport, it’s worth noting that to reach the centre of Limoges from the airport, you’ll need to order a taxi. Otherwise, all stops along this route are easy to reach via train!

Limoges 

Saint-emilion, carcassonne, montpellier, things to know before visiting south west france for the first time, what if you only have a few days in the southwest of france, enjoyed reading this guide to spending two weeks in south west france itinerary pin it now, read it again later:, suggested itinerary for 2 weeks in south-west france.

Stay: 1 night

Where to stay:  Hôtel Campanile Limoges Centre Gare

The ancient city of Limoges can be found towards the very centre of France, in a place far removed from the sea and surrounded by French vineyards.

Home to a historic city centre, some of the best things to do in this off the beaten path French city include visiting the city’s historic cathedral, as well as wandering around the beautiful timber-framed district of the Quartier de la Boucherie.

While the city is well worthy of your time, most of its key attractions can be seen over the course of a day, meaning that you’ll only need to spend a night in the city.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts is home to lots of local archaeological finds and the Jardin Botanique de l’Eveche is the perfect place to admire the city from above.

Read more: Here’s why you need to visit Limoges ASAP

Stay: 2 nights

Where to stay: Yndo Hôtel

Quite literally known as the wine region of France, once upon a time, Bordeaux was known as the capital of a principality during the 14th-century. And that’s not where the history ends. Instead, the city was known as Burdigala during the Classical Era, and was even part of the Kingdom of England for around three hundred years.

Full of architecture dating back to the Middle Ages as well as an incredible food scene (did I mention that Bordeaux is one of the top foodie restaurants in France?) , you could easily spend several days getting to know the city.

Highlights of Bordeaux include a wine-tasting visit to the Cité du Vin, splashing around in the largest reflective pool in the world, the Miroir d’Eau, and seeing some impressive medieval history (the gothic cathedral and the Porte Cailhau) .

Read more: Hidden gems of Bordeaux, Southern France Essential tour: 2 hour river dinner cruise

Where to stay: Hostellerie de Plaisance

Although you could visit Saint-Emilion as a day trip from Bordeaux, in order to make the most of your time in this fairytale town, I recommend instead spending an overnight in the city so as to soak up as much of the ambience of the place as possible. Surrounded by vineyards, be sure not to miss sunrise or sunset in this stunning place.

Perched atop a limestone clifftop in the Dordogne region, the magical town of Saint-Emilion is known around the world for its world-class wine and no trip to South West France would be complete without a visit here.

Even if you’re not a fan of wine, there are still plenty of things to see and do in the city in the form of catacombs and cobbled lanes.

Read more: Breathtakingly beautiful places to visit in France

Situated on the train line, right between Bordeaux and Toulouse, the often overlooked city of Agen is a historical gem of museums, galleries, and timber-framed houses.

Also home to a hermitage overlooking the city (a nearby viewing platform makes for the best views of Agen), the best-known feature of this tiny city is the Agen Aqueduct, the second longest aqueduct in France.

Just as in Bordeaux, Agen (pronounced ‘ah-gen’) is located along the mighty River Garonne and can be found in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Other highlights of Agen include the city’s frescoed Cathedral, as well as the Musée des Beaux-Arts which is housed within a turreted former Maison Particulier.

Read more: Best things to do in Agen, South West France

Where to stay: La Cour des Consuls

Known in French as ‘La Ville Rose’ , Toulouse is one of the largest cities in France and so merits a two-night stay (or more) within this South-West France itinerary.

So-called because of the pink-hued bricks which are used to construct many of the more famous buildings in the city, there’s no shortage of interesting and quirky attractions when it comes to Toulouse.

Toulouse is best-visited over the course of several days because of the sheer size of the city, as well as the number of cultural sites to see and off the beaten path locations.

Some of the top things to do in Toulouse include wandering around the Saint Sernin Basilica (one of the largest basilicas in Europe) , as well as seeing where the relics of St Thomas of Aquinas now lie in the Couvent des Jacobins.

Read more: Where to find the best secret spots in Toulouse! Essential tour 2.5-Hour Private Walking Tour of Toulouse

Where to stay: Hotel de la Cité

The ancient city of Carcassonne is best known for its historic city centre which was heavily restored (and made more ‘magical’) by the architect Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th-century. Walled, fortified, and now considered a UNESCO world heritage site, no trip to South West France would be complete without a stopover in Carcassonne.

The history of the most famous medieval walled city in France dates all the way back to the Neolithic Period and the place was even used during the Roman period as a fortified location.

Head here, and you’re guaranteed to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time and been transported right into the Middle Ages. Just be sure to bring your camera along- you’ll surely want to snap a fair few photos along the way!

Read more: Breathtakingly beautiful places to visit in France Essential tour: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour of Carcassonne

Where to stay: Hôtel de France Narbonne

Narbonne is a former Roman port city which now lies some 15 km away from the shoreline. What was once a seafaring town is now a historic city filled with cobbled lanes, architecture dating back to the middle ages, and a myriad of restaurants and bistros serving traditional French fare.

Although the town, which also happens to be the birthplace of iconic singer Charles Trenet (search for th song ‘La Mer!’), has little by way of attractions in comparison with larger French cities, the charm of the place lies in its off the beaten track nature.

Narbonne boasts stunning houses and quintessentially French architecture. And I personally have to say that of all the destinations I’ve visited in South West France, Narbonne ranks among my top three favourites!

Read more: The complete Narbonne travel guide!

Where to stay: L’Hotel Particulier Beziers

Best-known for its imposing and fortified citadel-like Cathedral, Beziers is often overlooked in favour of more famous nearby neighbours such as the seaside resort of Agde. However, if you’re looking to see a side of France which fewer tourists venture to, then the city is well worth exploring over the course of a day or two.

Some of the very best things to do in Beziers include wandering around the 9 stepped locks of the Fonserannes (which are now part of the designated Canal du Midi UNESCO world heritage site) , seeing the historic heart of the city, and learning about Cathar history.

Read more: Where to find the best view in Beziers

Where to stay: Baudon de Mauny

Montpellier is one of the larger cities in France, meaning that the city is home to a multitude of bars, cafés, bistros, and cultural attractions. Although the city is sprawling in size, many of the main highlights of Montpellier can be found in the rather condensed historic city centre.

Best-seen on foot, this maze of cobbled lanes, ecclesiastical buildings, and small museums should be seen over the course of several days. While in Montpellier, be sure to also see the Place de la Comédie, where much of the city’s action is centred around. 

On your second day, be sure to make the trip to the fringes of the city to enjoy one of the most beautiful castles in France, Château des Flaguergues.

Read more: Free & self-guided Montpellier walking tour Essential tour: Wine & Food Day Trip to Pic Saint-Loup

Where to stay: Hôtel Jardins Secrets

The Roman city of Nimes can be found in the Occitanie region of France and is filled with Roman ruins. Midway between the Cévennes mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, the town is often referred to as the ‘French Rome’ thanks to its impressive well-preserved Nîmes Arena and the Maison Carée (a stunning ancient building complete with Roman temple facçade).

Essential tour: Pont du Gard, Uzès & Nîmes- 5-Hour Tour with Entry Fees

In more off the beaten path cities such as Beziers and Narbonne, though many people working in the tourist industry will still speak English, you’ll likely want a simple French phrasebook with you like this one if you’re planning to frequent any non-touristy restaurants or cafés.

Although you can rent a car to undertake this two weeks in South West France itinerary, all of the destinations listed within this guide have their own train stations with easy links to the rest of France.

As such, a car is not really necessary, and you most certainly won’t want to be driving in some of the larger cities like Toulouse and Bordeaux. With this being said, if you want to go to smaller off the beaten towns, then you’ll probably need a car. Check here for the best car rental comparisons.

Finally, you’ll want to bring a universal travel adaptor with you like this one as French plug sockets are different from what you’ll be used to back home! Still keen on learning a little about this beautiful region of France? This introduction to the history of France explores l’Hexagon from the time of the Romans, right up until more modern times.

If you don’t have very much time to explore southwest France, then don’t worry. You can still enjoy a few highlights of the region by simply going to one city per day and avoiding a car rental (instead, opt to travel by train). Here is my itinerary for 3 days in southwest France.

3 days in southwest France

It was a sunny French afternoon as our plane began its descent into Beziers, a historical French city first founded by the Romans some two millennia ago.

The clouds parted and I peered out of my tiny plane window. Below me lay a sea of terracotta rooftops, sprawling vineyards, and even the unmistakeable turret of a French château. And just like that, my solo adventure in the South of France had begun…

In the mood for some sun, soaking up a little history and always on the lookout for a good deal on flights, I used Skyscanner’s ‘everywhere’ function last Friday for the following Monday. I wanted somewhere affordable, a little off the beaten tourist tracks, and a location where the transport links were good… And so stumbled in: Béziers.

I must admit that prior to my plane search I’d heard little about the Languedoc (now incorporated into the wider French region of Occitanie) and even less about the cities within it. Apart from a little Cathar history, I knew little of what to expect. However, soon enough my flight had landed and I’d boarded a bus to Beziers, followed by a train to Montpellier.

In actual fact, the Languedoc region is well known for its rich Roman history, stunning vistas, pink flamingoes, and of course, wine production. Picpoul is probably the area’s most famous wine, and it’s well worth noting that Languedoc-Roussillon actually produces more wine than Chile, Bordeaux, and Australia put together!

I spent my first night in the capital of the Languedoc, Montpellier. Characterised by its Haussmannian style architecture, it’s often referred to as the ‘Little Paris of the South’.

While I found it had more of a Southern French feel than I was expecting (everything was incredibly laid back- as were bus times!) , I had a wonderful time exploring the maze of many streets which makes Montpellier so exciting.

On the way to Montpellier, I even managed to spy some of the pink flamingoes that are so synonymous with the region from the train window. Should you opt to visit the Languedoc-Roussillon capital for yourself, look out the window on the train between Beziers and Montpellier, and you’ll also see the fishing town of Sete.

Once in Montpellier itself, be sure not to miss Montpellier’s very own Arc de Triomphe (the Porte du Peyrou), as well as its extensive old town.

Other highlights of the eighth largest city in France include a trip to the suburbs to visit the early 19th-century Château de Flageurgues, as well as wandering through the Montpellier’s many squares- which, more often than not, are filled with small eateries and open-air dining experiences! For more inspiration, check out our suggestions for how to spend one day in Montpellier .

Of all the places I visited during my three days in the Southwest of France, Narbonne was the place that perhaps surprised me the most. First constructed as a trading port during antiquity, silt and sand have since built up in the region to such an extent that Narbonne now sits at least 15 km from the sea.

I selected to stay in Narbonne rather than the nearby coastal city of Sete on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. Luckily, the town’s charming nature and oodles of French coffee shops meant that it was more than worth spending a night in. 

As it turns out, my favourite French wine (which can be bought for as little as €5 at any generalised supermarket in France) is actually bottled in Narbonne! Elsewhere in the city, there’s plenty of Southern French architecture to be spotted: think warm stone and shuttered windows.

Although Narbonne was founded during antiquity, there is little of the Roman architecture left, with the exception of an underground grain house known as the ‘Horreum’. 

Highlights of Narbonne include climbing to the very top of the Donjon Gilles Aycelin , as well as entering the part of Narbonne Cathedral. Or rather, the choir of Narbonne Cathedral! After all, only a quarter of the cathedral was ever built due to financial and logistical reasons.

Best-known for its fortified cathedral and canal locks a little way out of the city centre, Béziers is likely where you’ll fly to should you choose to visit the Languedoc region for yourself.

The city is the birthplace of Pierre Paul-Riquet, who was the mastermind behind the Canal du Midi, an impressive feat of engineering that’s now designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

In the Middle Ages Beziers was also the place where Simon de Montfort first mounted his crusade against the Cathars. Today, Beziers is a busy city with an international airport and easy transport links to the rest of the region.

From there, it’s easy to reach Arles, Carcassonne, and even Paris within a matter of hours. The Southern French city is also widely regarded as the region’s capital of wine production and an annual grape and wine festival is held every October.

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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I’ve done very little international travel (overseas) mainly due to business. I’ve been to Canada a few times, and really enjoyed that as well. I travel Europe mainly via reading articles and visiting sites like yours. I kept thinking once I retired, my wife and I might travel some, but since she has congenital heart failure, that limits her traveling quite a bit. I’m almost 81, but I still enjoy looking at the European countries and the various terrain offered. You do a great job, keep it up… I do pass along your site to a lot of my younger friends and they have made trips based on your various articles. My background (European) is Irish and Italian, but I do love seeing what the other countries offer. The rest of my heritage is Native American.

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Saint Jean de Luz south west of France Wikimedia Commons: Olivier Aumage CC-BY-SA-2.0-fr.

9 Reasons to Visit the Southwest of France

There are hundreds of reasons why you should visit the Southwest of France, but here are our top 9!

For many people visiting France, the Southwest region, which encompasses the Basque Country , will be the highlight of their trip. With beautiful landscapes and fabulous cuisine , there is something for everyone in this part of the country.

Yet, it is not just what first meets the eye that makes the Southwest of France so special. Dig a little deeper and you will find a rich history and fascinating cultural heritage, which permeates the entire region. Relics of what used to be can be found in the architecture and the traditions of the local people. So, open your mind and get ready to explore one of France’s finest regions.

1. The Culture of Food

If you have gone to France in search of some mouth-watering dishes then the Southwest will be paradise. This region is known for having a fantastic ‘ culture of food ’, with many of the dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients . The region produces a fair few different delicacies, a fact which chefs take full advantage of. Dishes you are likely to find on menus in this thoroughly gourmet part of France include foie gras (pate), cassoulet and Arcachon oysters.

A plate of foie gras ( Pixabay )

2. Truffles

When you talk about gourmet food in Southwest France, it is impossible not to mention truffles. The finest black truffles in the world can be found in Périgord, within the Dordogne region . These truffles are used to infuse oil, risotto rice and butter, which are then used to flavour meals. The taste is as unique as it is delicious. Those visiting this part of the country should take the opportunity to learn more about how truffles are harvested and used in cooking.

3. History and Heritage from the Middle Ages

There are quaint medieval towns dotted all over the Southwest of France, particularly in the Dordogne. Here, you will find remnants from the country’s Hundred Years War (which actually lasted 116 years) as well as a plethora of castles that date back to the Middle Ages, which you can explore. If your thirst for castles still hasn’t been quenched, take some time to wander through Cathar Country and admire the incredible fortresses that pepper its landscape.

 People exploring the inside of a castle in Dordogne ( Pixabay )

  4. Duck

One of the most gourmet of all the meats, duck is a big deal in the southwest of France. In Aquitaine, confit de canard – potted duck that falls off the bone – is a traditional dish that dates back centuries. While it used to be a dish for peasants, it has now been placed in the upper echelons of fine gastronomy. Another duck-based dish that has arisen from this region is foie gras, a staple in all French households at Christmas and other special occasions.

5. The Weather

One of the best things about the Southwest of France is the consistently pleasant weather . From March through to October you can be almost sure of sunshine every day, although in spring this comes intermittently with showers. The Basque Country enjoys what are known as Indian summers – that is to say, it stays particularly hot and sunny in September and October.

6. Lots of Beautiful Villages

There is an association in France called The Most Beautiful Villages in France . Just as you might expect from a name like this, the association comprises the most beautiful villages in France. The villages are judged on a number of criteria, one of the main ones being authenticity, and if they pass the test they are enlisted into the association. Today there are 157 villages that have been included in this list. Many of these beautiful villages can be found in the Southwest of France, including Navarrenx, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Aïnhoa and Sare .

Picturesque village along the river in France ( Pixabay )

7. Local Festivals

The Southwest of France is still, at heart, a very traditional part of Europe . This can be seen in the abundance of niche, local festivals that grace the streets every year. One of the biggest fêtes of the year takes place in the tiny village of Espinas and recreates the local custom of haymaking as it was centuries ago. There are also numerous farmers markets and livestock fairs , which give a good indication of the culture in this part of the country.

8. The Landscapes

From the sparkling blue ocean that laps gently on the golden beaches to the majestic slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains , this part of France is every photographer’s dream. Presenting some of the last vestiges of completely untouched nature, there is nothing better than rambling through the great outdoors, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the spectacular scenery.

 Bridge over the water in Dordogne ( Maxpixel )

9. Art de Vivre

Unlike many other parts of the world, the Southwest has refused to adopt the fast-paced lifestyle that is becoming increasingly prevalent around the world. The way of life here is slow and leisurely , with friends and family always coming before work. The atmosphere here, as a consequence, is laidback and the people are happy and stress-free.

Could you ask for anything more on your vacation?

TOURS: We invite you to see some examples of our Basque Country tours , Dordogne tours , and Carcassonne tours . All of these can be customised, based on your preferences.

RELATED: Enjoy the mountain ranges of France

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Travelers Reviews

I have yet another 5-star review to leave because Emilie's trip planning is just that - exceptional! We do not do big trips often and did not have hours to spend online trying to find the perfect B&Bs and restaurants to fit our preferences. Over the course of a few emails, Emilie collected our requests and pieced together an itinerary that was …

I have yet another 5-star review to leave because Emilie's trip planning is just that - exceptional! We do not do big trips often and did not have hours to spend online trying to find the perfect B&Bs and restaurants to fit our preferences. Over the course of a few emails, Emilie collected our requests and pieced together an itinerary that was exactly what we were looking for. There were so many restaurant and excursion recommendations provided and each selection we made did not disappoint. I also cannot say enough great things about the B&Bs. Both were absolutely beautiful and the hosts were hospitable and lovely to visit with. Next time we are back in France, I will not hesitate to give Emilie a call!

We are independent travelers, and usually I do extensive research on Tripadvisor and other websites, and plan our own itinerary. I started doing this for our France section of our trip, and came across Emilie's France Just for You website. End of research ! After an initial inquiry, Emilie totally customised our Normandy and the Loire Valley trip …

We are independent travelers, and usually I do extensive research on Tripadvisor and other websites, and plan our own itinerary. I started doing this for our France section of our trip, and came across Emilie's France Just for You website. End of research ! After an initial inquiry, Emilie totally customised our Normandy and the Loire Valley trip, based totally on our requirements regarding the things we like to do. For seven days we held tightly onto our own little travel book, as we read every page and experienced in person everything on our itinerary. What a unforgetable experience ! Emilie is the most professional travel consultant that I have ever dealt with. Her wealth of knowledge of France is exemplary. I have no hesitation, after visiting Europe on three separate occasions, of giving France for you the highest recommendation possible.

We had the most wonderful two week trip planned by France-Just For You and it delivered more than we expected The quality of the travel package was amazing and every detail was designed to be most helpful for us. We had never stayed in B&Bs before but this trip has opened up more exciting travel options for us than we could have imagined. I would …

We had the most wonderful two week trip planned by France-Just For You and it delivered more than we expected The quality of the travel package was amazing and every detail was designed to be most helpful for us. We had never stayed in B&Bs before but this trip has opened up more exciting travel options for us than we could have imagined. I would not hesitate to endorse France- For You as THE company to go to when planning a trip to gorgeous France

We've just come back from an amazing holiday planned by Emilie. The detailed guide book and all the maps and brochures we received were way beyond our expectations. The information on local customs and language helped us immensely during our stay in France. Emilie was prompt and courteous answering our many questions while planning our custom tour …

We've just come back from an amazing holiday planned by Emilie. The detailed guide book and all the maps and brochures we received were way beyond our expectations. The information on local customs and language helped us immensely during our stay in France. Emilie was prompt and courteous answering our many questions while planning our custom tour. We thoroughly enjoyed our boutique hotel in Paris and all the charming B & B's she arranged for our visits to Normandy and Provence. All of our English speaking hosts were very friendly and helpful and made us feel at home. The day before we were to go home, our flight was cancelled due to the Air France strike. Emilie quickly came to our rescue notifying our travel agent at home and people we needed to contact and booking extra accommodation. We highly recommend "France Just For You" for an incredible holiday experience. Merci beaucoup Emilie!!

Travelers wanting to experience France need look no further than France Just for You. Emilie works very hard to make sure travelers have a care-free, positive, unique experience that they could have never found on their own or with a bus tour group. If you dislike prefabricated group tours, and/or feel unconfident about traveling in a foreign …

Travelers wanting to experience France need look no further than France Just for You. Emilie works very hard to make sure travelers have a care-free, positive, unique experience that they could have never found on their own or with a bus tour group. If you dislike prefabricated group tours, and/or feel unconfident about traveling in a foreign country, Emilie will do all the work for you and you can just enjoy the experience. I wish I could find a similar website for other countries I wish to visit. The guidebook is invaluable, user-friendly, and thorough. All the "off the beaten path" recommendations are great, and the B & Bs that Emilie works with are truly wonderful - which adds so much to a trip. Do NOT HESITATE to use the services of France Just For You.

We had a truly remarkable adventure across France. France Just For You created an amazing itinerary that captured the essence of France. Their planning and support made the trip effortless and enjoyable. Each B&B offered a home like atmosphere and allowed us to meet people across the many different regions of France. We were able to experience so …

We had a truly remarkable adventure across France. France Just For You created an amazing itinerary that captured the essence of France. Their planning and support made the trip effortless and enjoyable. Each B&B offered a home like atmosphere and allowed us to meet people across the many different regions of France. We were able to experience so many different regions and taste the wines and foods of each.

The Women's World Cup was our motivation for going, but it was so much more thanks to Laura and Emelie. There were so many personal touches that made us feel like we were part of a large family. If you want to truly experience France with ease, I highly recommend France Just for You!

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Best Things to Do in Western France

Article written by Elisa This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Those who venture into Western France are rarely disappointed. Whether you plan to spend your holiday sightseeing, surfing, or simply relaxing by the sea, the west of France is an ideal destination.

Mythical Brittany offers immense beautiful sea landscapes, Celtic festivals, magic forests, and mysterious prehistoric sites.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is dotted with great beaches, cities steeped in history, many picturesque villages, medieval fortified towns but it is also a place with mountains, vineyards, and the Landes Forest.

Pays de la Loire boasts a stunning coastline, charming towns, and villages, and other beautiful natural landscapes. Here, we are never far from the Loire River, flowing from east to east across the region.

Last but not least, people who visit Western France will enjoy an excellent and varied gastronomy, some of the best French wines and other famous French drinks .

For this article, we asked some fellow travel bloggers and friends about their favorite things to do in Western France. From Western France cities and top sights to hidden gems, here’s what they suggest.

Hike the GR34 (Brittany)

The GR34 , also known as Le Sentier des Douaniers , is a great way to explore the wild sea landscapes of Brittany with its impressive cliffs, lonely beaches, and picturesque coastal towns. This multi-day hike borders all the coastline of Brittany for over 2,000 kilometers and it is a wonder.

Created in 1791, the path was crossed day and night by customs patrols – hence its name – to prevent smuggling. Having fallen into disuse at the beginning of the 20th century, the trail experienced a second life from 1968, when some hike enthusiasts decided to make it a hiking path. Today, the GR34 is one of the most popular GRs in France and the preferred long-distance footpath of the French.

Add a couple of GR34 sections to your next Western France itinerary and you will want to come back for more!

Suggested by Norbert | France Bucket List

Les Machines de l’Ile in Nantes (Loire Atlantique)

Nantes is a wonderful city in Western France, great for a weekend getaway from Paris. If you visit Nantes you cannot miss Les Machines de l’Ile , the new must-attraction in the city. Located in the industrial wasteland of the Nantes’ former shipyards, on an isle in the middle of the Loire River, Les Machines is an artistic project that brings together a set of crazy machines that seem straight out of Jules Verne’s imagination and Leonardo Da Vinci’s invention.

Ride the Sea World Carousel on the back of the strangest marine creatures or wander around the isle on a crazy elephant who likes to shower all the kids he finds on his way! Finally, visit the Galerie des Machines , where a team of crazy inventors and machinists are creating and testing the new machines for the most incredible project, The Heron Tree . This project (inauguration expected for 2022) consists of a giant metallic and vegetal tree where people will be able to walk along its branches and interact with the different creatures that populate it.

Suggested by Elisa | France Bucket List

Click here to book your hotel in Nantes

Bordeaux (Gironde)

Bordeaux is one of the top cities in Western France, a beautiful city made famous for the wine regions surrounding it. The historic center of the city is a UNESCO world heritage site for its beautiful 18th-century buildings. These buildings reflect the wealth of the city when it was the busiest port in France trading in goods from all over the world in addition to wine. 

When you visit Bordeaux you really need to take a wine tour and sample some of the wines in the region. The Bordeaux Tourist Office is also helpfully next to a small store which sells wine from the region at very reasonable prices. Another must-visit is the  Bordeaux Wine Museum  which is full of interactive and fun exhibits. We took my kids with us and they found the museum fascinating. 

Bordeaux is also known for its local specialty – canneles which are a small pastry with rum and vanilla perfected by nuns in the area more than 200 years ago.  The most famous canelles shop is Ballardran which has multiple locations in the city but the most convenient has to be the store right across from the Bordeaux Tourist Office.

Suggested by Shobha | Just Go Places

Click here to book your hotel in Bordeaux

The Cave Paintings at Lascaux (Dordogne)

Located in the Dordogne region of south-western France, the cave paintings at Lascaux barely need any introduction. Discovered by local teenagers in the 1940s, Lascaux’s cave paintings are probably the world’s most famous and recognizable examples of pre-historic art and one of the best places to visit in Western France.

Although experts still disagree on the exact age of the paintings in Lascaux’s caves, the current consensus places them at about 17,000 years old. There’s a fascinating mixture of art here, including depictions of bulls, horses, cattle, deer, cats, a bear, and even a rhinoceros! Also depicted are human figures, and geometric designs as well. The bulls depicted in the Hall of the Bulls are enormously impressive, up to five meters long in some cases. The area has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

As you’d expect, the cave interiors are highly sensitive and closed to the general public. However, there’s a series of fantastic replica caves located just near the original caves, where you can explore the artwork in your own time, and without fear of damaging the precious originals. To access the site, head for the village of Montignac. Car is the best transport option here, as public transport in the area is very limited.

Suggested by Joel | World Heritage Journey

Sarlat-la-Canéda (Dordogne)

With its honey-colored buildings and lamp lit streets, it’s easy to fall for the  village of Sarlat .

Sarlat is the perfect base to explore the Dordogne Valley.  It takes about 2.5 hours to get there by car or train going east from Bordeaux.

Be ready for foodie heaven.  Sarlat is famous for its foie gras, truffles, cheese, and wine.  Locals gather these delicacies on market days on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

Enjoy getting lost in the impossibly romantic laneways and relax in one of the cafes on the main square, Place de la Liberté.  For a panoramic view of the town, take the glass lift to the top of the bell tower at the church of Saint-Marie (open in summer).

Spring or fall is the best time to visit to avoid the tourist crush. Stay at the lovingly restored Les Suites Sarladaises for a real taste of the past.

Suggested by Cindy | Travel Bliss Now

Click here to book your hotel in Sarlat

Île d’Oléron (Charente-Maritime)

Often overshadowed by it’s glitzier sister (Île de Ré), Île d’Oléron has a more laid back, understated vibe with its white-washed bungalows and low-key beaches. Cycle-ways criss-cross the island, but there is also ample parking should you choose to drive around; the island is 30km long after all.

The lighthouse ( Phare de Chassiron ) at the far tip of the island is a must-do. You can climb to the top for superb views across the Atlantic and back across the island. Entry for the viewing point only is €3 per adult.

The villages across the island don’t really offer much to do unless it’s market day, but they are pleasant to stroll or cycle around and to pick up an ice-cream. Take a visit to La Cotiniere around 3:30 pm when the daily catch is unloaded, or feast on oysters at Saint-Trojan .

As for the beaches, those to the northeast offer views across to the mainland and Île de Ré. Here the water is shallow and calm. On the other side of the island, the waves are a little stronger, but the beaches boast a tropical vibe with clear turquoise water and long stretches of sun-drenched sand.

Suggested by Jenny | Peak District Kids

Click here to book your hotel on Île-d’Oléron

Cairn de Barnenez (Finistère)

The Cairn de Barnenez is one of the first megalithic monuments in Brittany. The Cairn is composed of 11 dolmens, with a length of 70 meters and 10 meters in height. The grave chambers are fully covered and accessible through a covered corridor. There’s a visitor center where objects are displayed, next to that the results of scientific excavation and a large mock-up of the monument.

You enter through the visitor center, after that you walk up the hill on a path, where the monument is. The cairn is surrounded by grass.

The Cairn is located on the peninsula Kernélèhen in Brittany. 17 Kilometers north of Morlaix, just off the D76, in Plouezoc’h.

There’s a combination ticket possible with the Château du Taureau. You can visit the cairn with a self-guided tour, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Guided tours are in French and take 45 minutes.

On the hill, there are benches to sit on, from here you can enjoy the beautiful view of the sea and the Cairn. Further, you can stroll around the monument and go through one opening and walk out on the other side. You have to bend since its just one meter in height.

Suggested by Cosette | Kars Travels

Dune du Pilat (Gironde)

Europe’s largest sand dune, the  Dune du Pilat , can be found hugging the Atlantic coast in Western France. It’s an impressive sight, spanning around 3 km in length, 600 m in width, and a lofty 100 or so meters high. Although, these measurements are constantly changing as the dune ebbs with the tides and gets swept into the nearby forest with the wind.

One of the best day trips from Bordeaux , Dune du Pilat is the perfect place to appreciate the nature on offer in the Arcachon Basin – a place most famous for its colorful Oyster huts and Belle Époque architecture.

To make the most of your visit, arrive early and pack everything you need for the day. There are a selection of eateries and snack bars at the entrance to the dune, but if you decide to venture up and over the expanse of sand to the seaside, you won’t want to be ‘popping back’ just for an ice cream!

Adventure seekers may like to book in for a paraglide over the dune to gain a bird’s eye view, while families can take advantage of the campsites on-site to extend their stay…

Suggested by Nadine | Le Long Weekend

Explore Dune du Pilat with this top-rated Arcachon Bay Tour from Bordeaux

Cognac Tastings at Cognac (Charente)

The medieval city of Cognac may be small but it is bursting with wonderful things to do. Located 400 kilometers to the south-west of Paris, the city is divided into two by the Charente River. 

The left bank showcases the beautiful old town, with its narrow cobbled streets and historically significant buildings. Many of them are in the half-timbered medieval style, like the Maison de la Lietuenance built in the 15th-century.  The St Jacques Towers and St Léger Church should also be visited.

Cognac is also the namesake and heartland of one of France’s most famous liqueurs.  The major Cognac producers of France all have their houses in the city.  Names like Rémy Martin, Camus, and Hennessy can be found here. 

Whether you are a Cognac drinker or not, spending time at one of the leading Cognac producers is a great experience.  The production occurs in age-old buildings using production methods that are both controlled by the French appellation process and also by tradition.  On a tour, you will learn what Cognac is and how it is made and visit the very interesting aging rooms.  Finally, you will taste the Cognac and learn different ways of drinking it. 

All Cognac houses offer basic tours with Cognac tastings .  They also offer more exclusive tours for Cognac connoisseurs, including tastings of special editions.  It is recommended to book ahead of your visit, especially in summer.

Suggested by Kerri | Beer and Croissants

Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Pyrénées Atlantiques)

When driving the west coast of France, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a must stop. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is not only a beautiful natural place with a picturesque little harbor, a lovely and quiet seafront, and awesome views of the Pyrénées mountains, but it’s also a village with a strong soul.

Its history was marked by the wedding of King Louis XIV. We can still find the souvenirs of the wedding through Maison Louis XIV where the couple spent his first night; Maison de l’Infante where Maria-Theresa spent her last night before getting married; the church that was specially renovated for their wedding, and Macarons Adam shop who invented the macaron for the event. Anne d’Autriche, King Louis XIV’s mother, liked this little cake so much that she offered her rosary to the servant of Adam shop!

It’s very easy to travel to Saint Jean de Luz by train. The railway station is situated 2 minutes from the harbor, with the view of the Rhune mountain. From the harbor, you can see the pink Infante house and on the opposite side the village of Ciboure and the house where Maurice Ravel was born. Follow the harbor and you will arrive on Louis XIV square, where you will see Maison Louis XIV and Macarons Adam. Take the little restaurants street to the ocean and enjoy the seafront. Return by the church that you can visit.

Suggested by Séphanie | Ethno Travels

Click here to book your hotel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime)

La Rochelle is a historical seaport in the Bay of Biscay along the sandy west coast of France which would be on par with other port cities of the time like Bordeaux and Nantes. And while it does share a variety of tourist interest and attractions like the aquarium, gardens and the natural-history museum.

The main feature and attraction of this seaport town has to be the old harbor area which is central to nightlife, restaurants, and perfect views over the ancient port on the coastline. This is known locally as the Vieux Port , and the old harbor is the site of three medieval towers that keep the entrance to the harbor bay.

Unlike most of the Vendée coastline, La Rochelle itself doesn’t have the same sandy beaches, but not far down the coast finds Châtelaillon-Plage (15km south) which has a bustling promenade and some of the most perfect beachfront sands.

Suggested by Allan | It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

Click here to book your hotel in La Rochelle

Saint-Émilion (Gironde)

Saint-Émilion is a fabulous place to explore wine tourism in the Bordeaux region of France. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there’s plenty of great reasons to visit even if you’re not a wine enthusiast. Though even if you don’t plan on drinking, you can still enjoy learning about how   Bordeaux became a wine region.  

Make sure to book your visits to the chateaus ahead of time if you plan to do wine tours and wine tastings. Many are booked up far in advance. However, if you do show up to the village without any bookings, the tourism office can help you to find which chateaus have last-minute openings available for you.

I also suggest you go on the city’s free walking tour to learn about the town’s amazing history and what makes this World Heritage Site so special. The tour will take you through the historic town center’s most important sites. Other fabulous things to do here include dining outside in one of the town squares, shopping for cheese and wine in the town shops, and simply exploring the gorgeous area on foot. You can stay for a few days or you can visit the town by train as a day trip from Bordeaux.

Suggested by Stephanie | History Fan Girl

This Saint Emilion Guided Winery Tour & Wine Tasting always has excellent reviews!

Seafood in Port-des-Barques (Charente Maritime)

The Atlantic seaside town of Port-des-Barques west of Rochefort boasts an idyllic location. Its peninsula location providing panoramic sea views and sandy beaches perfect for fishing from stilted pontoons, cycling tours or simply bathing in the coastal water.

However, another side to Port des Barques also related to its location on the Charente Estuary is our favorite thing to do in this region of Western France.

The waters of the estuary and its changing tides are why Port des Barques is rightfully known as the ‘Land of Oysters’.

Along the banks of the estuary are dotted numerous oyster farms all specializing in the local Marennes-Oléron oyster. Their enviable quality a result of the combination of beds located 5 km out at sea and land-based shallow ponds or ‘claires’. This mixture of salt and freshwater together results in a delectable seafood treat.

The only way to savor this is to head to one of the farms such as Les Fontaines on Chemin de la Grande Échelle. Also, a France Passion stop their small stall selling them accompanied with a simple dressing and cold glass of white wine makes for an ideal end to your day.

Suggested by Paul | The Two That Do

Castles of Dordogne (Dordogne)

France’s Dordogne region is magical! So many lovely Dordogne castles dot the landscape here. Not far from Bonneviole, Château de Castelnau-Bretenoux makes a worthy stop.

Fortified high on a cliff, its dramatic six towers cut an impressive profile against the skyline. If it’s Renaissance castles you’re in search of, look no further than Château de Montal . Or see the lush riverside setting of Château de Becastel.

My favorite Dordogne castle,   Château de Beynac   is just minutes from Saint Cyprien. This majestic stone fortress is the best-preserved fortress in the Perigord. Carved out of a cliff, it dominates the horizon. In fact, to reach it, you’ll need to wind your way up a long steep hill and then enter its stone walls from the back. Once you do, you’ll wander through the little village before entering the castle itself. Inside, 17th-century paintings adorn the ceiling and 15th-century frescos bring the Renaissance fireplace to life.

Whatever you do, be sure to climb all the way to the watchtower for stunning views of the Dordogne Valley! For the full effect, consider a canoe paddle or guided boat trip on the Dordogne River to look back at the facade. 

Chris | Explore Now or Never

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What to do in South West of France ? Road trip

Article mis à jour le 23 Oct 2023

What to do in South West of France ?

Let’s set off on a road trip to the South West of France and Spain ! I’m proposing several itineraries of one week, 10 days or 2 weeks to visit the Basque Coast and the Pyrenees. Between Basque culture, gastronomy and incredible landscapes, these corners of France and Spain really seduced me. 🤩

Like me, you can hire a van for this road trip in the South West. There are a number of advantages to this, not least the fact that you can change your destination from day to day, on a whim, a chance meeting or purely on meteorological considerations! I recommend a reliable rental company below. In this article, you’ll find some must-visit places, suggested itineraries and practical advice for organising your stay in the South West.

Organise your road trip in the South West of France

Where to hire a van.

For lovers of freedom and nature, a van is the ideal way to visit this region. I hired my van from Van-It in Tarbes. Depending on where you start your road trip, Van-It has branches all over France. They are also present in Spain, Italy and Portugal!

To visit the South West of France and the Basque country, I recommend you hire your van from the Van-it agency in Biarritz. On the website, you’ll see that there are several van models. Personally, I chose the VW California Beach, which was practical and easy to manoeuvre thanks to its compact size. If you’re going to be away for more than a week, I’d still recommend a larger model for greater comfort.

➜ Book your van with Van-It

For those who don’t want to travel by van, it is of course possible to do this road trip by car. I recommend some accommodation as you go along in this article.

Where to sleep in a van in the South West of France ?

To find places to sleep, I always use the Park4night app. Most of the features are free. You’ll find lots of information there, such as day & night car parks, motorhome parks and even places in the countryside. Take a good look at the reviews for each location to get a better idea.

In the Pyrenees or in the mountains in general, it’s very easy to find magnificent places to sleep in a van. On the French Basque coast, however, things get more complicated! Many places are off-limits at night, although there is some tolerance in the off-season. During the summer, however, don’t even try to break the ban, as there are plenty of checks. On the coast, therefore, choose campsites or official motorhome parks.

Where can you take a shower and go to the toilet ?

If your van doesn’t have these facilities, you can hire a solar shower from Van-It. Obviously, it had better not be too cold outside, otherwise it will sting. 😂 Alternatively, you can sleep in a campsite. As for toilets, there are often public ones near beaches or in service stations. Finally, if you find yourself in the mountains or in a remote area, all nature is open to you, BUT make sure you don’t leave any handkerchiefs behind! This is a very important point, not only for the environment but also for visual pollution. It’s never pleasant to arrive at a place and find toilet paper everywhere. It doesn’t cost anything to have a little bin bag in the car and throw your little things in it.

When to visit the South West of France ?

Because of the high tourist season, I would advise against visiting the South West in summer. Prices will be much higher and the tourist spots are bound to be busier.

In my opinion, the best period is September and October. June may also be a good alternative, but the weather is likely to be wetter.

What to do in the South West of France ? Road trip itinerary tips

I’m giving you a few tips here to give you a little guidance on the essential things to do in the South West of France . However, you can of course mix and match the places I recommend throughout this guide to suit your tastes.

A week’s itinerary in the South West of France

• Days 1 to 3: The Basque Coast
• Day 4: Nacedero Urederra Baquedano and the Bardenas Desert
• Day 5: Río Vero Canyon
• Day 6: Natural pools and the Spanish Pyrenees
• Day 7: French Pyrenees

10 days itinerary

• Day 4: The land side of the Basque Country
• Day 5: Kakuetta Gorge and Holzarté Footbridge
• Day 6: Nacedero Urederra Baquedano and the Bardenas Desert
• Day 7: Río Vero Canyon
• Days 8 to 10: Pyrenees

2 weeks itinerary in the South West of France

Same programme as the 10 days itinerary , with more time in the Pyrenees for the must-do hikes .

What to do in the South West of France ?

Here we go! I’m going to list the places to see on the coast and in the mountains. I’ll leave you to sort them out according to your wildest desires and your travel desires. ♥️

The French Basque Coast

Visit bayonne.

Bayonne is a charming little town steeped in history, and a great place to wander around. Stop off to taste the famous Bayonne ham, which is excellent. The town centre is colourful , with many pedestrianised streets. Bayonne is a great place to live. We enjoyed talking to the shopkeepers. In our opinion, half a day is enough to do the whole tour. If you wish, I recommend this guided tour of Bayonne with food and drink .

In July, Bayonne comes alive during the famous week-long Bayonne Festival. If you’re passing through, make sure you don’t miss them: a crazy atmosphere guaranteed!

🏨 Where to sleep in Bayonne ?

For an overnight stay, I recommend the Villa KOEGUI hotel , right in the centre of town.

🍴 Where to eat in Bayonne ? 

• Chez Piccole Cose, for fresh produce and homemade dishes.
• At Bistro Toqué, for generous cooking.

Biarritz is the essential spot on the Basque coast for surfers. As well as vast beaches, you’ll find trendy restaurants and boutiques. The town centre is also very attractive, although the architecture is less colourful than elsewhere.

For an exceptional experience, admire Biarritz from the sky with this helicopter ride over the town and its surroundings.

🏨 Where to sleep in Biarritz ?

There is accommodation to suit all budgets in Biarritz. Book yours at the best price from the wide selection on Booking.com !

What to do in Biarritz

Go and admire the Rock of the Virgin . The footbridge leading to it was built by a certain Gustave Eiffel! And don’t miss the Biarritz Lighthouse. For €5, you can climb to the top and admire a magnificent view of the ocean and the town.

For sunset, head to the Côte of Basques or the Eden Rock. I love this place because you can sit on the rocks and watch the sun go down, with a view of the Rock of the Virgin. Then, if you’re in the mood for a party, head to the Halles district for a snack, a drink and some dancing. I personally tried out Le Rendez-Vous of the Halles and Bar Jean.

Take a surf lesson in Biarritz

The west coast is the perfect place to try out or perfect your surfing skills! Book your surf lesson in Biarritz 🏄‍♂️.

Other things to do in and around Biarritz :

• Sea kayaking in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
• Rafting near Biarritz
• Hire a boat to sail around the Basque coast.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

I love Saint-Jean-de-Luz, with its typically Basque narrow streets and peaceful atmosphere.

The first thing to do is wander through the pretty little streets in the centre. Take the opportunity to treat yourself to a pair of espadrilles, as this type of shoe is native to the region! And don’t forget to sample the many local specialities: macaroons from the Maison Adam, local produce, Basque cake, etc.

Next, head for the Digue of Sainte-Barbe . Take a stroll along the seafront. You’ll see this beautiful panorama of the beach and mountains 😝 If you’d like to take a surfing lesson, you can also do so in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Book here !

Head to Ciboure , on the opposite shore to Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It’s a great place for a stroll. Here you can admire the typical Basque architecture, followed by the Socoa fort.

Where to eat in Socoa ?

You’re bound to be hungry when you arrive in Socoa. Whether for lunch or dinner, I highly recommend Restaurant Ispeguy . The food is excellent and good value for money. Call to book in high season!

Where to sleep in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

The Eskualduna I flat is located in Ciboure and is ideal for visiting the surrounding area. It is well equipped and has a pretty terrace. If you prefer to sleep in the centre of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, this accommodation is also perfect.

Where to watch the sunset in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

☀️ The sunset is a special moment in the day. Are you looking for a nice spot near Saint-Jean-de-Luz to admire it and enjoy an aperitif in a good atmosphere? I’ve found the perfect place: Le Bistrot du Mata . Not far away, you’ll also find Bibam.

To finish on the subject of what to do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz , it’s essential to go and eat and party at Chez Renauld ! Located right in the centre of town in a former garage, this brilliant place is the place to go for food trucks. Not only is the concept super stylish, but the food on offer is varied and excellent!

Photo credit : Kindabreak et Pinchables

🚐 Where to sleep in a van on the Basque Coast ?

As I explained, vans aren’t too tolerated on the French Basque coast, especially in summer. If you’re hoping to find nice spots to sleep on cliffs bordering the ocean, you can forget it 😂. The only overnight parking I’ve found is on Socoa beach (find it on Park4night). However, it has very few spaces, so don’t wait too long to get in. It’s still a concrete car park, so it’s not very glamorous, but it has the advantage of being right opposite the beach and having public toilets. Otherwise, in terms of camping, I’d spotted Camping Le Bord de Mer, not far from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, which looks great!

A little further inland at Urrugne, I also had a siesta on this spot with an ocean view where you can park overnight.

What to do in the South West on the land ?

After enjoying the beautiful surfers and the pleasures of the ocean, we’re off to the Basque countryside !

The Rhune train

10 km from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, head for the commune of Sare to take the famous Rhune train. On board, you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Basque country. This legendary cogwheel train takes you to the summit of La Rhune, part of the Pyrenees mountain range. You can check opening times and book your tickets online for the Train de la Rhune .

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can of course walk to the top. There are several possible departures: from Sare, allow 10 km for the return journey, with a climb of around 800 metres. I’ll leave you to find the information on the internet !

Typical Basque villages

Head for the cute village of Espelette . As you may have guessed, this is where the famous Espelette chilli pepper comes from. In fact, it’s impossible to miss it when you visit the village! Here again, stroll through the narrow streets, meet the shopkeepers and sample the local specialities. We left with Espelette chilli pepper salt and a delicious blackberry liqueur.

We found a perfume shop not to be missed: Parfums et Senteurs du Pays Basque. The master perfumer is Basque and the scents are incredible! For a new perfume that stands out from those on the market, it’s top notch.

A short stopover in the village of Cambo-les-Bains to discover a typically Basque environment. No particular programme, just enjoy the view.

For a sporting stop-off during your road trip in the South West of France , head for the village of Itxassou . Many hiking trails start from this village. If you’re feeling up to it, go for it (and burn off all those calories from Basque cuisine)! We walked along the river Nive to Pas de Roland . There aren’t many tourists, so it’s a wonderful place to find peace and quiet in the Basque countryside.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

For the record, I thought the village literally ended in Pied de Porc rather than Port. So don’t get confused!

We continue our discovery of the hinterland with Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port , listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France . Once again, the architecture is typically Basque , so it’s full of charm. There are two sides to the village: the old town with its ramparts and the built-up area. This village is well worth a visit, and the surrounding roads are superb too.

Continuation of the road trip: what to do in South West of France ?

If you’re following us, it’s because you too love nature and the great outdoors. We’re going to help you discover some magical places on the Spanish border and in the Pyrenees.

Are you ready ?

The Kakuetta Gorges, in Sainte-Engrâce

It’s with places like this that I can say that, in my opinion, France is the most beautiful country in the world! You’ve already seen in our article on What to do in Chamonix that you don’t have to go far to be amazed.

The Gorges of Kakuetta (or Kakouetta) are one of the treasures to be found in the Pyrenees . To visit them, it will take you a maximum of two hours round trip. In some places, the canyon is over 200 m high. Not only is it impressive, but the colour of the water is magnificent. Enchanting scenery, just the way we like it.

We took a dip to cool off. We were the only ones dipping in and out of the water. It was cold but so pure we couldn’t resist! See for yourself in the photos… So, are you in the mood ?

🏨 Where to sleep to visit the Kakuetta gorges?

For accommodation not far from here, this bed and breakfast is ideal with its leafy setting, right in the heart of nature! The accommodation is less than 3 km from the gorges. If you’re travelling by van, you’ll find plenty of places in the heart of nature on Park4night.

The Holzarté footbridge, in Larrau

If you are afraid of heights, we advise you not to venture onto the Holzarté footbridge . The walk starts in Larrau and takes around an hour, with no particular difficulty. Once you’re on it, you’ll be suspended at a height of 150 metres . The view of the Olhadubi Gorges is impressive!

The Holzarte footbridge for a thrilling ride

What to do in the French Pyrenees ?

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of the places I’d spotted in the Pyrenees. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to do everything in 1 week… When I’m in a van, I really adopt the slow life method, enjoying each place as much as I want. I’ve taken a huge step back from that in recent months. When I’m travelling, I prefer to discover a place that I love, rather than running around trying to see absolutely everything.

Anyway, I’ll stop telling you about my life 😂. I recommend these must-see places in the French Pyrenees :

• The bridge if Spain
• Lake of Estom hike: about 4h AR with quite a bit of ascent
• Circus of Gavarnie: I’m gutted I missed out on this wonderful-looking circus, but I’ll definitely be coming back to visit it!
• Lake of Orédon: accessible by car, I made a very pleasant stop here. The lake is magnificent, as you can see from the photos below. There are also the Cap de Long and Aubert lakes nearby, also accessible by road.
• Wellness time at Balnéa (Loudenvielle): access at €20 per person for 2 hours. You can relax in the many indoor and outdoor pools and/or book a treatment at an additional cost. I loved it!
• Lake of Ôo: famous glacial lake in the Pyrenees, a must-see. I can’t wait to come back and visit. It takes around 2 hours round trip, with a bit of a climb as it’s in the mountains. The main feature of this lake is the waterfall that flows into it.

So of course there are plenty of other things to do and see in the Pyrenees . Feel free to share your top tips with me as a comment on this article so I can add them to the list. 🤩

What to do in Spain’s South West?

Let’s move on to the Spanish part of this road trip itinerary! I discovered some nuggets and got a real eyeful 🥰.

Nacedero Urederra Baquedano

Just two hours from Biarritz lies the superb nature reserve of the Source de l’Urederra, in the Navarre region. The walk, which lasts around 1? hours, is magnificent and accessible to all. To get there, you’ll need to book online, as to preserve the ecosystem, the number of visitors is limited to 500 per day. A word of warning: swimming is prohibited, so you can only enjoy it with your eyes!

➜ Book on the official website . Tickets cost €5 per car or €10 for a van.

The Bardenas Reales Desert

Welcome to the largest desert in Europe. The Bardenas Reales have a breathtaking setting that makes you feel like you’re in a film! In fact, several blockbusters have been filmed here, including James Bond and Game of Thrones. You can visit the desert on foot, by bike or by car. Access is free, and I recommend that you stop off at the Tourist Information Center  to pick up the maps of the hikes and authorised routes.

Make sure you respect these zones, as they are designed to protect the fragile ecosystem! It is forbidden to sleep in a van at night in the nature park. That’s why I’m going to recommend another place.

If you have the opportunity, I’d advise you to book a night at the Hotel Aire of Bardenas . I think it’s one of the most beautiful hotels in Europe. It must be magical to sleep and wake up in the heart of the Bardenas desert. ♥️

Where to sleep in a van near the Bardenas desert ?

Well, I admit it’s not very close either because it’s another 1 hour and a half drive. But I swear it’s worth it!

I found a magical little spot to sleep in a van at Lake Yesa . It’s very quiet, clean and above all very beautiful. It’s exactly for this kind of experience that I love van life… If it’s not too cold, you can swim in the lake. The sunsets and sunrises there are also superb.

Río Vero Canyon

If you’ve followed my Spanish recommendations so far, you’ll already have been seduced by these corners of paradise. Well, there’s more to come! I’ve discovered other natural wonders in Spain, including the Canyon of Río Vero.

To get there on foot, park at the beginning of the village of Alquézar, which is well worth a visit in itself. Then go to the Pasarelas del Vero office to buy your tickets. Tickets cost €5 per person, and I’d advise you to bring trainers. In my opinion, it’s well worth the cost, as the trail is superbly laid out. The footbridges will take you through the canyon so you can admire the scenery at its best. Don’t forget your swimming costume to cool off in the crystal-clear pools!

Allow around 2 hours with breaks for this short hike.

Canyoning in the Sierra of Guara

The next time I’m here, I’m definitely going to try canyoning. Not far from Alquézar, I recommend discovering one of the most beautiful spots in the Spanish Pyrenees with this half-day outing in the Sierra of Guara.

➜ Canyoning booking 💦

Other places to see in the Spanish Pyrenees

Between swimming in natural pools and hiking, you won’t get bored in the Pyrenees. This region is particularly good for travelling in a van , as it’s easy to find places to sleep. If you’re looking to cool off, you can go to the Pozas of Puyarruego and all the way to the Gorges of Puértolas , which are nearby and accessible by car. You’ll be amazed by the natural pools formed by Mother Nature. I had also noticed the Gradas of Soaso in the Ordesa National Park, waterfalls on several levels, but you have to hike to get there.

For hiking enthusiasts, you’ll find plenty of information on Alltrails, Visorando and Randopyrenees.

I hope I’ve helped you with these recommendations for road trip itineraries in the South West of France ! You can discover our many travel guides for France on this page .

If you have any questions or recommendations, we’ll see you in the comments 🙂 See you soon !

This article contains affiliate links. If we’ve helped you organise your trip or you’d just like to support us, please consider booking your activities and hotels for the South West of France by clicking on our links . We’ll earn a small commission and the price stays the same for you, of course. 🤍

Further Reading...

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What to do in Egypt ? One week itinerary

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The Dordogne has a superb collection of castles to visit

Dordogne tourist attractions

Visit the many tourist attractions and activities in the Dordogne

Discover the prehistoric treasures of the Dordogne including cave paintings and troglodyte dwellings

Saint Amand de Coly

Saint Amand de Coly is one of the most beautiful villages of France.

The medieval town of Sarlat is a highlight of any trip to the Dordogne

Day out in the Dordogne

Plan a day out to see the highlights of the Dordogne

La Musee de la Rue du temps qui passe

The Museum of the Rue du temps qui passe is a museum recreating life in the early 1900s.

Dordogne France travel and tourism

The Dordogne region of south-west France is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in the country. Visit this beautiful region of France and discover the chateaux , beautiful medieval towns and villages , unspoiled countryside and prehistoric caves - just some of the many reasons why the region attracts visitors.

See Dordogne regions and Dordogne map to get started...

Yet it is the places that you visit outside these 'hot-spots' that will stay longest in your memory - the scenery, the peace, the coffee in a small cafe, the picnic next to a stream. The Dordogne is beautiful in the same way as the Cotswolds or Tuscany are beautiful - the way it simply makes you want to stay forever enjoying the quiet, the countryside, the scenery...

Some of the other best known highlights include the gouffre de Padirac caves and canoeing the Dordogne , with the most popular towns and villages including Bergerac , Brantome , Excideuil , La Roque-Gageac , Le Bugue , Riberac and Rocamadour .

The Dordogne Valley usually refers to the path followed by the river, and is towards the south of the department where it travels from east to west, passing through Bergerac and many of the other popular villages. The more northerly half of the department is quite a way from the river - but tourism in the department certainly doesn't start and end with the river - be sure to venture north and south a little to discover the quiet but equally beautiful regions a little more hidden from the public gaze...

You should be aware that the 'official' Dordogne Valley often refers to the region to the east around Argentat - i.e. on the Dordogne river but within the Correze department - see Dordogne Valley for information.

For more information about activities, visiting the area with children, market days and wine-tasting, museums and travel arrangements, and much more besides, see... visiting the Dordogne .

Dordogne holidays and travel

There are easy travel links by road and train to the Dordogne region of France from the UK and mainland Europe, many flights (including low cost airlines operating to Bergerac) and also international flights from more faraway places that arrive into Bordeaux airport.

Accommodation in campsites, gites and chambre d'hotes is easily found, the larger towns have hotels, and there are many traditional French chambre d'hotes in the countryside,...see Dordogne holidays .

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The Bastide Towns & "Beaux Villages" Of Southwest France

19 November 2020

The Bastide Towns And “Beaux Villages” Of Southwest France

Nov 19, 2020 | France | 4 comments

Taking a road trip around southwest France is one of life’s great pleasures. Its rural heart boasts endless vistas of rolling hills, vineyards and medieval towns of stunning beauty. And, away from the tourist hotspots of the Dordogne, the roads are all but empty for large parts of the day.

To us, it feels like home. Largely because of the number of housesits we’ve had the pleasure of enjoying in the region. And, no matter how many times we visit, we’re still able to uncover another medieval village that captures our hearts. Indeed, we can think of no other place in the world (with the possible exception of Umbria and Tuscany in Italy) where there are so many wonderful villages and towns to explore.

In this article, we feature 12 of our favourites in a road trip spanning the departments of Tarn, Tarn-et-Garonne, Lot and Dordogne. So buckle up and come with us on a Gallic trip into the past.

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Bastide towns & Les Plus Beaux Villages de France

Castelnau-de-Montmiral

Cordes-sur-ciel, saint-cirq-lapopie, la roque-gageac, beynac-et-cazenac, final thoughts, castelnau de montmiral, cordes sur ciel, bastide towns + les plus beaux villages de france.

For an easy introduction to France’s medieval villages you need look no further than the many bastide towns that are dotted all over the country’s southwest.

Largely built between the 13th and 15th Centuries, they were originally intended to house the disparate rural population inside “urban” centres to improve commerce and security against attack. Typically, they employed a grid system with a central square that doubled as a marketplace, surrounded by arcades.

And then, as the Hundred Years War raged between France and England over succession to the French throne, many became fortified. And it’s this combination of medieval streets, half-timbered buildings and hilltop castles that makes these towns such evocative places to visit.

In addition, Le Plus Beaux Villages de France ( The Most Beautiful Villages Of France ) is an independent association that celebrates and promotes a large group of rural villages that meet a certain set of quality criteria. Some of these villages are also bastide towns.

Together, they form the backbone of any road trip through France’s southwest and provide the basis for our selection here.

We begin our road trip in the department of Tarn-et-Garonne. Just an hour’s drive north of Toulouse, Bruniquel boasts not one, but two castles which overlook the mouth of the Gorges de l’Aveyron .

The reason for there being two Chateaux de Bruniquel was apparently the result of a petty family squabble between the viscounts of Bruniquel. Sort of an old-world tale of one-upmanship between father and son. But on a huge scale.

Indeed, the best way to explore Bruniquel is to find a parking space at the bottom of town and then wander up through the steep, cobbled streets of pink stone and red tiles to view the castles and the valleys beyond, before returning via a different route.

Just 13 km south of Bruniquel, along the picturesque D964 and across the department border to Tarn, Puycelsi swings into view. Inheriting its name from the Roman Podio Celco (or “High Platform”) it’s a medieval village with spectacular views over the Vère Valley.

Left in an almost abandoned state just 60 years ago, it has since been transformed into one of the Plus Beaux Villages, largely through the purchase and restoration of second homes.

Also known as “the fortress in the woods”, which becomes clear when you see the village peering out from the forested hillside as you drive on the road below.

Better still, a further 13 km along the same road brings us to the fabulous Castelnau-de-Montmiral . A bastide built around 1222, just wandering through its maze of narrow streets of half-timbered buildings feels like you’ve suddenly arrived at the dawn of the Middle Ages.

But the centrepiece is undoubtedly La Place des Arcades (“The Place of the Arcades”), a small town square of sublime beauty. With arched arcades on all four sides and a glorious mix of red brick, white stone and ancient wood, it’ll take your breath away. Nowadays, it houses the mairie (town hall), the tourist office, a café, a couple of restaurants and a hotel. Not to mention the original whipping post.

But if there’s anywhere better to enjoy a plat de jour with a chilled glass of Gaillac perlé (slightly sparkling wine) then we’ve yet to find it.

For a closer look, here’s a 360-degree tour .

Heading north for 25 km, along the D922, we arrive at another bastide town built around 1222. Translated as “ Cordes in the Sky “, it reflects the town’s lofty perch above the clouds which regularly fill the valley below during the spring and autumn.

Indeed, the long climb up through the cobbled streets is a steep one. And, along the way, there’s a full range of gothic buildings made from local sandstone to admire, such as the Grand Falconer’s House and the Grand Huntsman’s House.

In addition to its architectural highlights, the town also became a magnet for French artists – poets, writers, painters and sculptors – including the revered Albert Camus. And so today, there are regular art exhibitions to add to the dedicated Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art.

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Continuing north for a further 26 km, and into the department of Lot, the imposing castle at Najac stands impressively above the village, with a full 360-degree view over the valley below.

The village stretches out as a row of medieval buildings along a hilltop ridge. Almost as if it marks the route towards the castle at the opposite end of the ridge. 

And, as you’ve no doubt gathered by now, there’s an inevitable steep walk before you arrive at its gates. But it’s so worth the effort, if not just for the panoramic view from the top.

45 km beyond Najac, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is another Plus Beau Village , which sits precariously at the edge of a sheer cliff that plunges down to the Lot River

Its photogenic setting , as well as being named “Favourite Village of the French” in a 2012 TV programme, means that it’s well established on the tourist trail. So the village is set up for the onslaught of people during the peak summer months. Indeed, many of the medieval houses on the main street have now been transformed into studios for potters and artists. ​

Continuing north, perhaps the most famous of all in our selection, Rocamadour is another cliff-hugging spectacle which almost defies description.

It has attracted tourists since the Middle Ages, largely due to the supposed miraculous powers of the Black Madonna (housed in the Chapel of Notre Dame), which has drawn pilgrims ever since.

As a result, the medieval town (known as La Cité ) has plenty of tourist trappings. But it’s nevertheless a gorgeous place to just wander around.

Split into three levels, in keeping with the three orders of society, it begins with the lower village where the lay workers would live. From there, the 216 steps of the Great Staircase ascend the cliff-face to a middle section containing a number of large religious buildings (including Notre Dame). And, at the top of the cliff, a chateau once used by knights looks out over the Alzou Valley. Unsurprisingly, it’s from here that the best views are to be had.

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Heading east for 50 km, we leave Lot for the department of Dordogne and follow the picturesque D703 as it winds its way beside the Dordogne River. Eventually, we arrive at the fairytale setting of La Roque-Gageac .

However, a quiet riverside village this ain’t. During the summer months, it gets crowded with people eager to cool down with an artisan ice cream and a kayak trip along the river for some chateaux-spotting. And, to be honest, we can’t complain because we’ve done exactly that. In fact, this stretch of the river is so supremely beautiful that we’d suggest you don’t miss out on at least a couple of hours “on the water”.

The main features of the village itself are the circular-towered Manoir de la Tarde and the gorgeous Chateau de la Malartrie, which peers out from its sub-tropical setting.

And, behind the village, a set of prehistoric cave dwellings are carved into the cliff-face.

10 minutes further along the D703, the twin villages of Beynac and Cazenac host one of the region’s best-preserved castles, which sits on top of another sheer limestone cliff face.

The Château de Beynac is a 900-year-old beauty that stands guard above the village over what was once the border between French and English territory. Indeed, the English-held Château de Castelnau faces it on the opposite side of the valley. And with a little imagination, it’s just possible to hear the 14th-Century insults flying on the wind between the two opposing sides.

Or, as immortalised by Monty Python in a dodgy French accent, “Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries!”

Next, taking a detour southeast of the Dordogne River, we arrive at what most experts agree is the archetypal bastide town.

Lovely Monpazier’s perfectly aligned streets criss-cross each other at right angles before leading ultimately to the arcaded Place des Cornières (main square). There’s been a weekly market here every Thursday for the past 700 years under the protective wooden-covered market hall. So it would be a bit of a shame if you managed to miss it.

Founded by Edward the First of England in the 13th Century, it forms another part of this forgotten slice of England.

Although you’d be better off whispering that quietly when you’re in town.

And, assuming you’ve not completely zoned out to wandering around gorgeously medieval French villages by now, a further 30 km eastwards brings us to the achingly beautiful Issigeac .

By way of a contrast to Monpazier’s linear structure, Issigeac is circular in design. And its half-timbered buildings actually reminded us of those we saw in Castelnau de Montmiral.

But the village’s crowning glory is its weekly market which, during the summer months, attracts shoppers (and tourists) from all over the region. Seriously, if you only choose one French market to visit, it should probably be this one.

And, finally, we head to the extreme north of the Dordogne to a village dubbed The Venice of Périgord on account of its island setting on the River Dronne.

It’s a 90-minute drive from Issigeac to Brantôme. But we’ve included it on our list as it differs greatly from the medieval towns further south. And, apart from its superb setting on the river, the ancient Brântome Abbey , founded in 769 by Charlemagne, is worth the journey alone.

Sandwiched between the river and the limestone cliffs behind, it was originally home to cave-dwelling Benedictine monks. And you can visit the troglodyte (cave-dwelling) remains of the monastery as part of a guided tour.

Planning your trip

FLIGHTS: We've used Skyscanner to book the majority of our flights over the years. We can also recommend Kiwi for their keen prices and great customer service.

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TRAVEL INSURANCE: Not just a "nice-to-have" but essential for most travel situations. As UK residents we use True Traveller , who offer general travel insurance as well as backpacker insurance with up to 2 years cover.

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And, for digital nomads, Safety Wing offer both travel insurance and global health insurance .

CAR RENTAL: As an online booking platform, Discover Cars compare vehicle rental deals and always quotes inclusive of all mandatory fees, taxes and extras.

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We can honestly say that whittling down the bastide towns and Plus Beaux Villages of southwest France to just “12 of the best” was a difficult task. But perhaps that’s because we’re just biased about the allure of this region. And we haven’t even mentioned the vineyards!

Suffice to say, we’ve plenty of unfinished business to attend to on future visits. In the meantime, we hope that our suggestions in this article at least whet your appetite for your own road trip.

And, if you happen to fall in love with a medieval gem that we’ve overlooked, then please do let us know!

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What did you think? Have you been to any of the bastide towns and Plus Beaux Villages of southwest France that we’ve featured? Or perhaps you have some recommendations of your own? Either way, we’d love to hear from you so please add your comments below.

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Thanks for reading

Hi, we're Ian and Nicky, an English couple on a voyage of discovery around the world, and this blog is designed to reflect what we see, think and do. Actually, we'd like to think it also provides information, entertainment and inspiration for other “mature” travellers, too. So please feel free to pour yourself a glass of something suitably chilled and take a look around.

South France seems so extraordinarily exotic! La Roque-Gageac and Bruniquel are so charming and look like a fabulous experience. They look amazing!

WOW!! Almost missed this post, since we were in Cartagena that week. But what a fabulous journey through these medieval towns. And as usual, your lyrical photography puts us right in the spot and makes us yearn to see it in person! Just a small observation – it looks like there’s a familiar design to a lot of the arches and windows – very rounded with a bit of a point at the top? I wonder if that’s unique to the region?

The arches relate to the Gothic architecture of the Middle Ages – which you can actually see in England as well as France. You two would love it in southwest France. Fingers crossed circumstances will allow you to visit in the not-too-distant future!

Just awesome! Adding to out list!

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Arcachon travel guide

Visit Arcachon (Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France)

The resort town of Arcachon is a very popular coastal destination in south-west France. The resort is to the west of Bordeaux at the northern end of the longest, sandiest coast in Europe, stretching 200 kilometres southwards to Biarritz . The coast is known as the Côte d'argent ('the silver coast').

Historically popular as a destination for people from Bordeaux to escape to at weekends it has now developed into one of the most popular and attractive seaside destinations in France.

Exploring Arcachon: tourism and travel guide

France This Way review: we have visited the majority of the hundreds of resorts around the coast of France including those along the Mediterranean Riviera, the Atlantic and the English Channel , and also spend a lot of time in Arcachon, and can honestly say that the town is probably our favourite French summer beach resort.

The principal attractions in Arcachon include several kilometres of beautifully maintained sandy beaches, a town centre with its markets and vibrant atmosphere, and the 'winter town' (the "ville d'hiver") with its extensive number of grand villas built in the 1860's, and the most complete 'belle epoque' town you will find anywhere in France.

The beach in the centre of Arcachon is not exposed to the full might of the Atlantic waves, being on the edge of a large inlet, the Bassin d'Arcachon , rather than facing the sea directly. This makes the beaches particularly good for children.

The town is broadly divided into five parts :

• the summer town (Ville d'été), along the northern coast and the most developed part of Arcachon, next to the beach and with a good array of restaurants, bars and shops: see Ville d'Eté guide
• the autumn town (Ville d'Automne), to the east and around the marina and port areas of the town, including Aiguillon: see Ville d'Automne guide
• the winter town (Ville d'Hiver), south of the summer town and the region to see hundreds of imposing villas from the end of the 19th century: see Ville d'Hiver guide
• the spring town (Ville de Printemps), the western part of Arcachon and closest to the lovely beaches such as Pereire to the west of the town centre
• the separate resort of Le Moulleau, to the south-west of Arcachon - see Le Moulleau resort

As a visitor you will want to explore each of these areas, although the shops, restaurants and activities of the Summer Town are the main centre for visitors. There is also a large market squre and indoor market in this part of Arcachon which has been beautifully restored in recent years.

The seafood restaurants in Arcachon are of course particularly popular and if you are looking for a cheap but tasty treat then 'Moules frites' (mussels and chips) are offered in many of the restaurants, especially along the beach. Head a short distance away from the beach front and it is easier to find restaurants offering high quality food at decent prices.

Behind the summer town climb to the extensive Parc Mauresque, from where you can start exploring the Winter Town, our favourite part of Arcachon and well worth exploring for the magnificent and often quite eccentric houses that were built in the second half of the 19th century.

Arcachon contains a large number of interesting and ornate old houses, sometimes almost verging on the Disneyesque, a tribute to the days when many rich merchants set up home here (see more details below).

Various tourist trains and buses also tour Arcachon and include some of the most important villas in the Ville d'Hiver if you prefer to sit down and have a commentary while exploring. Exploring in your own car would be possible but you would most likely miss most of the highlights in the many side-streets!

After reading about the main attractions below you can see our special guide to five unmissable highlights in Arcachon to see our overall favourites!

Arcachon beaches

There are four main beaches in Arcachon, the Plage Pereire and Plage des Abatilles , and the Plage d'Arcachon and the Plage d'Eyrac . The Plage du Moulleau is only a few kilometres away.

The principal town centre beach in Arcachon itself is sandy and very calm and sheltered from the strong waves and currents of the Atlantic Ocean beyond the bay: perfect for families with small children. On the central beach in Arcachon you will also find beach volleyball, 'bungee jumping' and a childrens play area.

The beaches in the centre of Arcachon are very long, popular and sandy but we recommend you also walk around to the beaches to the west of the town such as Abatilles, Pereire and Le Moulleau. These are extensive sandy beaches with plenty of space for everyone and backed by pine trees.

If you are looking for something further afield then there are literally miles of white sandy beaches as you continue south towards Biscarrosse, backed by pine forests and with plenty of waves for surfing and body-boarding. These beaches also have lifeguards surveilling portions of them to make them more safe for young and teenage children.

If you wish to learn how to surf there are lots of surf clubs offering pretty reasonably priced lessons.

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Ville d'hiver: parks and belle epoque villas

The winter town grew up in the second half of the 19th century, particularly around 1860 when a group of businessmen decided to prolong Arcachon's popular summer season into winter by promoting it as a rival to the Swiss mountains as a 'cure' for tuberculosis - see short history below.

The ville d'hiver contains numerous grand villas dating from the last two decades of the 19th century and a tour of the region - either on foot or one of the guided buses or tourist trains that explore here - is a highlight of your visit. See Arcachon Ville d'Hiver for details.

The 'Mode Pittoresque' was fashionable at this time and is a wonderfully eccentric mix of a number of architectural styles and building materials. In Arcachon you can see a mix of neoclassical, neo-gothic, old-colonial and swiss chalet styles. A lack of symmetry is key and the styles incorporate mixes of chalet style roofs with brick facades and bay windows.

The Parc Mauresque

Between the Ville d'Hiver and the Ville d'Ete is the Parc Mauresque , an attractive park extending over five hectares. Reached by lift  from the town below the park has wonderful views over the Bay of Arcachon and plenty of places for a picnic in the shade as well as a bandstand and various small garden features.

Around the edges of the park you can see the Villa Trocadero, the Villa Graigcrostan and the Villa Teresa. This was once home to the Casino Mauresque which was inspired by the Alhambra Palace and the Cordova Mosque. Sadly this burned down in 1977.

La Place des Palmiers

The Place des Palmiers is a small, very nicely maintained park about 100 metres beyond Parc Mauresque and towards the south of the Ville d'Hiver. There were so many British in Arcachon at the time the town developed in the late 1800s that an Anglican church was built and next to this a square was created and a number of palm trees planted - hence its adopted name of Place des Palmiers.

It is actually called the Place Alexandre Fleming. There is a lovely bandstand in the square, covered in flowers during the summer.

The Passarelle Saint-Paul and the Tour Observatoire Sainte-Cecile

A short distance east of Parc Mauresque, the Passarelle Saint-Paul was built in 1862 to link the dunes of Saint-Paul and Sainte-Cecile. Gustave Eiffel collaborated in the design of the Passarelle. The observatoire was added a year later.

You can climb the spiral staircase to the viewing platform of this interesting metal built tower (no charge!) to can get excellent views across the town below, the sea, and over some of the villas including Villa Toledo, Villa Bremontier and Villa Faust.

Short History of Arcachon

At the begining of the 19th century Arcachon was still just a small fishing village. The ville d'été started growing up principally as a place of healing where sick people could take in the sea air as part of their recovery process.

Then from 1860 the Ville d'hiver, with improved transport train links to Bordeaux and Paris, was developed. At the start it was an alternative to going to Switzerland for a cure for tuberculosis. The sea air and the pine forests were found to as beneficial as the mountain air and as Arcachon is in a bay it is protected from the strong winds of the rest of the Atlantic coast.

A group of business men, and in particular the Pereire brothers, and the owners of the railway line between Bordeaux and La Teste came up with the idea of extending the line to Arcachon and developing Arcachon as a winter resort for tuberculosis sufferers. The commercial project wasn't a huge success but the Pereire brothers continued to develop the summer tourism and the thermal tourism (with the les Abatilles spring) and the town started to attract rich merchants from Bordeaux and the rest of France.

When Napolean III came to visit Arcachon's success was assured. Alexandre Dumas lived in Arcachon for a while and Toulouse-Lautrec had a house on the sea-front.

See more of the popular resorts and beaches in Aquitaine

Other activities in and around Arcachon

Various boat-related trips are available from the jetties in the bay. Traditional boats called "pinasse" are used for these. The boat tours will take you past the beautiful "cabanes tchanquées" which are fishing cabins on stilts right out in the middle of the bay that become the 'symbol' of Arcachon.

Other boat trips will also take you to the bird sanctuary (see below) and to the point where Arcachon Bay meets the ocean.

Arcachon Zoo is about 10km away and is popular with children.

Cycling is extremely popular in Arcachon and if you bring a bike with you (or hire one) there is a lovely promenade and cycle path that heads south from the beach and continues 30 kilometres to Biscarrosse , via various beaches and coastal towns en route.

If you enjoy cycling, don't forget that the whole Arcachon coast is backed by the largest forest in western Europe - Les Landes. Until a hundred years ago this was just infested swamp, but was reclaimed and planted with pine trees, and is now a Regional Natural Park criss-crossed with cycle paths.

There are several Atlantic beaches south of here where you can enjoy a beach with real Atlantic Ocean waves!

About 10 kilometres south of Arcachon the lake called the Lac de Cazaux is the second largest lake in France. But perhaps the most popular attraction in the area is found a few kilometres to the south-west:

Dune du Pilat (Dune de Pyla)

The 'Dune du Pilat' sand dune is a few kilometres south of Arcachon, and is the largest sand dune in Europe, at more than 110 metres high. It is about 3km long, and steep! The appeal is two fold:

First, you and your children can pass a happy hour in the baking sun struggling to reach the top of the sand dune (stairs are also available!), and

second, the views from the top are simply stunning - out to sea, along the coast, and back across the dunes and Les Landes forests. Fabulous!

It really is an interesting and fascinating place to visit and lots of fun. Children (and adults) will spend hours hiking up to the top and then running down at full speed and then starting all over again.

It is also possible to para-glide from the dunes, a wonderful experience and again one that is relatively inexpensive considering the time and expertise involved. Certainly an experience you wont forget.

See Dune de Pyla for more information

Parc Ornithogique du Teich

This ornithological wonderland, 14 kilometres to the east of Arcachon, is one of just two bird sanctuaries in France. Previously the area was a wetland swamp, and continues to attract very high numbers of birds - reputedly more than 250 species, including several very rare birds. such as the spoonbill, the little egret and the black kite.

There are quite a few pairs of stork nesting in the parc, these are a really amazing sight with their massive nests. Many of the birds can be seen from the observation points along marked out walks through Teich Parc.

See more seaside resorts in France . You can find more travel ideas in the Gironde guide and the Aquitaine guide .

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Photos of Arcachon

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Map of arcachon and places nearby, visit near arcachon with france this way reviews.

Arcachon Ville d'Eté

Arcachon's 'summer town' is a very attractive sea side town next to long sandy beaches

Arcachon Ville d'Hiver

Visit the beautiful villas in the Ville d'Hiver of Arcachon.

Parc Mauresque

The Parc Mauresque is a large parc and garden in the heart of the resort of Arcachon

Arcachon Ville d'Automne

The Ville d'Automne is the eastern part of Arcachon, around the port area and including the beaches of Eyrac and Aiguillon

Arcachon Pereire beach

Arcachon's Pereire beach is a favourite with locals and holiday makers.

Arcachon town beach

The town beach of Arcachon is a long sandy beach with lots of facilities.

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Gironde

Address: Arcachon, Bordeaux, Aquitaine, 33120, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 44.659, longitude -1.167

Plan your visit to Arcachon, Gironde

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Bassin d'Arcachon : site of natural beauty (3 km)
• Île aux Oiseaux (Gironde): site of natural beauty (5 km)
• Dune du Pilat : grand site of france (9 km)
• Domaine de Certes: site of natural beauty (13 km)
• Etang de Cazaux et Sanguinet: site of natural beauty (19 km)
• Biscarrosse : ville fleurie 4* (29 km)
• Etang de Biscarrosse et Parentis: site of natural beauty (34 km)
• Parc zoologique de Bordeaux Pessac: zoo or wildlife park (41 km)
• Bordeaux : secteur sauvegarde (50 km)
• Bordeaux basilique Saint-Seurin (monuments on French pilgrim routes) : heritage site (50 km)
• Landes de Gascogne: regional natural parc (51 km)
• Bordeaux Port : heritage site (51 km)

Market days in Arcachon, France

Regular market(s) are held in Arcachon each every day. (Markets are held in the morning unless stated.)

The French version of this page is at Arcachon (Francais)

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