Saint-Emilion
How to start this list without mentioning the beautiful little village of Saint-Emilion? Located just 45 minutes from Bordeaux, this UNESCO-listed medieval city since 1999 is truly a sight to behold. The appellation is world-renowned for its vineyards and the village attracts over a million tourists every year. Historically and spiritually rich, you can only briefly explore it in just one day. Stroll through the cobbled streets and stop in the squares of the medieval city to admire the King's Tower upon arrival, visit the catacombs and the hermitage cave for adventurers, the monolithic church, the Trinity chapel, the collegiate church, and the Cordeliers cloister for the curious, or stop in the castles and vineyards for wine lovers. There's plenty to do!
Blaye
At the edge of the Gironde estuary, just 50 minutes from Bordeaux, this small village with less than 5,000 inhabitants is filled with history. As you enter its 17th-century fortifications, you will discover a peaceful neighborhood where you can stop for a drink on a terrace and enjoy some local wine. Don't miss the magnificent Blaye citadel, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008. Known as the " lock of the estuary ," it is a must-see in the Girondin landscape, along with its Phare de Codouan lighthouse offering a stunning view of the largest estuary in Europe.
Mazères
Less than 50 km south of Bordeaux, the small village of Mazères is home to a splendid castle. The Château de Roquetaillade is worth a visit. Two fortresses brought together in one enclosure blending art nouveau and renaissance styles, that's what this castle constructed in the 14th century hides. After a guided tour, you can discover all the secrets of a location that has hosted several film shootings. And to end the day, the estate which houses a working farm offers you the chance to taste their production during a tasting session. Ending on a high note!
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La Sauve
Just 25km from Bordeaux, you can discover the Abbey of Sauve-Majeure, a masterpiece of Romanesque art. This building, with well-preserved remains and sculptures, has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. It is a stop on the pilgrimage route of the Way of Saint James to Compostela. The monastery, built in the 11th century, stands on a large site of two hectares surrounded by encircling walls. The town is located in the heart of the Girondin wine region and naturally boasts designations such as Cremant de Bordeaux.
Sauveterre-de-Guyenne
In just a short drive, you arrive at the bastide of Sauveterre-de-Guyenne. This small medieval village is adorned with ramparts and four rectangular gates classified as Historical Monuments in 1892. A guided tour is offered to discover the medieval charm of this place, which still houses some half-timbered houses. In the center of the village, a square surrounded by covered arcades. Sauveterre also boasts an important religious heritage with its four churches classified as historical monuments. Hallelujah!
Andernos-les-Bains
To name just one among many because the charm of the Arcachon Bay is common... One of Bordeaux's strengths is, without a doubt, its proximity to the ocean. And when it comes to breaking away from the routine of the big city of Bordeaux to get some fresh air, it only takes a short hour and you're in the heart of a landscape worthy of a dream. Whether simply breathing in the sea air while walking on the long pier or indulging in some oysters right above the oyster port and its stunning sunset, the journey will not be regrettable as the break granted is delightful.