Aquitaine

Information and Tourism

Tucked away in the south-west of France, the region of Aquitaine has plenty going for it, including stunning scenery, a cuisine that is the envy of many a French region, and unprecedented opportunities for wine cellar tours. What is more, it never fails to draw in the visitors as soon as summer puts in an appearance - which is quite early on because Aquitaine's coast just happens to be one of the sunniest in France.

Top of Aquitaine's list of tourist destinations is the Dordogne, an exceptionally photogenic department that is also very, very French. Its towns and villages are replete with elegant stone houses and ancient market halls, and there is a generous helping of medieval castles wherever you go. Then, of course, there is the Dordogne River itself, which sweeps through the valley, cutting through swathes of lush green fields and verdant woodland.

The buzz and clamour of Bordeaux city is balanced against its graceful neoclassical architecture. Classified as a 'City of Art and History', Bordeaux boasts an astonishing 362 historic monuments, second only to Paris. Away from the city streets, the countryside around and about is the biggest fine wine-producing region in existence, being home to some of the most prestigious labels in the wine-tasting world, including Mouton-Rothschild and Haut-Brion.

To the west of Bordeaux lies the Cote d'Argent, a stretch of coast that runs from Soulac-sur-Mer in the Gironde to Capbreton in the south. This 'Silver Coast' boasts the longest beach in Europe and is renowned when it comes to surfing.

In the most southerly part of Aquitaine, the rugged mountain peaks of the Pyrenees Atlantiques rise out of the clouds. Amidst all that grandeur is the town of Pau. With its palm trees and public parks, Pau has the sort of elegant image that can only be derived from having a long history as a watering spot for wealthy English and American visitors.

Aquitaine Information and Fast Facts

• Country: France
• Main city or administrative centre: Bordeaux
• Population: approximately 3.5 million
• Language: French
• Area: 15,950 square miles / 41,310 square kilometres

	WORLD GUIDES TO AQUITAINE
	World Guide to Bordeaux, France A prominent coastal city known for its harbour, Bordeaux lies in south-western France and boasts a rather elegant persona. Bordeaux is filled with beautiful Neo-classical buildings and in recent years has undergone much renovation.

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