Nouvelle-Aquitaine Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine in France with our comprehensive guide. Discover the top places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a stunning region located in southwestern France. It was formed in 2016 by merging three regions; Aquitaine, Limousin, and Poitou-Charentes. With an area of 84,061 km², it is the largest region in France. The region is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique culture.

List of Places to Visit in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a plethora of culturally significant attractions, including world-class museums and historical sites. Some must-visit museums are:

  • Musée d’Aquitaine: This museum, located in Bordeaux, boasts an impressive collection of art and artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.

  • Cité du Vin: Known as the City of Wine, this museum in Bordeaux celebrates the history and culture of wine-making in the region.

  • Musée National Adrien Dubouché: Located in Limoges, this museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Limoges porcelain.

Some of the top historical places to explore are:

  • Saint-Emilion: This medieval town in Gironde is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its wine production and stunning architecture.

  • Lascaux Caves: Located in Montignac-sur-Vézère, the Lascaux Caves are a series of prehistoric caves with intricate paintings that date back 17,000 years.

  • Roman Amphitheatre of Poitiers: This ancient amphitheatre in Poitiers is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France.

Natural Attractions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The region boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, from scenic coastal towns to majestic mountain ranges. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:

  • Dune du Pilat: This picturesque sand dune on the coast of Arcachon is the tallest in Europe and offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.

  • Pyrenees Mountains: These majestic mountains located on the border of Spain and France offer a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

  • Marais Poitevin: Also known as the “Green Venice,” this vast wetland is a popular destination for boating and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with miles and miles of picturesque trails and routes. Some of the best hiking and biking options include:

  • Grande Randonnée (GR) 10: This long-distance trail covers over 550 km from Bidart to Hendaye in the Pyrenees-Atlantiques department.

  • Vélodysée: This 1,200 km cycling route follows the Atlantic coast from Brittany to the Basque Country.

  • Camino de Santiago: Also known as the Way of St. James, this popular pilgrimage route starts in different parts of Europe and ends in Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Best Things to Do in Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting to surfing, there are plenty of activities and tours to choose from in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Some of the best things to do are:

  • Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: The region is famed for its wine production, and there are several vineyards and châteaux that offer tours and tastings.

  • Surfing in Biarritz: The seaside town of Biarritz is a mecca for surfing enthusiasts, with waves that can reach up to 6 meters high.

  • Canoeing in the Dordogne: The Dordogne River offers a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing canoe trip.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Nouvelle-Aquitaine:

  • Day 1-3: Bordeaux - Explore the city’s museums, historic sites, and wine culture.

  • Day 4-5: Biarritz - Get your surf on and enjoy the coastal vibes.

  • Day 6-7: Perigord - Visit the picturesque towns, castles, and stunning natural scenery of the Dordogne Valley.

Food and Drink Scene of Nouvelle-Aquitaine

No trip to Nouvelle-Aquitaine is complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine and wine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Foie Gras: This French delicacy made of duck or goose liver is a must-try when in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

  • Périgord Truffles: These black truffles are a rare and delectable treat that can be found in the Dordogne region.

  • Canelés: These small, caramelized cakes made of rum and vanilla are a favorite dessert in Bordeaux.

Local Beverages

  • Cognac: This famous brandy is produced in the town of Cognac, a hot spot for tasting sessions.

  • Bordeaux Wines: Red, white, or rosé, Bordeaux Wines are quite popular among wine lovers.

  • Armagnac: This brandy is produced in the Armagnac region and is known for its strong and fruity flavor.

Where to Stay in Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some top-rated options:

  • The Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux: Located in the heart of Bordeaux, this five-star hotel offers luxurious accommodation and excellent amenities.

  • Biarritz Youth Hostel: This hostel in Biarritz is perfect for budget travelers and offers comfortable rooms and a shared kitchen.

  • La Vigne de Germaine Guesthouse: This charming guesthouse in the Dordogne Valley offers cozy accommodation and stunning views.

What to Buy in Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you might want to bring back home from Nouvelle-Aquitaine:

  • Porcelain from Limoges: Limoges is known for its exquisite porcelain, which makes for a great souvenir or gift.

  • Salies-de-Béarn Salt: This salt from the Salies-de-Béarn region is renowned for its medicinal properties and unique flavor.

  • Sarlat Foie Gras: Sarlat is a town in the Dordogne Valley known for its high-quality foie gras.

Local Culture and Customs of Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is an incredibly diverse region with different customs and traditions, depending on the area you’re visiting. However, some things to keep in mind are:

  • Language: French is the official language, and English is not always widely spoken outside of tourist areas.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it’s common to round up the bill or leave a small amount for good service.

Best Time to Visit Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The best time to visit Nouvelle-Aquitaine is in the spring (March-June) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and crowded, but it’s the best time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Do:

  • Try local food and wine. Nouvelle-Aquitaine is known for its exceptional cuisine, so make sure you try as much as possible.

  • Respect local customs and traditions. From religious festivals to local celebrations, there are plenty of customs to learn and respect in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Don’t:

  • Expect everyone to speak English. Although many locals speak English, not everyone does, so be prepared to brush up on your French.

  • Be loud and obnoxious. French people value their peace and quiet, so try to keep your voice down and be respectful of others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is generally a safe region to visit. However, it’s always important to take precautions and keep an eye on your belongings in touristy areas. Also, be aware of pickpockets and scam artists.

Health in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

France has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can receive medical treatment if needed. However, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.

Getting to Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The region has several international airports that cater to both domestic and international flights. The most popular ones are:

  • Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport
  • Limoges-Bellegarde Airport
  • Poitiers–Biard Airport

Bus Stations Near Nouvelle-Aquitaine

There are several regional and international bus services that operate in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Some of the main bus stations are:

  • Bordeaux City Center
  • Angoulême Bus Station
  • Limoges City Centre Bus Station

Other Options

Rail travel is also an excellent option for getting around the region. The train station in Bordeaux is a major hub for both national and international trains.

How to Get Around in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The easiest way to get around Nouvelle-Aquitaine is by car. However, there are also plenty of options for public transportation, including buses and trains. Biking and walking are also great options for exploring smaller towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is perfectly located for exploring nearby regions and destinations. Some popular options include:

  • Toulouse: Located in the neighboring Occitanie region, Toulouse is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage.

  • Bilbao: Across the border in Spain, Bilbao is a bustling city famous for its Guggenheim Museum and Basque cuisine.

  • La Rochelle: This historic port town on the Atlantic coast offers stunning architecture and excellent seafood.

Conclusion

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a stunning region in France that offers a range of experiences for every type of traveler. From hiking and biking to wine tasting and historical sightseeing, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of Nouvelle-Aquitaine!

Entrance to the Old Port of La Rochelle Entrance to the Old Port of La Rochelle The UNESCO-listed place de la Bourse, Bordeaux The UNESCO-listed place de la Bourse, Bordeaux Cave paintings in Lascaux Cave paintings in Lascaux An enormous coastal dune towers over the forest of the Landes An enormous coastal dune towers over the forest of the Landes Château de Beynac, Dordogne Château de Beynac, Dordogne High in the Pyrenees High in the Pyrenees Pont de Pierre traverses the Garonne in Bordeaux Pont de Pierre traverses the Garonne in Bordeaux Half-timbered houses in Bayonne Half-timbered houses in Bayonne Canoeing on the Dordogne Canoeing on the Dordogne Perfect countryside for livestock Perfect countryside for livestock Tins of confit de canard are piled high in épiceries and supermarkets Tins of confit de canard are piled high in épiceries and supermarkets Clos Fourtet vineyard, Saint-Émilion AOC (Bordeaux) Clos Fourtet vineyard, Saint-Émilion AOC (Bordeaux) The joy of the open road in the rural Charente The joy of the open road in the rural Charente


    Charente
    Charente-Maritime
    Deux-Sèvres
    Dordogne
    Gironde
    Landes
    Limousin
    Pyrénées-Atlantiques
    Vienne (region)