You see friends, at the end of the lockdown, before this summer I hope so, knowing where to at least go and return. With this desire, reconnect with the French lands which are for some regions still of a wild and singular beauty. I have been thinking about it for a while (lockdown opportunity) with the landscapes taking shape, here over rare natural contrasts: the peaks of the Pyrenees stand facing the ocean, the pine forests and the sandy beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, the oyster beds and the Pilat dune share the bassin. Yes you see where I am going, I will meet the South West. Let me tell you about the next Road Trip I am planning.
7 days / 6 nights
Near. 392 Miles
DAY 1 & DAY 2
NEARLY. 27,4 MILES – NEARLY. 0H50
FROM SAINT-EMILION TO BORDEAUX
The first stop is around 24 miles before arriving in Bordeaux. Surrounded by the vineyards of the Dordogne, lies the medieval village of Saint-Emilion. The culture of wine is absolutely fascinating, but also the city itself with its many 13th century buildings, its still well preserved Roman ramparts and its famous monolithic church which attracts all eyes. What is special about this church? It was cut directly from limestone in the 12th century and is therefore underground. This extraordinary medieval city opens its doors throughout the year to adventurers, wine lovers or simply curious. A city steeped in history perched on a rocky promontory, Saint-Emilion and its vineyards derive their originality from the limestone which has shaped its identity. Legend says that in the middle of the 8th century a Breton monk, native of Vannes and named Emilion, sought refuge in a place of retirement called Ascumbas (old name of Saint-Emilion city).
Where to Eat at Saint-Emilion?
It is an understatement to say that this chateau has charm and the “Moorish” room with its oriental paintings and stained glass windows… Continue reading
Do you no longer want wine and French culture? This stopover in Saint-Emilion also offers many sporting activities: by bicycle or on foot, it is possible to explore the surroundings during superb hikes, horse riding or even take a boat trip on the Dordogne.
We take the road towards the big historic city of Gascogne…
Walking the historic center of Bordeaux is a real pleasure. At Place de la Bourse, the mirror of water is a real masterpiece of over 3000 square meters. The surrounding National Customs Museum and the Chamber of Commerce are reflected in this, creating an exceptional painting. In the Port of the Moon, today classified as World Heritage by UNESCO, monuments inherited from the Age of Enlightenment follow one another along the left bank of the Garonne.
WHERE TO PARK IN BORDEAUX?
Parking has been regulated for a long time, more often to prohibit or restrict its use on public roads than to organize it… Continue reading
The hangars of yesteryear have given way to beautiful pedestrian and bicycle paths, not to mention stores including the concept store Le Rayon Frais. Not far from there, the 114-meter-high Flèche Saint-Michel overlooks the basilica of the same name. Throughout the city, many historic gates belonged to the medieval defensive network. One of them, the Porte Cailhau, offers a breathtaking panorama from the top.
Art and culture enthusiasts will be happy with their city wanderings through the Gascon city. Among its many museums, that of Fine Arts created at the beginning of the 19th century houses several collections of paintings, including an impressive collection of paintings by Italian masters. At the Aquitaine Museum, visitors will discover remains dating back to prehistoric times. On the right bank of the Garonne, Darwin Ecosystem‘s an old barracks today dedicated to alternative culture. Street art is expressed there without complex and you will take there with pleasure a meal in the shade of a monumental achievement. My favorite will go this season for La Cajette, an antidepressant neo-bistro with Brunch and Kid friendly. Bordeaux has so much to offer that a night there will allow you to really discover the city.
Where to sleep in Bordeaux?
Large historic city of Gascony, Bordeaux has inherited a rich heritage. Each of its districts has its own soul, just like its many hotels within the metropolis… Continue Reading
DAY 3 & DAY 4
NEARLY. 28 MILES – NEARLY. 0H47
LACANAU
More than a sport, surfing is a real institution in Lacanau. A stop is essential on this beach or for 60 years, from the Lacanau pro to family surfing lessons, Lacanau Ocean has established itself as one of the flagship destinations for lovers of the ocean and swells. Ideal playground where water is everywhere.
Novice, have you always wanted to try walking on the water and taking the wave like a pro? That’s why we are here, Lacanau Ocean has about twenty surf schools! It’s up to you to find the one that will suits you and all in water!
Airbnb, Surfers houses in Lacanau
Lacanau is a real surfer’s spot but also a small haven of peace between lakes and ocean. Nature lovers will undoubtedly find their account here… Continue reading
DAY 5
NEARLY. 29 MILES – NEARLY. 0H48
LE CAP FERRET
At “Ferret”, in summer, you can leave your vehicle there and all other means of transport are good for escaping traffic jams and having fun as close as possible to nature. You can try the Vélodyssée route, along the French Atlantic coast, is a real moment. Just like the road to the Pilat dune, the largest in Europe.
Access to the dune remains free if you come by bike, on foot or by bus. For the more (…), it is also possible to stroll in pinasse, its traditional wooden boats with flat bottom, which offers you a private cruise and will take you on the small channels of the Leyre delta in a very natural atmosphere . There is so much to do or not to Ferret, that I can write endlessly without ignoring Arcachon as it is only at 30 minutes by boat.
La Cabane d’Hortense
You will need to push past the crowd of regulars for a table at this Cap Ferret institution, run by the same family for four generations… Continue reading
DAY 6 & DAY 7
NEARLY. 126 MILES – NEARLY. 2H10
A stop before arriving at Biarritz
In the south of the Landes Les Echasses is a unique establishment set on a pond in the middle of the forest… Continue Reading
BIARRITZ
Biarritz, imperial city with its Atlantic facade 4 km long, it is located less than 25 km from Spain. History has made the old little port one of BAB’s most famous holiday resorts, the district which encompasses Bayonne, Anglet and Biarritz. The aristocrat was able, especially during the Thirty Glorious Years, to open up to the world.
The splendid middle-class houses on the seafront now rub shoulders with hotels of various categories. It was on the Biarrote beaches that the first boards of wood floating on the waves appeared in the late 1950s. The board becomes surf and Biarritz welcomes you now without judging you.
Where to sleep in Biarritz?
In the enchanted setting of Villa Magnan. This Art Deco building near Biarritz first belonged to Spanish aristocrats before being… Continue reading
Friends, the journey ends here. We return to our homes, without missing out on a certain sweetness of life and being just as happy to revert to our ways.
