Seven reasons to spend a romantic weekend in Bordeaux
Fancy a romantic weekend getaway for two? Here are 7 reasons to come with your loved one to Bordeaux to break the routine.
Published on 9/25/2018
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Fancy a romantic weekend getaway for two? Here are 7 reasons to come with your loved one to Bordeaux to break the routine.
Published on 9/25/2018
Share :
Several Bordeaux monuments are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The classical architectural style of the 18th century blends elegantly with the modernity of the quays rebuilt in 1996: the remarkable Water Mirror and the commissioning of the tram that runs on a ground-level power supply, for example. A true neoclassical masterpiece, the Grand Théâtre is a perfect example of an Italian-style theatre.
Considered to be the largest square in Europe, measuring12 hectares, the Esplanade des Quinconces will give you a sweet feeling of freedom. Admire the immense Girondins fountain built by Bartholdi in Lyon, and the sublime Girondins column.
Opening onto the river, Place de la Bourse was the first construction undertaken in Bordeaux in 1730. Along the quays, you will see the Porte Cailhau gate built in 1494 to the glory of King Charles VIII.
The Saint-Pierre district takes you back to the Middle Ages, with its Great Bell symbolising the municipal authority in medieval times. As you head towards the Sainte-Croix abbey church, you will follow the old city ramparts. You also won’t fail to spot the famous Pey Berland Tower and the impressive Saint-André Cathedral.
Heading up to Place Gambetta, you will leave behind Palais Rohan, which became the City Hall in 1835. Feel exhilarated standing in front of the bourgeois residences and magnificent townhouses, proof of a deep respect for the past. Your strolls promise to bring amazement in every corner of Bordeaux.
In the 18th century, Bordeaux was one of the main ports in Europe. During your romantic weekend, a boat trip is an excellent way to discover the city, its vineyards and the Gironde estuary. You will have the privilege of passing beneath the new Jacques Chaban-Delmas bridge, before going to the Blaye and Médoc vineyards.
What could be more romantic than letting yourself be rocked by the river currents while enjoying dinner for two, washed down with a Bordeaux wine? From the wild islands of the estuary to the fortifications of the city of Blaye and its citadel listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you won’t fail to fall under its charm.
Created by the kings of France, the Cordouan lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse still in operation and the only one in the world open to visitors. After climbing the 301 steps, you will be captivated by the view over the Gironde and the Royan and Médoc coasts.
Going away for a weekend in Bordeaux is an opportunity to take a walk without being disturbed by traffic. Indeed, every first Sunday of the month, access to the city centre is closed to cars.
You can go to the market, ride your bike or ride across the quays with your sweetheart. The flea market on the Quay de Salinières is full of good deals, even after noon. The Capucins market brings the city to life throughout the morning. Those who love to sleep in the morning will enjoy this cheerful atmosphere as they look for a place to drink a coffee.
It will then be time to branch off towards the Public Gardens to rest together. If the sun is not out, you can always visit a museum, with free access to the permanent collections.
In the evening, you will be glad to have quick access to your characterful hotel nestled in a very quiet street close to the most beautiful tourist sites and shops.
Does a wine weekend in Bordeaux sound good? The six Bordeaux wine routes will delight fine wine lovers. The Médoc and its châteaux route to the northwest, Sauternes and Graves further south, Saint-Emilion to the east, Blaye and Bourg on the Gironde estuary, then Bordeaux-Entre-deux-Mers. Finally, the city of Bordeaux itself is the gateway to the wine region.
Between wine tasting initiations, winegrower evenings and wine cruises, you can opt for an all-inclusive tour if you can't imagine a meal without a glass of Grand Cru wine.
During your stay in Bordeaux, you will visit châteaux, spend a gourmet day in Margaux, visit the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, without forgetting going to the estuary vineyards by boat. Not far from there, Cognac awaits for a tasting of the divine spirit that won’t fail to move connoisseurs.
Rivers and ocean offer the greatest pleasure for fine food lovers. Your stay in Bordeaux will awaken your taste buds with caviar from Aquitaine, mussels and oysters from the Bay of Arcachon, pastis cakes from the Landes. Basque cake and Dax madeleine are also delicacies that will make you forget that tomorrow is already Monday.
And of course, the cannelé, the sweet speciality of Bordeaux, will delight the palate of those particularly keen on indulgent treats. Local craftsmen make macaroons and chocolates, and also the famous Cap-Ferret dunes blanches, Blaye pralines, Médoc sarments and noisettines and the croquants de l’estuaire which you will also taste in gourmet restaurants.
There are many stately homes in the heart of the wine area which are ready to welcome lovers for a weekend in Bordeaux. Wine tourism has enabled these very elegant residences to develop a hotel service around Saint-Emilion, Margaux and Sauternes.
For a most romantic moment, enjoy a dinner with local flavours in a hushed setting. Return to your luxury suite or an adorable pavilion in the park to sleep in a soothing setting. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and take brunch or a traditional Sunday breakfast. Hotels often offer an all-inclusive service. But if you prefer to immerse yourself in the Bordeaux atmosphere on Sunday, the restaurants serve savoury and sweet meals.
If you are looking to satisfy your desire for authenticity and the sea spray, these few days in Bordeaux will literally provide you with a change of scenery. Bordeaux is just a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast in, so a trip to the Bay of Arcachon is a must, for a cruise in its calm waters and to visit the Maison de l'huître oyster museum in Gujan Mestras.
Improvise an aperitif for two at the top of the Pilat Dune! The ocean view on one side and the pine forest as far as the eye can see on the other will fill you with immense calm. A stroll on the fine sandy beaches in the Landes or Lacanau will exhilarate you as you watch the surfers.
Finally, end your romantic weekend with a bike ride amidst the pines to fill up on fresh air one last time.
