In the Gironde department, Château Des Amours is in an ideal location for visiting both Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion. It’s only 33km from Bordeaux International Airport or if arriving by train then transfers can be arranged from central Bordeaux (the TGV from Paris takes just over two hours).
The château is set in 52 acres of grounds with walking and jogging trails, woodland and the estate’s vineyard which produces a red, rosé and award-winning white wine that you can of course purchase during your stay.
The nearest amenities can be found 5km away in medieval Créon with a restaurant and boulangerie as well as a Carrefour supermarket just outside the bastide town. Visit on a Wednesday morning to experience its atmospheric Farmer’s market which takes place in the 14th century arcaded square. Just beyond the town is the historic Abbaye de La Sauve-Majeure, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Spend time in the great city of Bordeaux (21km) and its surrounding vineyards, some of the finest in the world. In the city itself head to La Cité du Vin or take advantage of the vibrant restaurant scene. Admire the city’s amazing architecture and visit some of the brilliant museums for a fantastic day out.
Saint-Émilion (30km) is also around half an hour by car – it’s a beautiful village which, alongside its surrounding vineyards, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander around its charming cobbled lanes coming across pretty squares and churches or discover the village’s underground catacombs. Visit its many vineyards and appreciate the breathtaking beauty around you.
Keen walkers can explore the many forests and hills of the region whilst cyclists have a range of paths to follow including part of the 'Canal des 2 Mers' trail between Bordeaux, Créon and Sauveterre-de-Guyenne.
For a change of scene, the Dordogne river is easily reached with Branne just 22km away and interesting villages such as Castillon-la-Bataille (35km) and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (56km) a little further. The historic town of Bergerac (80km) is another highlight for wine enthusiasts and a pleasant day out – look out for traditional boat trips along the Dordogne.
By contrast, the Atlantic coast also awaits with Arcachon (80km) and its bay just over an hour away or head to the wild beaches close to Le Porge. Alternatively, challenge yourself to climb the incredible Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe.
The Region
From world-famous vineyards to Arcachon Bay and the Atlantic coast, experience the beauty and vibrancy of Bordeaux and its superb surroundings in this captivating region of south-western France. What’s more, Bordeaux has its own international airport and high-speed trains from Paris.
The grand city of Bordeaux has seen quite a come-back over recent years as old buildings have been restored to their former glory. This has attracted visitors from across the world who can appreciate central Bordeaux itself as well as its world-famous wine châteaux and vineyards.
It’s hard to know where to start – perhaps at one of Bordeaux’s vibrant markets such as Marché des Capucins followed by a morning coffee or lunch of oysters and wine at one of the many cafes in the market. Then take a stroll along the Garonne River near Place de la Bourse with its impressive Miroir d’eau for hours of water fun for kids, teens and adults alike.
As you walk around admiring the city’s stunning architecture and historic sites, uncover characterful neighbourhoods, picturesque cafe terraces and delightful patisseries (try the local sweet speciality, canelé, linked to Bordeaux’s wine heritage). Iconic landmarks across the city include Le Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux opera house, the 18th century belltower Grosse Cloche, Basilique Saint-Michel and the incredible Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux.
Bordeaux is also known as the wine capital of France and where better to learn all about the city’s rich wine heritage than by visiting la Cité du Vin, a contemporary museum with interactive exhibitions and wine-tasting workshops. Beyond la Cité du Vin, come across little wine-bars across the city where you can try a variety of wine from across the Bordeaux wine region’s many appellations.
Outside the city centre, experience the country’s oldest wine-growing area by arranging vineyard tours or visiting family-run wine châteaux across one of the 65 appellations across this vast region. From the vineyards of Pomerol and Fronsac to the prestigious wineries of Saint-Émilion and the Médoc peninsula, there is so much to excite the most seasoned of wine connoisseurs across this historic wine region of France.
If you prefer outdoor adventures, there are wonderful walks in and around Bordeaux and fantastic cycling routes including the path by the 'Canal des 2 Mers' between Bordeaux, Créon and Sauveterre-de-Guyenne. You are also so well located for venturing to the Atlantic coast for surfing, sand dunes and oysters, all in magnificent surroundings.
