Manoir Boutonniere is located in a traditional Gironde village around an hour north-east of Bordeaux, only 17km from Saint-Émilion. If not driving, fly into Bordeaux or Bergerac Airports, both just under an hour away by car, or arrive via the village train station which is a 15-minute walk away (with connections to Bordeaux Saint Jean for the TGV service to Paris Montparnasse).
Within walking distance you will find a highly regarded boulangerie alongside a supermarket, some good restaurants and pizzerias, a butchers and a local winemaker where you can sample wine. The village’s weekly market takes place on a Friday morning.
There is a park just a few minutes away on foot and an open-air swimming pool (open Tuesday to Sunday afternoons in July and August only) not far from the banks of the Isle River. Just down the road is a small amusement park with all sorts of activities that families will love.
In the heart of the Bordeaux wine region, a short distance from the vineyards of Pomerol (17km), there are many excellent vineyards and renowned restaurants across this part of south-western France. Embrace the beauty of the French countryside by following hiking or cycling trails and canoe along the Isle River near the riverside town of Montpon-Ménestérol (17km). Water-lovers can spend time by Lac des Nauves (9km) and Lac des Dagueys (20km) just north of Libourne with a variety of seasonal lakeside activities and watersports.
Saint-Émilion (18km) is one of the main highlights of the region, a beautiful hilltop town with a rich heritage surrounded by vineyards that are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old town dates back to pre-historic times and as you stroll around you can admire Romanesque churches, pretty squares and fascinating underground catacombs. As well as its incredible vineyards, you will find many wonderful restaurants in and around Saint-Émilion.
Keen gastronomes should also visit the restaurants and lively Sunday morning market in Libourne (20km), one of the Gironde’s largest markets which takes place in the historic centre, or head to the colourful indoor market (three mornings a week). The twice-weekly market in Coutras (9km) is a popular event, as are the gourmand markets and other festivities that take place in the summer months. Another market that is worthy of a visit takes place in Saint-Seurin-sur-l'lsle (5km) on a Sunday morning, a great way to stock up on a wealth of delicious produce.
Bordeaux (62km) is a grand day out, only a 40-minute train journey from the village station, with its wine bars, vibrant restaurant scene, museums, historic buildings and riverside setting. Trains from the station also depart in the opposite direction towards the historic city of Périgueux (84km), taking less than 45 minutes.
Discover the banks of the Dordogne River near the historic market towns of Castillon-la-Bataille (23km) and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (40km) or drive as far as Bergerac (52km) where you can take a river cruise on a traditional gabarre vessel as well as admire the town’s rich heritage and wineries.
The Region
Aquitaine’s reputation as a varied and enchanting destination is well-earned – whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, this beautiful part of south-western France is a feast for every one of the senses.
