Aquitaine, in the south-west, is the largest region of France. It has
a long, straight west coast, which stretches 200km from the mouth of the Gironde
estuary down to Spanish border. Along this border there are two main resorts,
Biarritz in the south which, once fashionable with the glamour set of the 1930s
has recently been revived by trendy Parisians, and Arcachon to the north with
its grand villas, which is popular with Bordelais weekenders. Apart from these
resorts the beautiful endless white beaches of this coastline are half-empty
during the summer months compared to France's packed scorching Mediterranean
coast.
Another interesting place to visit is the city of Bordeaux, famous for its
wines, historical places and as a host of many international events. Elizabeth
II of England visiting Bourdeaux in 1992 declared: "I am delighted to visit
the city of France, which is elegance personified." Bourdeaux has rich
history starting from foundation of the city in 3rd century BC and until latest
involvement in the aeronautical and space industry of 21st century. Three places
deserve most attention here, which are: the Saint-André Cathedral, the
Saint-Seurin Basilica and the Saint-Michel Basilica, which were chosen as
monuments associated with pilgrims to be included into UNESCO list of World
Heritage sites. To the south of Bourdeaux lies the town of Bayonne, with its
narrow streets and a centrepiece of a Gothic cathedral. The town cannot really
attract a lot of attention but in July it hosts a jazz festival, which is worth
seen. It is also interesting to visit some of the famous south festivals that
are traditionally Basque, one of such takes place in Bayonne during the first
week of August and another one is festival of music in the beginning of
September. The place that has festive atmosphere at any time is the great
seaside resort of the area, Biarritz.
Around the region you will find many picturesque villages and unspoilt nature
that are lovely settings for unhurried afternoon walks or picnics, that also
presents an opportunity to take an excursion around one of the many castles of
the region. The best part of the region for nature lovers is on the south, the
area called Landes. The southwest part of the region is highly tourist oriented
but nevertheless people tend to be mostly attracted to the coast and large
towns, leaving the rest of Landes quiet and undisturbed. There are many
opportunities for active holidays in this area, such as walking, cycling and
water sports, but it is also the perfect place for bird watching, sea and fresh
water fishing, enjoying good food and drink or just loafing. Also visit open-air
site of Marqueze, which offers a chance to see the way shepherds, ploughmen and
forest workers lived in the past.
The traditional dishes of the region include omelettes with truffles,
preserves of Sarlat apples, salad with nuts and goat's cheeses. The ham produced
nearby to the city of Bayonne is well known beyond the region, and the wines of
the Aquitaine from the finest vineyards are know for having its special
character.
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