South West Coast and Vineyards holiday cottages
Winelands and white-topped waves
From silver surf to precious vines, rent a luxury holiday gite in South West Coast and Vineyards and you'll be spoilt by the rich scenery of south-western France.
Outside your country gite, lush landscapes are waiting to be discovered. One thousand square kilometres of vineyards clothe the countryside around Bordeaux, whilst the towering peaks of the Pyrénées provide a rugged backdrop in the south.
Things to see and do in South West Coast and Vineyards
Step out of your French holiday cottage to explore south-western France's coastal paradise…
- Côte d'Argent: France's 'California coast' for surfing, where white-topped breakers roll onto endless sandy shores.
- Coastal lakes: Cycle trails link seaside resorts with a string of lakes where you can enjoy swimming, windsurfing and picnics in the pine woods.
- Bordeaux: Soak up the culture and sophistication of the city's architectural grandeur, leafy parks, artistic treasures and chic shops.
- Biarritz: Royalty, the rich and famous have flocked to this fashionable resort for more than 100 years. Napolean III started the trend in the mid-19th-century followed by Queen Victoria and Edward VII.
Tastes of South West Coast and Vineyards
- Bordeaux wines: Splash out on prestigious vintages from the Margaux, Lafitte and Mouton Rothchild châteaux, enjoy fine St Emilion reds and try the sweet Sauterne dessert wines.
- Arcachon oysters: Fresh from the beds in the Bay of Arcachon, these plump delicacies top every menu.
- Bayonne Ham: This Basque speciality is simply delicious in wafer-thin slices.
Don't miss...
- The Winelands: Vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see around Bordeaux, St Emilion and in the Haut Médoc so follow well marked routes for tours and tastings at famous wine châteaux.
- Bayonne: This was the first chocolate-making city in France, where master chocolatiers still produce the traditionally dark and bitter varieties. In the Basque corner of France you'll also spot Makhila walking sticks, which were made to be both decorative and defensive.
Our regional team recommends
- Climb Europe's highest sand dune, the Dune du Pyla, and take a picnic for a day of fun on the vast desert-scape which tumbles to the sea.
- Watch fishermen unload anchovies and sardines from their colourful boats in the bustling harbour of St Jean de Luz.
- Explore the medieval walled town of St Emilion with its honey-hued buildings and hilly cobbled streets.
Did you know...?
The Bordeaux Fête du Vin is a lively event of concerts, wine tastings and fireworks on the city's riverside which lasts for four days and four nights in July.
Cottages to rent in France
Nearest Airports
Bordeaux and Biarritz.
Nearest Ferryports
St Malo and Roscoff.
Travel Tip
If you're planning to visit the Bordeaux wineries, be aware that many are closed during the grape harvests in October.
