Holidays in Nouvelle-Aquitaine: nature and South-West charm

Why choose this destination for your holiday ?

Nouvelle-Aquitaine stands out for the diversity of its scenery. The Atlantic coast offers long beaches and extensive pine forests. Inland, Dordogne, Lot-et-Garonne and Corrèze reveal peaceful rivers, rolling countryside and honey-coloured villages. Further south, the Basque Country rises towards the Pyrenees.

Nature, culture and food are easy to combine. A day might begin with a walk beside a river, continue through a medieval village and end at a market filled with local produce. Hiking, cycling, canoeing, surfing, castle visits and vineyard routes provide many different ways to explore the region.

This variety makes Nouvelle-Aquitaine suitable for both active breaks and slower countryside escapes. It is a place to spend time outdoors, discover the traditions of south-western France and enjoy a different atmosphere from one area to the next.

What you will love

• The green valleys, rivers and historic villages of Dordogne.
• Pine forests and broad beaches along the Atlantic coast.
• Vineyards around Bordeaux, Bergerac and Cognac.
• The rolling landscapes of the Basque Country and Pyrenean foothills.
• Hiking, cycling and canoeing through natural scenery.
• Castles, prehistoric caves and medieval settlements.
• Local markets and the distinctive food of south-western France.
• The freedom to combine countryside, coast and heritage in one trip.

A holiday for every kind of traveller

Families can combine forest walks, swimming, canoeing, prehistoric sites and beach days.

Couples will enjoy stone villages, wine routes, peaceful landscapes and the region’s food culture.

Groups of friends can plan outdoor activities, ocean outings and shared culinary discoveries.

Nature lovers can explore beaches, forests, river valleys and mountain landscapes.

Active travellers will find opportunities for walking, cycling, surfing and paddling.

Heritage enthusiasts can visit historic cities, castles and prehistoric sites, while those looking to unwind may prefer local markets, riverside walks and the unhurried rhythm of the countryside.

Essential places and experiences

• The Dordogne Valley, for rivers, stone villages, castles and prehistoric caves.
• Bordeaux and its vineyards, combining historic architecture, lively riverfronts and wine routes.
• The Landes coast and Arcachon Bay, known for beaches, pine forests and outdoor activities.
• The Basque Country, from Bayonne and Biarritz to the first Pyrenean landscapes.
• Cognac, the Marais Poitevin and La Rochelle, offering a mix of traditions, waterways and coastal heritage.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit Nouvelle-Aquitaine ?

Spring and early autumn are pleasant for walking, village visits and vineyard tours. Summer is particularly suitable for the Atlantic coast, swimming and water-based activities.

Can you combine the countryside and the coast ?

Yes. Nouvelle-Aquitaine stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to inland valleys and mountain foothills. A longer stay makes it easy to combine beaches, forests, villages and cultural sites.

Do you need a car ?

A car is useful for rural areas, small villages and scattered natural sites. Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Bayonne and several coastal towns are accessible by train, while parts of the Atlantic coast can also be explored by bicycle.

What local food should you try ?

Regional specialities include oysters, duck dishes, Périgord walnuts, Basque cheese, gâteau Basque, Bordeaux and Bergerac wines, and fresh produce from local markets.

How long should you spend in the region ?

One week is enough to explore one area at a relaxed pace. Ten days or more are better for combining Dordogne, the Atlantic coast and the Basque Country.