Bordeaux
OTHER ACTIVITIES
> Watersports on the lake : sailing, wind-surfing, catamaran, kayaking, canoëing water-skiing, boat rides...
> Tennis
> Horse-riding
> Climbing wall.
> Walking : 120 km of paths (also for cycling and horse-riding) and fitness trail.
Sainte Helene church dating from the 17th century and the historical museum "Regards sur le passe".
A cinema and restaurants...
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
IN & AROUND HOURTIN:
Hourtin is the ideal base for excursions in the Medoc area, starting with the famous vineyards and wine tasting tours through the beauty of the landscape to the treasures of the South-West cuisine. And while you're at it, do visit the many local castles...and don't forget the guide...Further North, the Lake of Arcachon is quite a different and contrasted experience. From the top of the Pyla Dune, the highest in Europe: Admire the view over Ferret Point, the 'Iles aux Oiseaux' (Birds Island), or those typical cabins called "tchanquees". Don'tforget to stop in one of the small oyster-farming ports of Gujan-Mestras and la Teste...L'Entre-Deux-Mers got its unusual name from its location: the resort has a river running on either side, Garonne and Dordogne. It boasts a rich heritage (Abbeys, churches, castles and mansions) and a very diverse landscape and famous vineyards.
Located in the southwest corner of France and rich in traditions and entertainment, the French Basque Country in Aquitaine is dotted with fascinating villages to explore and beautiful sandy beaches.
Be a guest to one of the world's most exclusive tables. France, land of gourmets and culinary arts, offers a bewildering array of food and wines from delicious simple fare to exquisite haute cuisine. With over 340 sorts of cheese and 450 quality wines France will satisfy every palate.
Beyond gastronomy, from North to South France sparkles with an incredibly rich cultural and historical heritage of famous castles, churches, cathedrals and museums carefully preserved and restored which makes it one the most sought afterand enthralling destination for holidaymakers from around the globe.
France takes prides in the rich and diverse tapestry of its magnificent landscapes which have been celebrated throughout the centuries by its many famous writers, poets and artists in words and creations so many of which have become part of the world's cultural heritage and still inspire today's travellers to discover it for themselves. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or want to commune with Nature, whether you wish to step back into history or are searching for an active sporting adventure, France will welcome you with open arms, seduce you with its warmth and entertain you with its wide range of attractions enabling you to achieve that perfect holiday.
A word of advice from Lagrange: French roads are excellent, but not free, so keep some euros handy.
A land reputed for its gastronomy, the Gironde area is located in the north of Aquitaine, running from the mouth of the river bearing the same name up to the resort of Biscarosse-Plage, with landscapes of incomparable beauty along the way. Large beaches, quaint villages built in the local style, lakes for swimmers and fishermen alike, towns with a historic past...this is a many facets region with several museums and local crafts shops bound to please everyone. From pine forests to deserted dunes, Gironde will surprise you through its great variety of landscapes. You can take a break in Bordeaux, known the world over for its high-quality wines, or go to Arcachon for a bit of oyster tasting.
No really, Gironde is ideal for a holiday whenever the season...
