Chateaux, Rivers & Wine

Capital of the Aquitaine region, Bordeaux is celebrated for its thoughtfully preserved 18th-century architecture. Together, its glorious buildings, many of them built on the wine trade, comprise the world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, honored as a City of Art and History, Bordeaux is a “Little Paris” of beautiful boulevards, Gothic and baroque churches, and lovely parks and gardens. The towering spire of the flamboyant Basilica of St. Michael is visible from all over the city, while the city’s green spaces are a delight to explore on foot.

Stately mansions, restored houses and grand squares form the heart of Bordeaux’s old town. Among its treasures, the neoclassical Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is the pride of the city. Another cultural gem, and a national monument of France, is the spectacular Cathedral of St. Andrew. In 1137, Eleanor of Aquitaine wed the future Louis VII in the cathedral when she was 13 years old. The elegant, 17-arched Stone Bridge is favored among the Bordelais for whiling away an afternoon and capturing views over the river, docks and the harbor.

Libourne is a gastronomic haven, an inviting destination full of the authentic flavors of southwestern France. Situated in the picturesque heart of Bordeaux wine country, its surrounding vineyards have a long-standing tradition of crafting exceptional wines from Merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc grapes, showcasing the region’s unique terroir . Libourne’s culinary scene shines, with an abundance of food markets and charming bistros offering fresh produce and regional delicacies, such as entrecôte à la Bordelaise , perfectly paired with renowned local wines.

The village of Bourg reclines along the Gironde, just beyond the confluence of the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Perched on a rocky slope and encircled by medieval walls, it has always had a clear view of ships, friend or foe, heading toward Bordeaux. The citadel in the Upper Town has long kept watch. Pleasant strolls unfold at every corner, from the picturesque alleyways that tumble down to the harbor to the ancient King’s Staircase that provided the royals with quick access to the water. With a rich architectural heritage, it is one of France’s official historic villages.

Pauillac is a famed wine-growing village in the southwest of France. Set along the Gironde estuary, it neighbors other iconic wine locations, including Margaux, Saint-Estéphe and Saint-Julien. Collectively, they produce some of the world’s most prestigious wines. Several Premier cru classé can be found in the region, including Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour and Château Mouton Rothschild. The town itself features a splendid waterfront promenade, delicious local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere rich in both history and charm.

Bordeaux’s good fortune began in the 12th century when Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine married Count Henri Plantagenêt, who soon became King Henry II of England. Their wedding in 1152 led to a growing popularity in wine production. Claret was the primary style of Bordeaux wine at the time and England imported it in large quantities. France regained control of the region and its vines at the close of the Hundred Years’ War in 1453. Since then, the city and its surrounding region has produced many styles, from simple table wine to the most prestigious and coveted bottles.

Cadillac was built as a fortified town to protect Bordeaux. Its mighty towers gave watchmen a clear view of the Garonne, and a clear shot should any foe attempt to pass. This charming town and its 17th-century castle retain much of their old-world charm. Cadillac’s locale on the waterway further gave it a central commercial role in the trade route to and from Spain. The name of the town was adopted by Antoine Laumet de la Mothe, Sieur de Cadillac, who later founded Detroit and governed Louisiana; the Cadillac division of General Motors is named for him.

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.