--- title: "Nouvelle Aquitaine - complete guide to exploring the southwest" url: "https://cparici.com/en/new-aquitaine/" markdown_url: "https://cparici.com/en/new-aquitaine.md" type: "post" date_published: "2024-06-10T16:20:06+00:00" date_modified: "2026-06-29T07:32:31+00:00" language: "en-US" renderer_version: "3" --- # Nouvelle Aquitaine - complete guide to exploring the southwest ## Summary Explorez le sud-ouest avec notre guide de la Nouvelle-Aquitaine La Nouvelle-Aquitaine vous invite à un voyage inoubliable. Entre patrimoine historique, paysages variés et spécialités culinaires, vous ne serez pas déçu ! ## Content ![New Aquitaine](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/bordeaux-banniere-1.jpg) #### Popular searches #### Categories No results [See all results](#) # **Nouvelle-Aquitaine** Visit **Nouvelle-Aquitaine**with its vast 84,000 km², is the largest of the French regions. It extends over 12 départements, from the [Basque Country](https://www.loclilala.com/fr/pays-basque/) to the Limousin, crossing territories as rich and varied as the Bordeaux region, the Périgord [Poitou](https://www.loclilala.com/fr/visiter-le-poitou-charentes-guide-des-sites-incontournables/) and [Landes](https://cparici.com/en/the-moors/). Its variety of [landscapes](https://cparici.com/en/landscapes-in-france/), crops, [heritage](https://cparici.com/en/patrimoine-de-france/)... and its rich culinary tradition attract travelers seeking new experiences and flavors. ## Direct Bookings for Vacation Rentals in Nouvelle-Aquitaine [**$370.00 - $370.00 ![Villa Lucas 2-7 Piscine-spa, Meschers sur Gironde](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20200519_141942_01-1-edit-20230321171015-520x397.jpg) ### Villa Lucas 2-7 Piscine-spa, Meschers sur Gironde Boulevard de la Falaise](https://cparici.com/en/ad/villa-lucas-2-7-piscine-spa-meschers-sur-gironde/) [**€68.00 - €105.00 ![Pretty Béarnaise-style gîte for 4 people](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/lexterieur-du-The-Cottage-aux-Gites-de-Bernet-Monein-le-Bearn-France-520x397.jpg) ### Pretty Béarnaise-style gîte for 4 people Route des Pyrénées, Monein](https://cparici.com/en/ad/pretty-gite-a-la-bearnaise-for-4-people/) [**90.00€ - 170.00€ ![Le nid du Coucou guest house](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Le-nid-et-le-foudre-520x397.jpg) ### Le nid du Coucou guest house 356 Petit Pey, Cocumont, France](https://cparici.com/en/ad/guest-house-le-nid-du-coucou/) [** Featured **95.00€ - 185.00€ ![Family golf hotel: charm and conviviality by the sea](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/photo-plaquette-520x397.jpg) ### Family golf hotel: charm and conviviality by the sea 28 Bld Frédéric Garnier](https://cparici.com/en/ad/family-golf-hotel-charm-and-conviviality-by-the-sea/) [![6-Person Chalet The Enchanting Village](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/village-520x397.jpg) ### 6-Person Chalet The Enchanting Village 778 Impasse de la Fage, 24290 La Chapelle Aubareil](https://cparici.com/en/ad/le-village-enchanteur-chalet-6-pers/) [** Featured **55.00€ - 75.00€ ![Guest house at Domaine des Catalpas Souillac](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/media-1617160912720-mars_31_2021_05_21-1-520x397.jpg) Now Closed ### Guest house at Domaine des Catalpas Souillac 38 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 46200 Souillac, France](https://cparici.com/en/ad/maison-dhotes-au-domaine-des-catalpas-souillac-2/) [**50.00€ - 80.00€ ![Les Gites de la Roche Élie - Chez Théophile](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_20240526_1704095-520x397.jpg) ### Les Gites de la Roche Élie - Chez Théophile La Roche Elie](https://cparici.com/en/ad/les-gites-de-la-roche-elie-chez-theophile/) [**95.00€ - 110.00€ ![Gites du Roy Chassaignas](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_20250616_214327-520x397.jpg) ### Gites du Roy Chassaignas Nailhac](https://cparici.com/en/ad/gites-du-roy-chassaignas/) [**€68.00 - €115.00 ![Vacation Rental in Fouras](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/exterieur-6.jpg) ### Vacation Rental in Fouras 6 Rue du Maréchal Gallieni](https://cparici.com/en/ad/location-saisonniere-a-fouras-2/) [** Featured **167.00€ - 285.00€ ![La Campanule - spacious vacation home in the Dordogne for 6 people with private Jacuzzi](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_5493-520x397.jpg) ### La Campanule - spacious vacation home in the Dordogne for 6 people with private Jacuzzi 423 Route de la Neille](https://cparici.com/en/ad/la-campanule-spacious-vacation-home-in-the-dordogne-for-6-people-with-private-jacuzzi/) [**85.00€ - 245.00€ ![HOTEL DE CHARME, view of the Garonne](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/cote_garonne_09.05.23_ouverture-45-520x397.jpg) Now Closed ### HOTEL DE CHARME, view of the Garonne Tonneins](https://cparici.com/en/ad/charming-hotel-overlooking-the-garonne/) [** Featured **110.00€ - 187.00€ ![Le Bleuet - Charming self-catering cottage for 1 to max. 4 people, in a house over 300 years old.](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_5802-520x397.jpg) ### Le Bleuet - Charming self-catering cottage for 1 to max. 4 people, in a house over 300 years old. 423 Route de la Neille](https://cparici.com/en/ad/le-bleuet-charming-character-gite-for-1-to-max-4-people-in-a-house-over-300-years-old/) [** Featured **180.00€ - 306.00€ ![L'Anémone - large vacation home for 8 people](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_5158-520x397.jpg) ### L'Anémone - large vacation home for 8 people 423 Route de la Neille](https://cparici.com/en/ad/lanemone-large-vacation-home-for-8-people/) [**$86.00 - $160.00 ![Les 3 Tilleuls Bed and Breakfast, La Rochelle](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/site-internet-vue-generale-jardin-520x397.jpg) ### Les 3 Tilleuls Bed and Breakfast, La Rochelle 132 Rue du Pas des Laquais, 17000 La Rochelle](https://cparici.com/en/ad/les-3-tilleuls-bed-and-breakfast-la-rochelle/) [** Featured **€130.00 - €170.00 ![House “La Parenthèse”](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Maison_compresse-520x397.jpg) ### House “La Parenthèse” 820 Chemin du Pont de Labourd, Bardos, France](https://cparici.com/en/ad/maison-la-parenthese/) This guide is designed to take you on a journey of discovery through southwestern France and help you explore the treasures of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. You’ll immerse yourself in its fascinating history, its deep-rooted traditions, and its delicious [gastronomy](https://cparici.com/en/gastronomy-in-france-french-cuisine/), as well as its many unique activities and experiences. Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a welcoming land for all types of travelers, whatever their interests: nature lovers, culture buffs, sports enthusiasts, in search of relaxation or gourmet discoveries. One thing's for sure: it has something for everyone. ## Discover the must-sees of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region La Nouvelle-Aquitaine, une région riche en culture, histoire et beautés naturelles, est une mine d’or pour les passionnés de [heritage](https://cparici.com/en/patrimoine-de-france/), gastronomy, [landscapes](https://cparici.com/en/landscapes-in-france/) dazzling sights and sports activities. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in this multifaceted region. ### Bordeaux and its water mirror Heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and jewel of France, [Bordeaux](https://cparici.com/en/visit-bordeaux/)This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts an exceptional architectural ensemble, particularly along the quays of the Garonne, where you can admire the famous water mirror. The latter, the world's largest reflective body of water, offers a fairytale-like play of mirrors and fog. Dynamic and cultural, Bordeaux is also famous for its wines and traditional Southwestern cuisine. ### The Dune du Pilat and the Arcachon Basin The Dune du Pilat, Europe's highest dune, stands at the entrance to the [Arcachon basin](https://cparici.com/en/bassin-darcachon-discover-its-secrets/), a lagoon home to oyster harbors, [beaches](https://cparici.com/en/beaches-in-france/) de sable fin et îles intactes. Depuis son sommet, profitez d’une vue à couper le souffle sur le bassin, l’océan Atlantique et la forêt de Landes. Ce lieu incontournable accueille des millions de visiteurs par an, accessibles via un escalier ou en escaladant le sable. ### The picturesque villages of Périgord Périgord, or Dordogne, is brimming with history and culture, with its four colorful zones: black, white, green and purple. Known for its medieval villages, castles, prehistoric caves and culinary excellence. Villages such as Sarlat, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Domme, Monpazier and Collonges-la-Rouge are among the most charming in France. A dream destination for lovers of history, nature and gastronomy. ### The Basque coast, from Biarritz to Saint-Jean-de-Luz Stretching from the mouth of the River Adour to the Spanish border, the [Basque Coast](https://cparici.com/en/basque-country/) is defined by its unique cultural identity, encompassing language, traditions, cuisine and local sports. A variety of landscapes await you, from fine sandy beaches and steep cliffs to fishing ports and lively seaside resorts. Among the must-see cities are [Biarritz](https://cparici.com/en/biarritz/)with its famous casino, the Rocher de la Vierge and its surf spots, as well as [Saint-Jean-de-Luz](https://cparici.com/en/saint-jean-de-luz/)a charming privateer town where Louis XIV married the Infanta of Spain. ## Gastronomy and traditions: a journey of the senses Discover Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region famous for its rich gastronomy, exceptional wines and quality spirits. This region, which also celebrates the pleasures of the table, whether sweet or savory, from land or sea, is sure to delight gourmets from all horizons. Nouvelle-Aquitaine also has a festive spirit, honoring its heritage, culture and art of living through a host of festivals and local traditions. Explore some of New Aquitaine's gastronomic traditions below. ### Culinary specialities not to be missed Renowned for its local produce and regional recipes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is home to several gastronomic specialities, including : - Foie gras, confit and duck breast, emblems of South-West gastronomy. - Label Rouge oysters from Marennes-Oléron, perfect plain or with a twist of lemon. - Canelé de Bordeaux, a crisp, tender bite flavored with rum and vanilla. - Basque cake, a delicious shortcrust pastry filled with cream or black cherry jam. - Ossau-Iraty sheep's milk cheese, ideal with cherry jam or honey. - The Périgord truffle, or "black diamond", enjoyed in omelettes, brouillades or salads. ### The region's prestigious vineyards Home to the world's largest vineyard of fine wines, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a mosaic of flavors and appellations. Its famous vineyards include : - The Bordeaux vineyards, home to 60 AOC grands crus, including Saint-Émilion, Pomerol and Médoc. - The Charente vineyards, [cradle of cognac](https://cparici.com/en/cognac-tour-and-tasting-cognac-houses/) and pineau des Charentes. - The Bergerac vineyards, offering a variety of red, white and sweet wines. - Béarn, famous for its Jurançon wine, the perfect accompaniment to foie gras or ewe's milk cheese. - The vineyards of the Basque Country, which produce irouléguy, a unique wine made from local grape varieties. ### Experience local festivals and traditions The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region vibrates to the rhythm of numerous festivals and cultural events, offering a rich artistic palette. Don't miss : - The La Rochelle International Film Festival, a summer showcase for cinephiles. - Garorock in Marmande, a not-to-be-missed event for music fans. - The Périgord Noir festival, featuring classical music and jazz. - Euskal Herria Zuzenean, celebration of Basque culture. - Coup de chauffe in Cognac, a street arts and performance festival. Nouvelle-Aquitaine is also home to a variety of local traditions, reflecting its history and diversity. Find out more: - Les fêtes de Bayonne, popular festivities with an unforgettable atmosphere. - Ferias, featuring bullfighting and festive events in various local towns. - Christmas markets, a chance to discover local crafts and enjoy magical entertainment, especially in Bordeaux, Périgueux, Limoges and Angoulême. ## Unique activities and experiences in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region of many possibilities, promises unique activities and experiences to satisfy every desire. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, nature or well-being, this diverse region is sure to meet your expectations. Find out how to make the most of your stay in New Aquitaine. ### Hiking in the Pyrenees and the Massis des Landes A hiker's paradise, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a variety of trails through unspoiled landscapes – [mountains](https://cparici.com/en/mountains-and-mountain-ranges-in-france-2/), forests, [lakes](https://cparici.com/en/lacs-de-france/) et rivières. Traversez les Pyrénées sur le GR® 10, du Pays Basque à la Bigorre, en admirant des sites emblématiques comme le Pic du Midi d’Ossau, le cirque de Gavarnie et le lac de Gaube. Explore the Landes Massif and stroll through Europe's largest forest. This forest is home to a rich biodiversity, to be discovered on walks along the region's many lakes and ponds, including Lac d'Hourtin-Carcans, France's largest natural lake. ### Surfing and water sports on the Atlantic coast A paradise for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers sandy beaches and lively seaside resorts along the Atlantic Ocean. World-famous surf spots such as Biarritz, [Lacanau](https://cparici.com/en/lacanau-plage/)Hossegor and Anglet host renowned competitions. Try your hand at a variety of water sports, such as kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding [paddle](https://cparici.com/en/stand-up-paddle/)the [kayak](https://cparici.com/en/kayak-canoe-kayak/) de mer ou la voile. Et pour des moments de détente, délectez-vous sur les plages paisibles de la côte basque, du bassin d’Arcachon, ou de l’île de Ré. ### Cultural visits: from Lascaux to Cognac Nouvelle-Aquitaine boasts a rich cultural heritage, marking its history, identity and creativity. Visit exceptional sites such as the Lascaux cave, famous for its ancient cave paintings, and the Blaye citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore charming towns and villages such as Bordeaux, Poitiers, Saint-Émilion, Sarlat and Collonges-la-Rouge, rich in architectural and gastronomic heritage. Immerse yourself in the world of cognac by visiting distilleries and vineyards, and taste the different varieties of this famous eau-de-vie. ### Relaxation and well-being: from thermal springs to nature spas An invitation to relax, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers hot springs, spas, and natural settings perfect for well-being. Enjoy massages, steam rooms, saunas, and hot tubs at high-quality establishments—choose from 15 [spa resorts](https://cparici.com/en/spa-resorts-in-france/) and 29 spa resorts that will meet your needs. You can also choose wellness getaways in the heart of nature, offering [unusual accommodation](https://cparici.com/en/unusual-night/) with an eco-friendly spa, yoga paddle, or a massage in the forest. ## Conclusion Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a must-see region for travelers of all stripes: diverse landscapes, rich culture, varied heritage and gastronomic specialties. This multitude of attractions makes it a privileged destination for both discovery seekers and gastronomy enthusiasts. It also offers a wide range of activities and experiences, to suit all profiles and ages, enabling full immersion in nature, culture, sport and well-being. An experience to live, discover and share, New Aquitaine [awaits you](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nouvelle-Aquitaine). Don't delay, plan your Nouvelle-Aquitaine getaway now and get ready to experience memorable moments in south-west France. ## FAQ ### What are the 12 departments of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region? Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a vast and diverse region, comprises the following 12 départements: Charente (16), Charente-Maritime (17), Corrèze (19), Creuse (23), Dordogne (24), Gironde (33), Landes (40), Lot-et-Garonne (47), Pyrénées-Atlantiques (64), Deux-Sèvres (79), Vienne (86) and Haute-Vienne (87). This configuration is the result of the merger of the former Aquitaine, Limousin and Poitou-Charentes regions. ### Which cities make up the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region? Nouvelle-Aquitaine is distinguished by its twelve départements and more than 4,300 communes. Bordeaux, Limoges, Poitiers, Pau and La Rochelle stand out as the main cities, playing a crucial role in regional development. ### What is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region? At the heart of the region lies its capital, Bordeaux. An emblematic city on the banks of the Garonne, Bordeaux is the administrative, economic, cultural and historical hub of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. ### What's the difference between Aquitaine and Nouvelle-Aquitaine? Aquitaine referred to a former administrative region of its own which, on January 1, 2016, joined forces with the Poitou-Charentes and Limousin regions to form Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The latter is therefore a larger entity and with a larger population than the original Aquitaine. [![biarritz map](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/carte-biarritz.jpg)Biarritz ### Biarritz map: Everything you need to know Discover the Biarritz card, its types, rates and where to find them online. Get all...](https://cparici.com/en/biarritz-map/) [![soulac sur mer](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/soulac-sur-mer.jpg)France ### Soulac sur Mer - getaway by the ocean Soulac-sur-Mer: Escape by the ocean. Sandy beaches, historic heritage, forest of...](https://cparici.com/en/soulac-sur-mer/) [![a violin on the sand](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cparici-7-577x204.jpg)France ### A violin on the sand: Royan's classical festival Popular searches Categories No results Show all results A violin on the sand...](https://cparici.com/en/a-violin-on-the-sand/) ## Classification - **Category:** France, Nouvelle Aquitaine, Région de France - **Tag:** Région