Nouvelle-Aquitaine

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, as well as its many unique activities and experiences.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine welcomes all types of travelers, whatever their interests may be: nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, sports enthusiasts, those seeking relaxation, or foodies. One thing is certain: it will satisfy everyone’s desires.

Discover the must-sees of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, is a gold mine for enthusiasts of heritage, gastronomy, landscapes dazzling sights and sports activities. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in this multifaceted region.

Bordeaux and its reflecting pool

Heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and jewel of France, Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts an exceptional architectural ensemble, particularly along the banks of the Garonne River, where you can admire the famous water mirror.

The latter, the world’s largest reflecting body of water, offers a play of light and mist, creating a magical scene. Dynamic and culturally rich, Bordeaux is also famous for its wines and traditional cuisine of the Southwest.

The Dune du Pilat and the Arcachon Basin

The Dune du Pilat, the highest dune in Europe, stands at the entrance to the Arcachon Bay, a lagoon home to oyster harbors, beaches with fine sand and pristine islands. From its summit, enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Landes Forest. This must-see destination welcomes millions of visitors each year; it can be reached via a staircase or by climbing up the sand dune.

The picturesque villages of Périgord

The Périgord, or Dordogne, is rich in history and culture, with its four distinct regions: black, white, green, and purple. It is 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. It’s a dream destination for lovers of history, nature, and fine dining.

The Basque coast, from Biarritz to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Stretching from the mouth of the Adour River to the Spanish border, the Basque Coast 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 Biarritzwith its famous casino, the Rocher de la Vierge and its surf spots, as well as Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a charming pirate town where Louis XIV married the Infanta of Spain.

Gastronomy and traditions: a journey of the senses

Discover Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region renowned for its rich culinary traditions, exceptional wines, and fine spirits. This region, which celebrates the pleasures of the table—whether sweet or savory, from land or sea—is sure to delight food lovers from all walks of life. Furthermore, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is imbued with a festive spirit, honoring its heritage, culture, and way of life through numerous 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,» is delicious in omelets, scrambled eggs, or salads.

The region's prestigious vineyards

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, home to the world’s largest region for fine wines, offers a mosaic of flavors and appellations. Its famous vineyards include:

• The Bordeaux wine region, home to fine wines divided into 60 AOCs, such as Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, and Médoc.
• The Charente vineyards, cradle of cognac 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:

• The Bayonne Festival, a popular celebration with an unforgettable atmosphere.
• Ferias, featuring bullfighting and festive events in various local towns.
• Christmas markets offer a chance to discover local crafts and enjoy magical festivities, especially in Bordeaux, Périgueux, Limoges, and Angoulême.

Unique activities and experiences in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region brimming with possibilities, offers unique activities and experiences to satisfy every interest. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, nature, or wellness, 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, forests, lakes and rivers. Hike across the Pyrenees on the GR® 10, from the Basque Country to Bigorre, taking in iconic sights such as the Pic du Midi d’Ossau, the Cirque de Gavarnie, and Lake Gaube.

Be sure to explore the Landes Massif as well and take a walk through Europe’s largest forest. This forest is home to a wealth of biodiversity, which you can discover on walks along the region’s many lakes and ponds, including Lake Hourtin-Carcans, France’s largest natural lake.

Surfing and water sports on the Atlantic coast

New Aquitaine, a true paradise for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, offers fine sandy beaches and lively seaside resorts along the Atlantic Ocean. World-famous surf spots such as Biarritz, LacanauHossegor and Anglet host renowned competitions.

Try your hand at a variety of water sports, such as kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding paddlethe kayak water sports or sailing. And when you’re ready to relax, enjoy the peaceful beaches of the Basque Coast, the Arcachon Basin, or Île de Ré.

Cultural visits: from Lascaux to Cognac

New Aquitaine is distinguished by a rich cultural heritage that shapes its history, identity, and creativity. Visit exceptional sites such as the Lascaux Cave, known for its ancient cave paintings, and the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore charming towns and villages such as Bordeaux, Poitiers, Saint-Émilion, Sarlat, and Collonges-la-Rouge, each rich in architectural and culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in the world of cognac by visiting distilleries and vineyards, and sample the different varieties of this famous spirit.

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 and 29 spa resorts that will meet your needs.

You can also choose wellness getaways in the heart of nature, offering unusual accommodation with an eco-friendly spa, yoga paddle, or a massage in the forest.

Conclusion

Nouvelle-Aquitaine stands out as a must-visit region for travelers, whatever they’re looking for: diverse landscapes, cultural richness, a wide range of heritage sites, and culinary specialties. This wealth of attractions makes it a top destination for both those who love to explore and food enthusiasts.

It also offers a wide range of activities and experiences suited to all interests and ages, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature, culture, sports, and wellness.

An experience to live, discover and share, New Aquitaine awaits you. 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 is the difference between Aquitaine and Nouvelle-Aquitaine?

Aquitaine referred to a separate administrative region that, on January 1, 2016, merged with the Poitou-Charentes and Limousin regions to form Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Nouvelle-Aquitaine is therefore a larger region with a larger population than the original Aquitaine.