Gironde: Located within this region is the capital city of Bordeaux, a historic city with a number of tourist attractions. Situated on the shores of the Garonne River, the city can be viewed from the Pont de Pierre, a beautiful brick-built bridge with seventeen arches. Other attractions include museums, churches, the public gardens, and Saint Emilion - an UNESCO historic village and vineyards to the east. The Medoc wine region is also located to the east, while coastal resorts like Arcachon and Lacanau lie to the west.
Landes: Situated on coastal Aquitaine, Landes is characterized mostly by long sandy beaches and seaside resorts like Biscarrosse, Capbreton, Hossegor and Mimizan. Behind the beaches there is also a large forested area, one of the largest in Europe, planted by Napoleon III to reclaim the mosquito infested swamp area.
Pyrenees-Atlantiques: In south-western Aquitaine, this region is an area that has both beaches and mountain villages. Biarritz is an especially lively resort town on the Atlantic with plenty of opportunity to explore the charm and history of its coastal location. The region is also known for traditional Basque villages like Sare, Ainhoa, La Bastide-Clairence, Espelette, and Itxassou. Closer to the mountains are also Cambo-les-Bains, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Salies-de-Bearn and Sauveterre-de-Bearn, and Pau.
Dordogne: Located in north-eastern Aquitaine, Dordogne is full of variety with medieval villages and castles, the countryside of hills and forests and farms, prehistoric sites, and theDordogne and Vezere rivers. Some popular towns include Sarlat with easy access to castles and villages, Montignac near prehistoric caves, and many others.
Lot-et-Garone: In eastern Aquitaine, this region has many picturesque villages such as Monflanquin and Villereal, castles like the impressive ruins of the Chateau de Bonaguil, and rolling forested hills. The area is characterized by quiet scenic roads and traditional market towns.
Since the province of Aquitaine is so extensive and varied, activities can range from beachside fun with swimming and surfing, exploring the countryside and its vineyards, sightseeing historic destinations like villages and castles, enjoying cycling and walking amidst the beautiful scenery, and so much more.
A nice way to explore destinations in Aquitaine is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Full Day Tour Saint Emilion with lunch two Chateaux and Village for $203 details
- Lascaux IV Visit - Half Day Tour from Sarlat for $116 details
- Bordeaux Farmers Market Tour and Gourmet River Cruise for $183 details