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The Aquitaine region offers real variety. Its Atlantic coastline, which stretches from the Gironde estuary to the Spanish border, serves as a place of relaxation brimming with natural beauty, and also as a surfers paradise, with people travelling for miles to experience the strength of the ocean and fresh sea air. The diverse scenery takes in dunes, forests, lakes and marshes, including the Dune du Pyla, the most spectacular sand dune in Europe. Climbing to the top is an absolute must -the view over Arachon Bay, the pine forest and the Atlantic Ocean is truly magical. Further south, the mountains of the Pyrenees offer sport and relaxation, spiritual and physical wellbeing and the chance for some unique encounters.
Then there are the region's towns, which offer an incredible range of sights, sounds, smells and tastes to visitors who are willing to stay awhile. Bordeaux, the capital of the area is world famous thanks to its vineyards, like Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château d'Estournel and Château Pape Clément, all waiting to unveil their generations of knowledge. Aside from the vineyards, Bordeaux itself is an area of huge importance and is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are beautiful 18th century facades, the Place de la Bourse (the site of the old stock-exchange), countless little historical districts and of course numerous wine bars waiting to introduce you to the regions rich wine making heritage.
While the Grands Crus of Château Cheval Blanc or Château Angelus evoke the name of the celebrated Saint-Emilion vineyard, the village itself offers exceptional beauty, and is also classed as a World Heritage Site.
Further south, the Basque Country and its fabulous coastline guarantee a total change of scenery. Biarritz, owned by the Basque Country, is a unique place where people have worked to preserve historical traditions and also the Euskara language. The origin of the language is not known, but the region has certainly developed a rich and varied culture, as the people have always been incredibly welcoming and never turn away outside influences.
In the Basque Country, prepare for some distinctive encounters, as many pilgrims cross the land heading for Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a pilgrimage which goes back to the Middle Ages. Learn about Basque culture by listening to the uplifting music of male-choirs, witness 'pelote'- the king of sports in these parts or take part in the numerous local festivities like the 'Fêtes de Bayonne' or 'la Force Basque' which pits villages against each other in a celebration of male strength. Of course, one must also sample the numerous gastronomic delights on offer- the wines of Irouléguy, the salami of Palombe, the legendary Espelette peppers, cheeses of Ossau Iraty, Bayonne ham and the traditional Gateau Basque for dessert.
In taking you to the heart of this special land, France Romantic Travel invites you to sample the French 'art de vivre' at its very best. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage, where you can not only explore vineyards but also discover art and history. You will sample some unique wines as your hosts share the secrets of their production. As we open the doors of the illustrious private residences, you will have the privilege of sharing a table with the lord or lady of the manor while indulging your eyes and, of course, your palate.
We look forward to guiding you across this ever changing terrain, and tailoring a holiday to suit your desires, where authenticity and originality marry with luxury and good taste.
