Bordeaux

Situated on the Garonne river, located in south west France, Bordeaux used to be known as the Sleeping Beauty! Obviously, much of its fame lies in the fact that it is a major wine industry capital of world renown and is home to the world's main wine fair, Vinexpo. Latterly recognised for its stunning historic city centre, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as "an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble" of the 18th century.

Capital of the region of Aquitaine, the local inhabitants are known as Bordelais. The city experienced a huge transformation in 1996 when the Mayor, Alain Juppe, decreed a rejuvenation of the historical buildings and beautiful classical and neo-classical architecture got a clean-up and face lift, together with a development of the quay area. Bordeaux has never looked back. Preserving its wonderful heritage has remained a priority, and the city is a delightful place to visit. Many streets are now pedestrianised, and a superb public transport system ensures the city is easily accessible.

Bordeaux even has 3 religious World Heritage buildings, part of the routes of Santiago de Compostela in France. Graceful and elegant boulevards stand cheek by jowl with ancient meandering streets, and the lively University students guarantee bustling nightlife and high-spirited venues when the sun goes down.

From the old Sleeping Beauty, Bordeaux these days is more like the city that never sleeps!

Bordeaux

Holidays in Bordeaux