Overview

The Gironde is the largest department in France stretching from Soulac in the north to Arcachon in the south providing 126kms of rugged coastline and stunning beaches. The southern coast is characterised by the mega high sand dunes that protect the 480,000 hectares of maritime pine trees - the largest forest in France.

Famous for its vineyards, historic villages and chateaux, Gironde is the region where the Garonne and Dordogne meet creating the largest estuary in Europe. As you follow the rivers inland, the scenery is simply out of this world with forests, countless vineyards and castles dotted in every direction.

With a rich culture, fascinating history, beautiful countryside and pristine beaches, Gironde provides plenty of things to see and do for all ages and tastes.

Coastal Gironde

Along the 126kms of coastline, Gironde boasts many fantastic beaches and coves that get pounded by the Atlantic surf. Just an hours drive from Bordeaux is the Bay of Arcachon that is famous for its oysters and the Great Dune of Pilat which is 114m high and 5kms long! .

Other well known resorts include...

• Lacanau which is known for its big surfing waves
• Cap Ferret for a romantic retreat
• Gujan Mestras which has several fishing ports
• Lacanau on the edge of Lac de Lacanau

Inland

Away from the beaches, the landscape quickly changes in to what seems like endless vineyards and countless chateaux. Wine tourism gets more popular each year where you can visit an estate, go wine tasting in the cellars and learn how the various wines are produced. Bordeaux is a good place to base yourself where the other famous wine producing villages, such as Saint Emilion and the Medoc vineyards are within easy reach.

A Four Season Holiday Destination

With 300 days of sunshine, Gironde is a year-round playground with weather to suit sun worshippers and outdoor sports enthusiasts - the best time to visit really depends on what you want to see and do.

Gironde has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, winters. On the coast during the summer, the average daily high temperature is around 82°F/28°C. whilst during the winter months, the temperature can dip below zero and it has been known to snow!

Gironde Holiday Rentals

Self catering holiday rentals along the beach resorts and country villages of Gironde are plentiful and certainly good value especially for family holidays. You will find beachfront villas, often with private swimming pool, spacious apartments and family holiday homes to rent along the entire coast.

In the inner villages and towns, the beach villas are replaced by exquisite country cottages and villas that are ideal for getting away from the busy summer beach resorts.

Things To See &

Distance in kms from Bordeaux

Our view on Gironde

The Gironde is a spectacular and diverse region with quaint medieval villages and some of the most beautiful beaches in France. From wine tours and river cruises along the Garonne to exploring the vibrant city of Bordeaux, Gironde will entice you back year after year. The only problem is time - there are too many wonderful places to see and things to do but at least staying in a Gironde holiday rental provides you with the freedom and flexibility to do what you when you want - home from home!