BRIT HOTEL in Bordeaux (2 hotels)

Bordeaux lies on the banks of the Garonne River in south-western France, on the Atlantic Coast. For many years, Bordeaux was known as the Sleeping Beauty. But since the 2000s the city has undergone a complete transformation, especially with the arrival of the Tram, turning into one of France’s most attractive urban areas. The city probably owes its nickname, the “Pearl of Aquitaine”, to its rich architectural heritage. The city has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007 and has nearly 350 buildings listed as Historical Monuments.

Bordeaux, an emerging city of art

The CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art in the city is one of the richest museums in France housing contemporary collections, with 1,300 works and 190 artists. The works presented in this museum are enhanced by the monument itself and by its unique architecture. The young and young-at-heart will discover works of art in permanent and temporary exhibitions. The Museum of Aquitaine is another renowned museum which retraces the region’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.

The Grand Theatre located in the city centre is one of the most beautiful 18^th century theatres in the world and was built at the time of Louis XVI. You will be amazed by the splendour of the building, decorated with columns and statues.

The Place de la Bourse only dates back a decade, but it truly marks the liberation of the city, formerly known as the fortress city. When you stand in front of the square, you can admire the water mirror which is the work of landscape architect Michel Corajoud and offers a unique spectacle thanks to the mirror and mist effect. This monument is listed as a contemporary world heritage site.

During your stay, don’t forget to stroll in the public park, a haven of peace with its 11 hectares of greenery, and wander through the winding medieval streets of the Saint Pierre district (the city’s historic centre). And if you want an overview of the city from a height, go to St Michel Basilica, a symbolic monument with its amazing panoramic views over the city centre.

A unique grape variety

With 60 different designations, 112,000 hectares of vineyards and 7,000 wine-growers, Bordeaux is visited for its world-renowned wines. You can explore the vineyards of the Médoc and the Bloyais, but also the city of Bordeaux and the Gironde estuary on a river tour on the Garonne. The “Apéro Vigneron” is a boat tour that offers a wine-tasting experience with the exclusive presence of a sommelier or a wine-grower.

There are six Bordeaux wines routes including Médoc, Sauternes and Saint Emilion. Sixty tours are available in season with wine tasting workshops and wine tasting parties. From an educational point of view, you can find out all the secrets of Bordeaux wines in the Wine and trade Museum.

Around Bordeaux you can explore the Bay of Arcachon and the Great Dune of Pyla which have amazing landscapes you shouldn’t miss while staying in the region. Similarly, you can explore the village of St Emilion, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its unspoiled landscape of historic vineyards.