10 places that capture the spirit of Aquitaine
Aquitaine captivates with its calm and character. In this southwestern region of France, dunes along the Atlantic coast give way to the green valleys and limestone cliffs of the Dordogne. It’s a landscape that encourages you to slow down. Here, there’s room to move, to pause, and to truly take in your surroundings.
The charm of Aquitaine also lies in its towns and villages—each with its own character, flavors, and a story that stays with you.
1. Saint-Émilion
More than just wine country, Saint-Émilion is a village of golden stone, underground churches, and timeless charm. Beneath the vineyards lies a network of monolithic cellars, and above, medieval lanes climb towards panoramic views. Visit in the early morning, when the streets are quiet and the scent of freshly baked cannelés drifts from hidden courtyards.
2. La Roque-Gageac
A village carved into a cliffside, hugging the Dordogne River. Every window, every terrace, faces the water. Explore by canoe or from the panoramic walking path above, and you’ll see why this place has inspired painters, poets, and travellers for centuries.
3. Biarritz
Bold, breezy, and with a touch of retro glamour. Biarritz is the Basque coast at its most stylish. Think: surfers at Côte des Basques, Art Deco architecture, seafood lunches overlooking the ocean, and sunsets from the lighthouse. It’s elegant, without trying too hard.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat is a feast—visually and culinarily. Its medieval centre, almost entirely pedestrian, feels like a film set at dusk when the gas lamps glow. Come for the truffles, the foie gras, the markets—but stay for the sense that time has folded gently back on itself.
5. Bordeaux
Not just a wine capital, but a city of culture, riverside rhythm, and architectural precision. Bordeaux is polished without being cold, historic without feeling stuck. Walk along the Garonne, stop at La Cité du Vin, explore antique shops in Chartrons, and let the city balance elegance with ease.
6. Espelette
Tucked in the Basque hills, this village is instantly recognisable by the strings of red peppers drying from every balcony. Espelette is small, but full of character. Come for the spice, stay for the simplicity.
7. Monpazier
One of the best-preserved bastide towns in France. Built in the 13th century, Monpazier’s layout is a perfect grid—every archway and alley intentionally designed. And yet it feels utterly lived-in. On Thursdays, the central square fills with market stalls, voices, and smells of fresh cheese and summer fruit.
8. Bayonne
Where rivers meet and traditions flourish. Bayonne is proud, colourful, and deeply Basque. The architecture is half-timbered, the chocolate historic, and the atmosphere alive with festivals, music, and a generosity that’s hard to fake.
9. Bergerac
Often overlooked, Bergerac sits quietly along the Dordogne River, surrounded by vineyards. The old town is a mix of timber-framed houses and cobbled lanes, and the weekly market remains the heart of local life. Ideal for those who prefer things a little slower, a little softer.
10. Domme
Perched above the Dordogne Valley, Domme is one of those places where the view alone is worth the journey. But beyond the panorama, the village holds cave systems, honey-coloured houses, and a sense of calm that lingers long after you leave.
Where to stay, to stay in rhythm
To truly experience Aquitaine’s towns and villages, choose accommodation that reflects their atmosphere: slow, soulful, and rooted in place. At Nice2stay, we curate accommodations that invite you to inhabit, not just visit the region. From quiet stone farmhouses to character-filled family homes and design-forward retreats, each one is selected for its connection to its surroundings.
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