Nouvelle Aquitaine is the largest region in France providing your road trip with spectacular variety. This great southwest territory stretches from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the Atlantic Ocean. Your drive will be a progression from elegant wine country and rich farmlands to wild pine forests and stunning coastal dunes.
You can explore the prestigious Bordeaux vineyards and the historic brandy houses of Cognac. Heading south you encounter the powerful Basque culture near the Spanish border and the immense Dune du Pilat Europe's tallest sand dune. The driving routes connect these unique cultural zones seamlessly.
Gastronomy is key here from the seafood of the coast to the rich beef of the inland plains. This region has incredible diversity, scenic beauty and the satisfying feeling of having toured the entire southwest corner of France.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine highlights
- Bordeaux A beautiful city known for elegant 18th-century architecture, riverside harbor and world-class wine culture. Don’t miss the Cité du Vin, a futuristic museum celebrating wines from around the world.
- Dune du Pilat Europe’s tallest sand dune rises above the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes forest, providing unforgettable panoramic views. Climbing it at sunset is one of the region’s most iconic experiences.
- Saint Émilion Explore this medieval village surrounded by some of the world's most prestigious vineyards and explore its unique underground monolithic church.
- La Rochelle & Île de Ré La Rochelle charms with its old port, medieval towers, and lively maritime atmosphere. Cross the bridge to Île de Ré for chic villages, endless bike paths and great beaches.
- Dordogne Valley Known for prehistoric caves, medieval castles, and picturesque riverside villages like La Roque-Gageac. It’s perfect for canoeing, slow travel, and exploring traditional French gastronomy.
- Biarritz A glamorous Atlantic resort mixing surfing culture with Belle Époque elegance. Its dramatic coastline, thalasso spas and Basque identity make it a fascinating destination.
- Cognac Home to the world-famous spirit, Cognac has distillery tours, aging cellars and riverfront walks along the Charente. Tasting sessions reveal centuries-old craftsmanship and regional pride.
- Pau & the Pyrénées Pau features a royal château, palm-lined boulevards and spectacular views of the Pyrénées. It’s also a gateway to mountain lakes, hiking trails and charming alpine villages.
- Aubeterre-sur-Dronne Bit of a hidden gem. Listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” this hilltop village is known for its extraordinary underground church. Its sunny terraces, river beaches and boutiques make it a perfect quiet escape.
The local Four
History of Nouvelle-Aquitaine
For over three centuries the core of this region was actually ruled by the kings of England. This began when Eleanor of Aquitaine married the future Henry II linking the territory to the English crown. This long connection brought great wealth through the wine trade and resulted in the powerful fortified towns you can still see today.
The region’s economic engine was the mighty Bordeaux wine trade which funded beautiful churches and stately city architecture. Yet Nouvelle Aquitaine is a mosaic of different cultures. The south harbors the unique Basque people near the Pyrenees maintaining distinct language and traditions. Inland regions like Limousin meanwhile kept their own customs separate from the coastal wine ports.
The region officially returned to the French crown after the Hundred Years War solidifying its role as the great southwest. Today the history is visible everywhere from the massive medieval churches to the elegant 18th century city centers built from wine money. It give you a fascinating journey that explores everything from ancient caves and mountain passes to the unique cultural blend of the Atlantic coast.