A Guide to the Aquitaine Region

The Aquitaine region, with its sprawling vineyards, dramatic coastline, and rich history, offers a wonderful array of activities. Much like our own love story, this area has a long history of a connection between France and the UK! We’re so happy to be tying the knot in a place that perfectly represents both of us.

Here are some of our favourite local gems for you to explore while you're here:

Bordeaux 🍇 The unofficial "Wine Capital of the World," Bordeaux is a stunning city with a history deeply intertwined with the UK. From the 12th to the 15th centuries, the city was under English rule, thanks to the marriage of Henry Plantagenet to Eleanor of Aquitaine. This historical link established the city's famous wine trade with England and created a bond that continues to this day.

Travel time from Saint-Émilion: Approximately 45-60 minutes by car.

While in Bordeaux, be sure to visit:

The Place de la Bourse: Snap a picture at this iconic 18th-century square with its stunning reflecting pool, the Miroir d'eau.

The Cité du Vin: An interactive museum dedicated to the history and culture of wine.

The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux: A magnificent opera house in the heart of the city.

Rue Sainte-Catherine: Shop 'til you drop on the longest pedestrian street in Europe!

The Atlantic Coast 🏖️ For a change of scenery, head to the Atlantic coast, where you can find breathtaking natural beauty.

Dune du Pilat: Climb the tallest sand dune in Europe for a truly unforgettable panoramic view of the ocean, the Arcachon Bay, and the surrounding pine forests. It's a bit of a workout, but the view is well worth it!

Travel time from Saint-Émilion: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

Arcachon & Cap Ferret: A beautiful seaside resort town. You can take a boat trip to see the iconic oyster shacks, stroll along the beach, or indulge in some delicious fresh oysters. For a more laid-back vibe, take a ferry across the bay to Cap Ferret, a tranquil and chic peninsula.

Travel time from Saint-Émilion: Approximately 1 hour and 15-20 minutes by car.

Other Regional Gems ✨You are in the heart of one of the world's most famous wine regions! Don't miss the chance to visit a local vineyard for a tour and tasting. Many châteaux in the Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, and Médoc regions are open to the public and are generous with their pours!