Campsites in Gironde
There are 165 campsites in Gironde to choose from. The most difficult thing will be to make a choice! To make it easier for you, here are some campsites we recommend: La Côte d'Argent campsite***** in Hourtin in the heart of a pine forest and 300 metres from the beach. Le Palace campsite **** in Soulac-sur-Mer, 300 metres from the sea, also has a water park with slides. Le Paradis de Bazas **** is a quiet family campsite with lots of entertainment and state-of-the-art waterslides.
The treasures of Gironde
Famous for many places such as Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a breathtaking architectural heritage, the Bordeaux vineyards, renowned for their great wines throughout the world, the Arcachon basin and its oyster farming villages, its famous oysters and its spectacular Dune du Pilat... the Gironde hides many other lesser known but equally interesting treasures.
Do you know the castle of Cazeneuve? Located in Préchac and 70 kilometers south of Bordeaux, totally restored and former residence of the kings of Navarre, it was also the residence of King Henry IV and his wife Queen Margot. Classified as a Historic Monument, it is surrounded by a moat which has now dried up. After visiting the royal apartments, you can take a walk along the walkway above the river and visit the cellars and other troglodyte caves. Classified Natura 2000, the gardens of the castle with their superb hundred-year-old trees will offer you a most pleasant bucolic walk.
At the mouth of the Gironde estuary, the Cordouan lighthouse, classified as a historical monument and which has just been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, is the oldest lighthouse in the country still in operation. It is also located in the middle of the sea! You will have to take a boat to get there and the ride will last 45 minutes which will only spice up your visit. The Renaissance style tower is 67 meters high. To get to the top, you will have to climb 301 steps. Once up there, the reward is all the more appreciable, a breathtaking view of the ocean. The other floors can also be visited with a chapel and the king's apartments. Please note that visits are not possible in winter and only from Royan and Le Verdon-sur-Mer.
A 12th century castle, remarkably preserved, is the castle of Roquetaillade, in Mazères. They are even two castles! The new castle dates from the 14th century and has been inhabited by the same family for 700 years. The visit will take you inside to admire the Flemish tapestries and the huge Renaissance-style fireplaces. Restored by Viollet-le-Duc, the monumental keep is superb. Outside, you can admire the hundred-year-old trees in the park and the very pretty Saint-Michel chapel.
Located between the Pointe de Grave and the Arcachon basin, Lacanau benefits from a privileged natural heritage with a mild oceanic climate. It is a destination renowned for its surfing competitions. A seaside resort popular with tourists thanks to its lively and festive atmosphere in summer, it is also very popular with families with its many cycle paths, its pretty beaches, its unspoilt lake suitable for canoeing and sailing, and its pine forests.
Former bishopric located on the road to Santiago de Compostela, the Gothic cathedral Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Bazas is the emblematic stage of the small city. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is distinguished by its façade where you can see three magnificently sculpted portals. It is also a pleasure to observe the Astronomer's house, whose facade is decorated with beautiful drawings related to astronomy.
A medieval town perched on a rocky promontory, Saint-Macaire is famous for its Mercadiou square with its arcades and the superb murals of the Saint-Sauveur-et-Saint-Martin church! While strolling, discover the pretty alleys and its typical old houses with medieval charm.