Bordeaux City Guide

I’ve said it before, but Bordeaux has been high up on my places to visit list for a hugely long time now. Not only is it home to one of Joe’s wonderful aunts who we vowed to go and visit, but having seen parts described as ‘French California’ and having spotted it popping up time and time again, this summer we were determined to head back and properly tick it off in the midst of the summer sunshine.

Having only really been to Paris before (as well as a school trip to Calais which involved an arcade and little else)- my experience of exploring France was pretty minimal- but seeing Bordeaux truly was everything I could have wished for and more. With the flight being little more than an hour from Gatwick, and the city centre being less than half an hour from the airport, everything about the city felt straightforward to access- which although wasn’t integral as we were there for the week, makes so much difference if you’re visiting somewhere for 48 hours.

On top of that, even in the height of summer the city still felt quiet. Not to the point of ‘where is everybody?’ but in a way that meant you could head to a small restaurant for dinner and still get a table- which is an underrated luxury in an age of no-bookings policies. I kept saying to Joe that Bordeaux was endlessly like a ‘little Paris’, and for anybody wanting to explore somewhere new, whilst still feeling familiar- this has to be top of your list. I’m completely in love, and know we’ll be back soon.

Anyway! As per, I popped together some of my favourite places we discovered, and a few spots to add to your little black book if you ever plan a trip.

Staying: La Maison Fernand

After putting off booking anywhere until we found the perfect spot, Joe and I were lucky enough to stumble across the gorgeous La Maison Fernand on Booking.com. Having only opened in June, it was like a true hidden gem- and only having four rooms, truly felt like we’d struck gold with this little discovery.

With each room individually designed and boasting one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept in (not to mention the furniture)- the rooms were spacious, beautiful and were the perfect place to unwind after a busy day.

On top of that, each morning breakfast was on the roof terrace (normally accompanied by resident pug, Marius) and made for the perfect home away from home start to the day. I know this will become our one stop shop for each time we’re in the city, and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you too.

Seeing:

The Cathedral:

Right in the heart of the city is the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Saint Andrew, otherwise known as Bordeaux Cathedral. When we visited, we managed to catch the end of a festival that was happening, and saw an incredible rendition of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells played on the organ. It was one of the most incredible places I’ve visited, and the architecture was absolutely otherworldly.

The River:

Although this sounds pretty obvious, a walk along the River Garonne which runs through the city is one of the most beautiful ways of seeing the city- be it as the sun rises, or goes down. There’s such a buzz along the banks, and being able to stop for a drink, or even head up to different parts of town via this beautiful route is such a treat in the city.

Jardin Public:

Again, if the weather is gorgeous, a trip to the Jardin Public is so worth taking note of- even if it’s a cake and coffee pit stop. With a Natural History museum, small botanical garden, puppet theatre and lake in the centre, it’s a real place of magic and the perfect spot to take five and indulgence in pure tranquility in the city centre.

Le Recharge:

Okay, less of a place to sit down and eat lunch and more of a deli/whole foods market- but nevertheless somewhere to pop by for some fresh produce, or authentic local treats. Amazing if you’re staying somewhere self catered and need some great snacks, I couldn’t leave this place out- as even if you’re not eating, it’s a pretty delicious place to pop your head in to (if that makes sense).

La Brasserie Bordelaise:

If you’re after a good steak and some delicious wine (I mean when in Rome, right)- then La Brasserie Bordelaise is somewhere to keep note of. Not only is the wine selection e-normous, but the food was absolutely amazing with the biggest bowls (!) of chips ever as sides, which can only ever be a good thing.

And also note down:

L’aclchemiste for delicious coffee, Tata Yoyo for a quick froyo pit-stop, Kitchen Garden for delicious veggie and vegan treats and Plan B sandwich shop for ultimate picnic supplies.