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The Gironde is packed with iconic sites, from the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, to the underground church of Saint-Émilion and Fort Médoc, built by Vauban. Between Atlantic coast beaches, mountain biking and horse riding along more than 126 km of trails, the region lends itself to numerous outdoor activities.
The Gironde is a department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This region, part of south-western France, is today one of the most visited places for the richness of its cultural heritage. On another note, the region’s natural splendour has encouraged several entrepreneurs to set up eco-friendly campsites to attract the significant flow of visitors. Let’s discover together the sites to visit and the activities to enjoy during your stay there.
To discover the secrets behind the region’s popularity up close, we invite you to explore our selection of the Gironde’s legendary sites.
It’s hard to leave the Gironde without visiting the Dune du Pilat. This natural landmark, among the most visited sites in Europe, offers an exceptional view from above over the Arcachon Basin. The dune overlooks the city of Bordeaux and fascinates a considerable number of holidaymakers and tourists every year.
This landmark bears witness to the importance of maritime trade that shaped the economic development of the area. This place still bears the marks that reflect the vestiges of the past.
This medieval building retains a unique architecture that delights its visitors. Located in the heart of the town that bears its name, this monument is a work of art that draws the attention of history lovers.
What’s more, it stands out from other places of worship as the largest underground church in Europe.
This fortress is a military complex built under the direction of the famous Vauban. This structure’s mission was to protect the region from invasions. It’s now a highly sought-after tourist destination in the Gironde.
Besides the many nature campsites in the Gironde, a visit to the Ornithological Reserve offers you the unique chance to closely observe animals such as herons and egrets. This park, located in the heart of the Arcachon Basin, is an experience that will delight fans of the ecological cause.
The Gironde is a place of impeccable beauty. This generous natural setting allows for plenty of activities. A real treat for visitors to the area.
Plage des Oliviers and Plage du Porge are among the favourite coastlines of holidaymakers visiting the department. With 130 kilometres of beaches along the Atlantic coast, the region allows for several water sports, such as windsurfing and canoeing.
To discover the Gironde differently, mountain biking is one of the disciplines most valued by visitors to the area.
Several developed trails will delight enthusiasts of this activity out in nature.
Fans of this practice will get the chance to cross more than 126 km of riding trails in the Gironde. This kind of practice has seen a meteoric rise in recent years. A real treat for those wishing to embody the posture of riders of old!
It is one of the most visited natural sites in Europe, offering an exceptional view over the Arcachon basin from its summit.
It is the largest underground church in Europe, a medieval structure at the heart of the village of Saint-Émilion.
Around 130 kilometres of Atlantic coastline, ideal for windsurfing and canoeing.
Fort Médoc was built under the direction of Vauban, to protect the region from invasions.
