The Dune du Pilat, located near the city of Bordeaux at the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

Nouvelle-aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region in France. It is located in the south-west, known for its diverse landscapes ranging from the Atlantic beaches to the vineyards of Bordeaux and the hills of Périgord. Explore iconic cities such as Bordeaux, the regional capital, while discovering the charming villages and natural riches of this region. Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a multitude of activities, whether for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.Wine enthusiasts can savor renowned vintages, while nature lovers can enjoy the natural parks and hiking trails

Where is the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region?

The Nouvelle-aquitaine region is located in the southwest of France and is composed of 12 departments: Charente, Charente-Maritime, Corrèze, Creuse, Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Deux-Sèvres, Vienne, and Haute-Vienne.

This vast region covers around 84,100 km², or 15% of French territory, making it the largest metropolitan region in France. To give you an idea, its surface area is comparable to that of Austria.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the third most populous region in France, with around 6 million inhabitants. It is bordered by the regions Pays de la Loire, Centre-Val de Loire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, and Occitanie, as well as Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Each department has its own identity and specialties, whether cultural, historical, or gastronomic. From Poitiers to Pau, through Bordeaux and Limoges, this region never ceases to amaze with its richness and its must-see iconic sites.

Map of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region

Map of the region Nouvelle-Aquitaine in France with departments and cities

Map of the region Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Why discover the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region?

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region in France, a land with a thousand faces stretching from the Atlantic beaches to the hills of Périgord, passing through the prestigious Bordeaux vineyards and the Pyrenean mountain chains. A dream destination for lovers of wide-open spaces, cultural discoveries, and gourmet pleasures.

Along the coast, the Atlantic Coast unveils endless beaches, perfect for fans of surfing, relaxation, or brisk coastal walks. Seaside resorts like Biarritz, Arcachon, or Royan each offer a unique atmosphere—between Belle Époque elegance, surfer spirit, and family-friendly relaxation. The Dune of Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, is a spectacular site not to be missed.

Charente-Maritime's iconic Fort Boyard is located in the heart of Rochefort Océan. Fort Boyard is shaped like a stadium, with a length of 223 feet and a width of 102 feet. Its walls are 15 meters high. Fort Boyard can be approached by sea or air.

Charente-Maritime’s iconic Fort Boyard in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine

Inland, the region reveals an exceptional architectural and historical heritage. Medieval villages in the Black Périgord such as Sarlat-la-Canéda, the bastides of Dordogne, hilltop castles, and the prehistoric caves of Lascaux invite you on a fascinating journey through time.

Wine culture is omnipresent: Bordeaux and its region are home to some of the largest vineyards in the world. Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Pomerol… so many legendary names that reflect oenological excellence. Visiting a château winery, tasting a grand cru, or exploring La Cité du Vin are must-do experiences for any lover of exceptional wines.

The Cité du Vin is a cultural landmark unlike any other in the world! A true architectural masterpiece, the building is distinguished by its inverted decanter shape. Its façade is composed of silk-screened glass and iridescent, perforated, lacquered aluminum panels. The building changes with the sun's rays and the time of day, responding to the river with its reflections.

the Cité du Vin is a unique place in the world

Nature lovers will also find happiness in the Regional Natural Parks such as the Landes de Gascogne, or in the Pyrenean mountains, ideal for hiking, skiing, or simply wildlife watching.

As for gastronomy, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a paradise: foie gras, duck breast, goat cheese, Périgord truffles, Marennes-Oléron oysters… Each terroir reveals unique specialties savored at lively markets or traditional inns.

Exploring Nouvelle-Aquitaine means experiencing a flavorful journey through France, with varied landscapes and authentic encounters. A region where every detour brings a new emotion.

Travel reports and tips on my travels and discoveries in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Stories and tips for staying and visiting other regions of France

About

A black and white portrait of Celine and her comic traveler alter-ego C-Ludik.

Hi ! My name is C-Ludik and I’m the person who runs this creative space. Welcome to ‘Tween here and there, a travel blog that shares awesome destinations, stunning photographs and captivating travel stories from around the world. No two landscapes are ever the same because of a different light, different conditions… whether it's a new or an old place. That’s what I love about nature and landscape photography. As the famous Ibn Battuta traveler said: « traveling – it leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller ». He’s right ! Behind the photographer, I see myself more as a storyteller. When I arrive on a place, I try to respond to what I see and tell the story of the land. If you love travel, exploring new places, and seeing more of this beautiful world then you'll be right at home here. ‘Tween here and there is the travel inspiration for those with full-time jobs and for those in search of any off-the-beaten track destinations around the world, near and far.

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