France Regions

Discover Nouvelle-Aquitaine


A Diverse Region with Rich History and Culture

Bienvenue to Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a captivating region in southwestern France where pristine coastlines, lush vineyards, historic towns, and vibrant cities converge. Formed by the merging of Aquitaine, Poitou-Charentes, and Limousin, Nouvelle-Aquitaine stretches from the Atlantic beaches of Biarritz to the rolling hills around Limoges, offering a wealth of cultural and natural treasures.

Biarritz, France at night
Biarritz, France at night

Geography and Getting There

  • Capital City: Bordeaux, located about 350 miles (560 km) from Paris. Reachable in just over two hours via high-speed TGV rail.
  • Wine & Wilderness: Famed for exceptional wines (Margaux, Médoc, Sauternes, Saint-Émilion), Europe’s largest unspoiled forest, and Atlantic seaside resorts—ideal for beach lovers, golfers, and surfers.

Historical Highlights

  • Eleanor of Aquitaine: Medieval duchess and wife to King Louis VII of France, then King Henry II of England. Mother of Richard the Lionheart. Her royal legacy echoes through the castles and towns of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Bordeaux: Heart of the Region

  • City of Wine: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bordeaux delights with grand architecture (Place de la Bourse, Grand Théâtre) and globally renowned vineyards (Saint-Émilion, Médoc).
  • Local Life: Explore museums, stroll the Garonne riverfront, hop on a tram or water taxi, and indulge in top-tier wines at every turn.
  • Paris Inspiration: Baron Haussmann drew inspiration from Bordeaux’s elegant boulevards when he redesigned Paris under Napoleon III.
The illuminated Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in the early evening.
The illuminated Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in the early evening.

Limousin: Land of Green Hills and Fine Porcelain

  • Landscape: Vast forests, red Limousin cattle grazing on centuries-old farmland, and a serene atmosphere perfect for hiking and camping.
  • Limoges: Famed for its porcelain, dating back to the area’s Roman roots and abundant kaolin clay. Don’t miss the beautifully preserved 1920s railway station and lively local markets.

Poitou-Charentes: The Heart of Cognac Country

  • Cognac: Birthplace of the world’s most famous brandy. Tour the major houses (Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin) to see how double-distilled eau-de-vie ages in oak barrels—sometimes for a century or more.
  • La Rochelle: A charming old port city brimming with maritime history. Stroll the Vieux Port, explore medieval towers, or visit the massive aquarium.
  • Marais Poitevin (“Green Venice”): Glide along dreamy canals by boat, or cycle amid the tranquil wetlands.
  • Islands: Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron, off the coast of Poitou-Charentes, offer whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, and abundant seafood.
  • Poitiers: One of France’s oldest cities, perched above the river Clain, known for its Romanesque architecture, medieval heritage, and proximity to the futuristic theme park Futuroscope.

Culinary Delights

  • Cognac: The region’s liquid jewel, meticulously aged in Limousin oak casks. Classifications range from V.S. (two-year minimum) to X.O. and Hors d’Age (six-plus years).
  • Seafood & Dairy: Savor oysters from Marennes-Oléron, wedge sole (“ceteaux”), plus top-tier butter and goat cheese.
  • Meats & Produce: Limousin beef and lamb, plus orchard-fresh fruit and orchard-based liqueurs, highlight the area’s farm-to-table culture.

Practical Info

  • Rail: High-speed TGV links Paris Montparnasse to Poitiers, Angoulême, La Rochelle, and Bordeaux.
  • Air: Regular flights connect London to Poitiers and La Rochelle.
  • Road: About a three-hour drive from Paris to Poitiers via the A10 motorway; four and a half hours to Angoulême, Cognac, or La Rochelle.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re craving a wine-tasting getaway in Bordeaux, a nature-focused escape in Limousin, or a serene boat ride through the Marais Poitevin, Nouvelle-Aquitaine caters to every taste.

Interested in exploring further?

Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s storied history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene make it a must-see for anyone seeking the essence of southwestern France. Bon voyage!