Aquitaine & South-West France holidays

Aquitaine’s ample size makes it one of France’s most varied regions, simultaneously playing host to seaside, vineyards and countryside, as well as the Pyrenees Mountains. The cities of France’s southwest are brimming with foodie delights, fine wine and ancient history, each encased in bucolic vineyards or bordered by sandy beaches. Biarritz is the region’s seaside delight, acclaimed for its stunning beaches and exemplary surf spots. Its architecture exudes belle époque glamour and behind the art deco facades, you’ll find contemporary art galleries and boutique restaurants, which borrow Spanish culinary traditions by serving paella and pintxos (Basque tapas).

The medieval village of Saint-Émilion is another of Aquitaine’s best-kept secrets, prettily perched above lush UNESCO-listed vineyards, which are known for producing both full-bodied Bordeaux blends and sweeter Sauternes wine. The waterfront city of Bayonne is a maze of narrow medieval streets, punctuated by Gothic-style buildings, and is particularly famed for its chocolate. Once you’ve eaten your way through the foodie spots of South-West France, seek out the hiking trails that criss-cross their way through the Pyrenees, or visit in winter for world-class skiing.