Nouvelle-Aquitaine Holiday Rentals

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is a region with varied landscapes, ranging from the beaches of the Atlantic to the mountains of the Pyrenees, prestigious vineyards and medieval villages. It is ideal for a holiday combining nature, heritage and gastronomy. You will find activities for all tastes: surfing, hiking, visits to castles, wine tasting and culinary discoveries.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine can be visited all year round, but the best times depend on your activities. In summer, the beaches of the Atlantic coast are perfect for water sports and relaxation. Spring and autumn are ideal for walks in the vineyards or historic villages, while winter is perfect for mountain sports in the Pyrenees.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a vast region, so there are several stations available depending on your specific destination. The main ones are:

• Bordeaux Saint-Jean station to access the Atlantic coast, the Médoc and the Bordeaux vineyards.
• Biarritz or Bayonne train station for the Pyrénées-Atlantiques and the Basque coast.
• La Rochelle station for the Charente-Maritime.

One of the most beautiful beaches in the region is without a doubt the beach of Hossegor. Famous for its perfect waves, it is a must-see for surfers, but also for those who want to enjoy a vast stretch of fine sand surrounded by pine forests. It combines wild nature and seaside atmosphere, with an intact natural charm.

There are many options for a ride:

• Sentier des Douaniers: this coastal trail in Vieux-Boucau will allow you to discover the natural beauty of the region while offering spectacular panoramas.
• Lake Hossegor: A walk around the lake is perfect for observing local flora and fauna. You can also go kayaking.
• Chassiron Lighthouse: a walk around the lighthouse, with splendid views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
• The Regional Natural Park of Millevaches: nearby, this park offers many possibilities for walks in nature.
• Circuit of fountains: a route of the Roche-Posay that will make you discover the different fountains of the city, perfect for a cultural walk.
• The Rock of the Virgin: accessible by a bridge, this emblematic viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the sea and the port.

You can shop in the big cities like Bordeaux, La Rochelle or Pau, which have supermarkets and local markets. For an authentic experience, traditional markets are a great option to buy local produce, especially in cities like Sarlat or Bayonne.

The water temperature on the Atlantic coast varies with the season. In summer, it is between 18°C and 22°C.

Many beaches on the Atlantic coast are monitored in summer, ensuring a safe swim. Beaches such as those of Biarritz, Hossegor or the island of Oléron have supervised bathing areas.

• Marché de Vieux Boucau: this market is held every Tuesday morning from 8am to 1pm during the summer season, and also outside the season, usually on Wednesdays.
• Hossegor market: this market is held every Thursday morning from 8am to 1pm, with a large selection of local products, including fruits, vegetables and regional specialties.
• Saint Denis d'Oléron market: it is held every Friday morning, and during the high summer season, it is also present on Wednesday mornings.
• Beynat market: every Wednesday morning. This local market offers regional products and crafts.
• La Roche-Posay market: this market takes place every Saturday morning, where you can find fresh products, crafts and local specialties.
• Moncoutant market: the market is held every Thursday morning, offering a variety of fresh products, food and crafts.
• Les Halles market in Biarritz: open every day except Monday, with a strong affluence in the morning and a lively atmosphere. The market is particularly lively on Wednesday morning to Sunday.

These markets are ideal places to discover local products, meet the locals and soak up the authentic atmosphere of each locality.

For a pleasant walk, you can discover:

• Lac de Vieux Boucau: walk around the lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful setting with bike paths and walking trails.
• Salt marshes: stroll through the salt marshes of Saint Denis d'Oléron, a unique ecosystem where you can observe local biodiversity.
• Hiking trails: explore the trails that leave from Beynat to discover the beauty of the landscapes of Corrèze, especially in the direction of the Gorges de la Dordogne.
• Walk along the Creuse: a pleasant path from La Roche-Posay to walk along the river, with charming viewpoints and relaxation areas.
• Walk along the river: stroll along the Le Petit Thouars river, a peaceful setting to relax towards Moncoutant.
• The Coastal Trail: a beautiful walk along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs. This route runs from Biarritz to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a land of gastronomy. Among its specialties:

• Foie gras and truffles from the Périgord.
• The oysters of Marennes-Oléron in Charente-Maritime.
• Prestigious wines, including Bordeaux and Cognac.
• The ham of Bayonne and cheeses of the Pyrenees.

Some must-see cities to visit around Nouvelle-Aquitaine are:

• Bordeaux for its UNESCO heritage and wines.
• La Rochelle for its medieval towers and port.
• Périgueux and Sarlat in the Dordogne for their medieval architecture.
• Pau and Biarritz for their proximity to the Pyrenees and their cultural heritage.