PRESS KIT 2010 L’AQUITAINE OU LE GOUT DU BONHEUR
Press contacts: Marie-Yvonne Holley, Press Manager Email: marie.yvonne.holley@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Rosario Silverio, press assistant Email : rosario.silverio@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board Bureaux de la Cité Mondiale – 23 Parvis des Chartrons 33074 Bordeaux cedex +33(0)5 56 01 70 00 Fax: +33(0)5 56 01 70 07 Email: tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr www.week-end-aquitaine.com www.oenoland-aquitaine.com
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
The region of AQUITAINE is situated in South West France, with Bordeaux as its capital. It contains 5 départements: Dordogne (24), Gironde (33), Landes (40), Lot-et-Garonne (47) and Pyrénées-Atlantiques (64 / Béarn – Pays Basque) Area: 41,308 km² Population: 3,170,000 hectares (at 01/01/08) Density: 77 inhabitants/km²
HOW TO GET TO AQUITAINE
By road: motorways: - A10 (Paris- Bordeaux) - A89 (Lyon - Clermont-Ferrand Périgueux – Bordeaux) - A62 (Autoroute des Deux Mers: Toulouse – Agen – Langon - Bordeaux) - A64 (Toulouse-Lourdes-Pau-Bayonne-Biarrtz) - A10 – A83 (Nantes - Bordeaux) - A65 scheduled to open by the end of 2010 (Pau – Langon – Bordeaux)
By rail: A complete rail transport service enhanced by the TGV Atlantique and the regional TER trains. Bordeaux Saint-Jean station receives between 220 and 260 trains each day, including 25 TGV trains on the Paris – Bordeaux return route. Bordeaux is just 2 hours from Toulouse, 3 hours from Paris, 4 hours from Nantes, 5 hours from Lille and 6 hours from Brussels. Certain TGV trains travel as far as Paris Roissy – Charles de Gaulle airport. www.voyages-sncf.com
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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By air: Four airports provide daily connections with Paris and the major national cities (Paris is approximately 1 hour’s flight from Bordeaux, Bayonne - Biarritz, Bergerac and Pau). www.bordeaux-aeroport.fr www.biarritz.aeroport.fr www.bergerac.aeroport.fr www.pau.aeroport.fr
AQUITAINE A MOSAIC OF LANDSCAPES TO DISCOVER AT YOUR LEISURE www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr Situated in South West France, basking in the shadow of the Atlantic and stretching over 41,308 km2, Aquitaine is one of the largest regions in Europe. Its surface area is as large as Belgium or the Netherlands and is almost as large as Slovakia, Bosnia-Herzegovina or Croatia. The region extends from the Pointe de Grave (Gironde estuary) to the Pyrenean mountain chain (providing 270 kilometres of fine sandy beaches) and from the Atlantic Ocean to the foothills of the Massif Central. On 1st January 2008 (the latest census), Aquitaine counted 3.17 million inhabitants. Bordeaux continues to be the regional capital. The city has been listed as a world heritage site since 2007. With its current boundaries, Aquitaine is an administrative region comprising 5 départements (created by the French Revolution in 1789): Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne and PyrénéesAtlantiques, uniting two strong provinces: Béarn and the Basque country. It is impossible to define the region through a cliché or an image and diversity is the word that best sums up Aquitaine. First and foremost, inhabitants prefer to identify themselves with Périgord (note: the boundaries of the département of Dordogne are almost exactly the same as the former province of Périgord), the Basque Country, Gascony, Armagnac, Béarn, Haute-Lande, the Bay of Arcachon or Bordeaux. A multitude of highly individual human and geographical identities, which the inhabitants desire to uphold. Yet, somehow the pieces of this puzzle fit together and all are recognised as inhabitants of Aquitaine.
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
Gironde and Landes are joined by an endless beach and "pignada" (pine forest). Nevertheless, they both have individual identities, with Gironde boasting the largest region of fine wines in the world (the wines of Bordeaux) and Landes priding itself on its Armagnac brandy. Caviar from Aquitaine, oysters from the Bay of Arcachon and freerange chicken from Landes are also high on the agenda.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Dordogne (Périgord) lays claim to the prehistoric caves of the Vézère Valley, including the jewel found at Lascaux. It also prides itself as the "land of 1,000 châteaux". The most famous châteaux stand at each bend in the Dordogne river, (Beynac, Castelnaud, Les Milandes, Fayrac, Montfort…) as reminders of the rivalry between the king of France and the duke of Aquitaine (who was also king of England during that era). Regional specialities such as cèpes (a regional type of mushroom), truffles and walnuts were served at the royal table. Lot-et-Garonne takes its name from the two rivers which flow through the département. The river Lot and its pleasant valley are filled with medieval villages and Ente plum tree plantations (where tasty prunes are produced), while the largest city in Lot-et-Garonne, Agen, is lapped by the Garonne, which lends itself perfectly to river tourism. This is Gascony, the land of musketeers. Foie gras and duck feature on the menu throughout the year, while strawberries and melon can be found in season. Further South, Pyrénées-Atlantiques unites two strong provinces. Firstly, Béarn, with its mountain peaks (the Pic du Midi d’Ossau reaches 2,884 metres), wild mountain streams which lend themselves perfectly to rafting, the wines of Jurançon and the city of Pau. Secondly, the Basque country, where small inland villages (Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Cambo, Espelette, Sare, Ascain, Labastide-Clairence) rub shoulders with the city of Bayonne and the coastal resorts of Anglet, Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye. Ewe’s milk cheese from the Pyrenees, ham from Bayonne, poule au pot à la Béarnaise, cod piquillos farcis… the cuisine of this département is inspired by a multitude of produce from both the sea and the mountains. In the Middle Ages (12th-15th century), Aquitaine (Guyenne, as it was known during that era) was much larger than it is today. It also encompassed Poitou, Saintonge, Auvergne and Limousin, and was chosen by the beautiful Eleanor of Aquitaine (12 th century) as the dowry for her husbands. Praised by the troubadours for her beauty and intelligence, the duchess of Aquitaine became queen of France through her first marriage, (*) then duchess of Normandy and queen of England through her second marriage to Henry Plantagenêt (**). (*) 1137, at Saint André cathedral in Bordeaux, Eleanor of Aquitaine was married to Louis the Young, heir to the French throne, who reigned under the name, Louis VII. (**) 1152, divorced from Louis VII, Eleanor married Henry Plantagenet, duke of Normandy and count of Anjou. Henry became king of England in 1154. It was for this reason that Aquitaine was torn between the kingdoms of France and England for 3 centuries, culminating in the Battle of Castillon (1453), where Aquitaine was definitively recognised as French territory.
General brochures available: L’Aquitaine, vous ne voudrez plus la quitter (2010 design) available in English (Aquitaine, you won’t want to leave) and Spanish (Aquitania no querra dejarla nunca). 6
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
L’Aquitaine, le bon côté du Sud, available in German (Die Aquitaine, die schöne Seite des Südens), English (Aquitaine, the South at its best), Spanish (Aquitania, el buen sentir del Sur) and Dutch (Aquitanië, de goede kant van het Zuiden). Available to order from Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board or downloadable from our web site +33 (0)5 56 01 70 00 E-mail: tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Contents A journey back in time 6
pg
Ten good reasons to come to Aquitaine 12
pg
The towns of Aquitaine 13
pg
Seaside tourims, Aquitaine coast 15
pg
Aquitaine, a wine discovery trail through vineyards and villages pg 17 Events and manifestations 2010
pg 19
The collection
pg 21
Picture library
pg 23
Aquitaine identity card 24
pg
How to get to Aquitaine 26
pg
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME
A 400,000 year adventure into humanity in Aquitaine With a rich and diverse past, whilst firmly anchored in the 21st century, Aquitaine has a global outlook and looks to the future with confidence. Boasting prehistoric forts, châteaux and bastide towns, towns of art and history, vineyards beyond compare, abundant nature and unspoilt open spaces beside the sea, in the mountains and in the countryside, the people of Aquitaine (both original and new inhabitants) are supported by the foundations laid by their ancestors. This cultural heritage promotes the spirit of enterprise and innovation in cutting-edge fields such as aeronautics, biotechnologies, laser optics and research and contributes to personal development and a positive quality of life. We have an expression to encapsulate this concept and our passion for festivity and lifestyle:
the Aquitaine spirit HISTORICAL GUIDE AND LANDMARKS DATES
THEMES
PLACES
Prehistory 400 000 BC
Homo Erectus
Vézère Valley
100 000 BC
Homo Sapiens
Vézère Valley
35 000 BC
Homo Sapiens-Sapiens (Cro-Magnon Man)
Vézère Valley and elsewhere in Aquitaine.
35 000 - 9 000 BC
Birth of decorative arts in Périgord, the master work of Cro-Magnon Man. Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, the Vézère Valley bears witness to Aquitaine as the richest French region in Palaeolithic relics, and the cradle of Western art
Lascaux caves (Lascaux II)
‐ Montignac
Les Combarelles and Font-deGaume caves ‐ Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac Rouffignac caves
‐ Rouffignac
National Museum of Prehistory
‐ Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac
Museum of Périgord – Prehistory exhibition room ‐ Périgueux Museum of Aquitaine – Prehistory exhibition room ‐ Bordeaux
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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DATES 600 – 300 BC
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THEMES Arrival of the Celts from the North and the Iberians from Spain. Foundation of cities inhabited by the Bituriges in Bordeaux and the Petrucores in Périgueux.
PLACES Bordeaux Périgueux
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
DATES
THEMES
Gallo-Roman era (or Antiquity)
Aquitaine is soon conquered under Crassus, lieutenant of Caesar. Social integration follows.
56 BC
First mention of the name "Aquitaine" in Caesar’s "Commentaries on the Gallic War" The Pax Romana (56 BC – 300 AD) enables art, trade and cities to develop.
PLACES Périgueux (Vesuna Petrocorium) ‐ Gallo-Roman tour ‐ Museum of Périgord Bordeaux (Burdigala)
‐ Palais Gallien amphitheatre ‐ Museum of Aquitaine (GalloRoman antiquities)
Dax (Aquae Tarbellicae)
‐ hot water fountain ‐ Borda museum
(archaeological crypt)
Agen (Aginum)
‐ Fine arts museum 1st century
The Romans introduce the vine to Bordeaux (vita biturica).
Château Ausone (SaintEmilion)
Wine and the relaxed way of life in Aquitaine are celebrated by the Gallo-Roman philosopher and poet, Ausonius. Middle Ages 778 778
1000
The kingdom of Aquitaine is created by Charlemagne. The rear-guard of Charlemagne’s army led by Roland is crushed at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass.
The fear surrounding this "legendary" date and the troubled times experienced since the 4th century saw Aquitaine covered with a "white blanket of churches" during the Roman era, many of which have unfortunately disappeared.
Church of Mons (near BelinBeliet) where legend has it that Roland’s comrades were buried. Blaye where Roland was buried. Abbeys of Sauve-Majeure and Saint-Ferme Church of Saint-Léon-surVézère Cloister of Cadouin
The discovery of the tomb of Saint James the Elder Saint Front cathedral in Compostela heralded the birth of a pilgrimage (Périgueux) which continues to this day. The 4 main routes pass Basilicas of Saint-Seurin and through Aquitaine and countless monuments linked Saint-Michel, Saint André with the Saint James routes have been awarded cathedral world heritage status by UNESCO. (Bordeaux) Abbey of Saint-Sever Churches of Moustey, Moirax and Sainte-Engrâce. Porte Saint-Jacques (SaintJean-Pied-de-Port)
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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DATES 1137
THEMES Eleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine, the daughter of William X, Duke of Aquitaine, marries the heir to the throne (the future king of France, Louis VII).
1152
PLACES Saint André cathedral (Bordeaux).
The marriage between Eleanor and Louis VII is annulled. In the same year, Eleanor marries Henry Plantagenet, duke of Normandy, who became king of England in 1154.
1154-1453
Period when the dukes of Aquitaine were kings of England.
La Grosse Cloche (clock tower in Bordeaux), "English" bastide towns such as Libourne or Monpazier.
Note: Between the 13th and 15th centuries, the name Aquitaine was replaced by the name Guyenne. 1246 - 1358
Foundation of "bastides". (1246 Puymiro– 1358 Bruges) New towns and villages known as "bastides" were founded in the South West during the 13th and 14th centuries, for economic, political or military reasons, under strict urban regulations (e.g. streets divided with right angle corners, squares with archways). These towns and villages are known as "English" or "French" bastides according to whether they were founded under the king of France or the duke of Aquitaine (also king of England)
Some of the better preserved bastides: Domme Monpazier Monflanquin Labastide-d’Armagnac Puymirol Labastide-Clairence
1347
Gaston III Fébus (1331-1391) turns his Béarn viscountship into a neutral and sovereign principality.
Châteaux of Morlanne and Montaner
1453
End of the Hundred Years War. The battle of Castillon sees the victory of Charles VII, king of France. Aquitaine is permanently associated with the kingdom of France.
Castillon-la-Bataille (historical reconstruction in July and August).
Jeanne d’Albret (1528-1572), mother of Henry IV. A patron of Arts and Humanities, she continues the work of her mother (Marguerite of Angoulême), welcoming reformers (Calvin) and writers to the court of Nérac.
Nérac
Modern era
1589
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Son of Jeanne d’Albret and Antoine de Bourbon, Henry of Navarre (1553-1610) becomes king of France under the title, Henry IV, the first monarch of the Bourbons. He devotes himself to bringing peace to the kingdom, previously divided by religious wars, and developing industry, trade and agriculture.
Pau
‐ city ‐ château Nérac Labastide-d’Armagnac Château de Cazeneuve
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
DATES
THEMES Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592). Epicurean philosopher and political figure (mayor of Bordeaux from 1582 to 1585). One of his Essais entitled "De l’amitié", is dedicated to his friend, Etienne de la Boétie (1530-1563) of Sarlat.
PLACES Bordeaux Saint-Michel-de-Montaigne (château) Sarlat - Maison de la Boétie
1620
Béarn is officially united with the French monarchy under Louis XIII.
1660
Marriage of Louis XIV, king of France and Infanta Maria Teresa of Spain, at Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Saint Jean-Baptiste church, Maison de l’Infante, Maison Lohobiague
Charles de Secondat, baron of Montesquieu and Labrède (1689-1755). Writer, philosopher, squire. Most famous for one of his two master works: "Persian Letters", a satire of the era. Another of his works, "The Spirit of the Laws" outlined the principle of our modern constitutions (the separation of executive and legislative powers).
Château de Labrède
Bordeaux’s "golden century", due to its wine region and colonial and maritime trade. Major works are commissioned by the royal intendants, Boucher, Tourny and Dupré de Saint-Maur, leading Bordeaux to become the finest architectural ensemble in 18th century Europe.
Bordeaux (façade of the quays, Place de la Bourse, "Bordeaux triangle", Place Gambetta, Palais Rohan (city hall), district of Chartrons, public park).
18th century
Bordeaux
Many inhabitants of Aquitaine migrate to the West Indies (Santo Domingo) and Canada. 1763
Birth of Jean Bernadotte in Pau. Appointed Marshal of France by Napoleon, he later became king of Sweden under the name, Charles XIV of Sweden, and founded the Bernadotte dynasty which prevails to this day.
1790
The name "Aquitaine" disappears in favour of the départements created by the French revolution: Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne and Pyrénées-Atlantiques……
Contemporary era
Bernadotte museum (house where Jean Bernadotte was born, now a museum). ‐ Pau
Museum of Aquitaine
‐ West Indies exhibition room
Birth of tourism
19th century 1855
The drainage of the Landes allows one of the poorest regions in France to be enhanced and leads to the plantation of the pine forest stretching over one million hectares, which still remains a source of prosperity for the département to this day (exploitation of resin and wood).
Landes of Gascogny regional nature park (Marquèze ecomuseum in Sabres - Grande Lande resin products workshop in Luxey).
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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DATES
THEMES
PLACES
1855
Classification of the Médoc Grand Crus at the universal exhibition which takes place in Paris.
The Médoc wine region stretches over the left bank of the Gironde estuary.
1856
The arrival of the railway and the popularity of seawater baths leads the South Basque coast (particularly Biarritz which became a stylish resort thanks to Empress Eugénie) and the town of Arcachon in the North to become desirable holiday destinations sought after by the European Gotha nobility.
The Basque coast: Biarritz (Hôtel du Palais, 19th and early 20th century castles) Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Fond of bathing in the water in this region, Empress Eugénie launched the spa resorts of Eaux-Bonnes and Eugénie-les-Bains, of which she is the patron.
Eaux-Bonnes (Promenade de l’Impératrice).
Discovery of 5 Palaeolithic skeletons in the area known as "Cro-Magnon". The area lends its name to the homo sapien species of human (Cro-Magnon Man).
Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac and the prehistoric sites of the Vézère Valley.
1884
Arcachon: creation of the town of Arcachon and its characteristic villas by the Pereire brothers
Eugénie-les-Bains.
Evidence is found to suggest that man was on Earth The term "Cro-Magnon" is not only well before Abraham and Noah. A revolution and used to designate the homo sapiens-sapiens (our direct the birth of prehistoric science. ancestors), but the entirety of prehistoric humanity. Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901). The painter often visited and eventually passed away at the château of Malromé, the family estate in Bordeaux where his mother lived.
Château de Malromé (Verdelais)
Maurice Ravel (1875-1937). The French composer was born in Ciboure on the Basque coast. A musical festival held in Autumn pays tribute to him.
Maison de Ravel in Ciboure.
Village and cemetery of Verdelais
20th century
François Mauriac (1885-1970). Writer, essayist, journalist (Le Monde, l’Express). Born in Bordeaux, in his novels he gives a brutal portrayal of the morals of the Bordeaux bourgeoisie of the era. 1940 1955
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The caves of Lascaux, "the Sistine Chapel of prehistory", are discovered.
Maurice Ravel Academy of Music Bordeaux Château of Malagar and all the places in Bordeaux where his novels are based. Lascaux Lascaux II (Montignac)
Aquitaine is "reborn" in the form of an administrative region, its boundaries defined as they currently are today. It now includes 5 départements: Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne and PyrénéesAtlantiques.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
DATES
THEMES
PLACES
1979
Lascaux and 24 other (prehistoric) caves featuring paintings in the Vézère Valley are added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. The caves are of exceptional artistic, anthropological and ethnological relevance.
Lascaux and the Vézère Valley.
1994
A lighting plan and plans to promote ancient heritage and coastal areas are implemented in Biarritz.
Biarritz, the beachside beacon of the Basque coast
1996
A lighting plan and plans to promote urban architectural heritage (historical sites and monuments) are implemented in Bordeaux
Bordeaux, the façade of the quays, the steeples of SaintMichel, Saint-Louis, and SaintAndré, the Grosse Cloche (clock tower)…
1998
Several sites located in Aquitaine along the Way of Saint James are added to the UNESCO list of world heritage sites.
The 4 main routes pass through all parts of Aquitaine. A secondary route also exists: the coastal route.
1999
The medieval town and wine region of Saint-Emilion is added to the UNESCO list of world heritage sites. An exceptional site devoted to winemaking since the Gallo-Roman era.
Saint-Emilion and its jurisdiction
2000
The launch of major regeneration works (200-2009) with the development of the quays along the River Garonne (right and left bank) based on a project designed by the landscape architect, Michel Courajoud.
Bordeaux: landscape development of the quays, Cours de l’Intendance, Place de la Cathédrale Saint-André, opening of the tramway.
2005-2006
City centre regeneration in Biarritz by the architect, Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
Biarritz: Place Bellevue, Place Clemenceau.
2007
The city of Bordeaux is added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites (as an urban area): 18th century Bordeaux, the Mériadeck district – contemporary architecture-, the boulevards, the submarine base…
Bordeaux (UNESCO tour)
2008
The citadel of Blaye, the Fort Pâté and the Fort Médoc (for the city walls built in the 17th century by Vauban, a military architect of king Louis XIV) are added to the UNESCO list of world heritage sites.
"The bedrock of the estuary":
‐ Blaye: the citadel (right bank)
‐ Fort Pâté: built on an island in ‐
the middle of the estuary, offering a 360° view. Fort Médoc (left bank)
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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TEN GOOD REASONS TO COME TO AQUITAINE 1) An ideal climate for holidays all year round Mild is the word that best sums up Aquitaine’s climate. The average annual temperature is 13°C. From mid July to mid August, temperatures sometimes exceed 30°C.
2) Beautiful towns and cities offering pleasant places to saty in all seasons The regional capital, Bordeaux, in addition to Bayonne, Pau, Périgueux, and the coastal towns of Arcachon, Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
3) The largest region of fine wines in the world Stretching over 113,000 hectares, the Bordeaux wine region constitutes the largest region of fine wines in the world, while the rest of Aquitaine also offers plenty of additional wines to satisfy inquisitive, gourmet palates.
4) A dream region for gastronomists Asparagus from Landes, foie gras, duck fillet, duck and goose confit, Aquitaine caviar, oysters from Arcachon-Cap Ferret, Périgord walnuts and Cabécou cheese, Tomme cheese from the Pyrenees…
5) 270 kilometres of fine sandy beaches and the best breakers in Europe for surf lovers An extensive beach backing onto sand dunes and the pine forest of the Landes of Gascony. The indent made by the Bay of Arcachon is the only break in the landscape. The resorts of Lacanau, Hossegor, Anglet and Biarritz are enjoyed by surfers from all over the world for their waves and the competitions they host.
6) Vast open spaces and unspoilt nature The largest forest in Europe (the Landes de Gascogne forest), the Pyrenees national park (mountain fauna and flora), the Landes de Gascogne regional nature park (historical pine forest) and the Périgord-Limousin regional nature park (forest of European minks, otters and broadleaf trees, display of ancestral expertise).
7) The largest estuary in the world: the Gironde Migratory fish and birds, the islands of the estuary, the Cordouan lighthouse…
8) Lascaux and the cave paintings of the Vézère Valley Lascaux and the entire Vézère Valley (between Le Bugue and Terrasson) have been listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO for the wealth of excavations and prehistoric discoveries found there: Lascaux (paintings), Font de Gaume (paintings), Les Combarelles (engravings)…
9) The châteaux and valley of the Dordogne From Vézac to Trémolat, fortified villages and châteaux stand at each bend and on both sides of the river, bearing witness to the fierce battles which took place between the French and the Gascons (the Gascons fought in the name of the Duke of Aquitaine who was also King of England) during the Hundred Years War.
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
10) A region where festivities are second nature There is not a day that goes by or a village that doesn’t serve as the setting for a celebration. Festivities are a permanent feature of the Aquitaine lifestyle based on wine, gastronomy, the sea, dance, music and traditional games (Basque pelota, course Landaise, félibrée….).
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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URBAN TOURISM Beautiful towns to be experiencet all year round round Bordeaux, Bayonne, Pau, Périgueux. The Aquitaine towns are perfect all year round for sightseeing because they all combine architecture, elegance, cultural life, events, renowned restaurants and pleasant bistros, and a thousand and one classical, trendy or offbeat shopping ideas. They are the perfect choice for a week-and or a short break and an ideal starting point for excursion into the vineyards that you can reach within one hour drive. Each town has its own personality:
Bordeaux (Gironde)
town of art and history
A regional capital that combines respect for the past (18th-century architecture) with confidence in the future (major works in the city centre and along the quaysides to bring the city into the 21st century) whilst remaining a city where life is good (shopping, museums, culture, events). An ideal starting point for excursions into the nearby wine regions. The city of Bordeaux was listed as World Heritage by UNESCO on 28 June 2007. www.bordeaux-tourisme.com
Bayonne (Pyrénées Atlantiques / Basque)
town of art
THE town in the Basque Country with its citadel, its old town famous for its arches and the chocolate makers in their shade, the gothic Sainte Marie Cathedral, the saga of the Jewish families who fled from Spain and Portugal and settled here…The Fêtes de Bayonne last a week in early August and are a great festive occasion for all Basque people and their friends. The beaches of Anglet (the most beautiful on the Basque coast) adjoin the town, and Biarritz is 8 km away. www.bayonne-tourisme.com
Périgueux (Dordogne)
town of art and history
Périgueux has Aquitaine’s finest Gallo-Roman remains. Around the archaeological digs of the Villa Vésone, the architect Jean Nouvel has created an outstanding museum. The Gallo-Roman villa coexists harmoniously with the Renaissance town (with townhouses and small squares in which people meet). The Mimos festival in early August is an added attraction (with the universal language of mime), as is the New Orleans Music Festival (FNOP) in homage to a local inhabitant who created the French quarter in New Orleans (USA). www.tourisme-perigueux.com
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
Pau (Pyrénées Atlantiques/Béarn) The Boulevard des Pyrénées is one of the favourite spots among locals: facing due south, they settle on the terraces of the cafés in the shade of the palm trees as soon as the sun comes out and admire the Pyrenean peaks as they think, depending on the season, about downhill skiing (in winter), about walks in the mountains and about excursions in the nearby Jurançon wine area (all year round). The castle of Henri IV, the Maison Bernadotte and the Fine Arts Museum are all essential sites to visit. The Basque coast is 1 ½ hours away by motorway, and Lourdes a one-hour drive away. www.tourismepau.com To know more about these cities and what you can do while staying there: Ask for the Brochure (creation 2008 – French-English) City week-end breaks in town in Aquitaine. Have a look at our web site :
www.week-end-aquitaine.fr
A friend’s advice
From Spring to Autumn,
do not forget to enjoy these two more towns which earned the label “town of art and history”
Sarlat ( Dordogne)
town of art and history
Oloron-Sainte-Marie (Pyrénées Atlantiques / Béarn)
town of art and history
Renowned for its white stone architecture and “lauze” slate roofs, its outdoor markets (Wednesday and Saturday) and its beautiful environment (châteaux in the Dordogne Valley, Vézère Valley listed in 1979 as UNESCO World Heritage for its major prehistoric sites), Sarlat is the reference town in Black Perigord and is a must for anyone who likes the finer things in life. www.ot-sarlat-perigord.fr
Oloron-Sainte-Marie stands at the crossroads of 3 Pyrenean valleys : Ossau, Aspe and Barétous. Stage on the Compostella trail (Arles trail or Tolosana and Pyrenean Piémont trail), the town has been built around 3 historical districts dating from the Middle Ages. The Sainte Marie district has been developed around Sainte Marie Cathedral, its main gate is listed on the Unesco World Heritage as an important element on the Santiago de Compostella trails. The medieval Sainte Croix district has been built on a hill and its church has a Spanish influence in its architecture (Aragon). Wonderful mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries are to be found in the Notre-Dame district and in the Marcadet. Oloron is also worth a visit for its art workshops and its chocolate factory (Lindt). Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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www.tourisme-oloron.com
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
SEASIDE TOURISM AQUITAINE COAST NOT TO BE MISSED ! The Dune du Pilat The highest dune in Europe, standing 104 metres above the Bay of Arcachon and offering a fantastic view of the ocean on one side and the forest on the other.
The Aquitaine coastline 270 kilometres of beautiful sandy beaches, the famous triptych of the ocean, the lakes and the forest, and the best waves in Europe for surfers.
The Médoc coast: untamed coast (but supervised beaches), surfing spots, cycling and horse-riding tracks, and the Médoc vineyards nearby. The Bay of Arcachon: an “interior sea” – a whole world in itself alternating oysterfishing ports and chic resorts such as Cap-Ferret and Arcachon. Cycling tracks, ornithological park. The kingdom of the Arcachon oyster. The Côte d’Argent (or Landes coast) stretches from Arcachon to Hossegor: wilder to the north, more “sophisticated” to the south. Surfing spots, cycling and horse-riding tracks. On the edge of the huge Landes de Gascogne Forest. The Basque Coast: rocky coast with small fishing and yachting ports alternating
with the sheltered beaches of fashionable seaside resorts (Biarritz, Saint-Jean de Luz, Hendaye…). Surfing spots. From the Pointe de Grave (the tip of the Médoc vineyards) to the Bidassoa (the river that separates Aquitaine from Spain), 270 kilometres of unspoilt coastline. No towering concrete or endless blocks of houses packed in tightly. From Soulac to Biarritz, the coast is just one long sandy beach separated from the forests of the Landes de Gascogne by a line of dunes and broken only by the mouth of the Bay of Arcachon. On the coast, you can choose between basking in the sun or diving into the refreshing Atlantic waves, between resorts where the emphasis is on sports and fun (on the Médoc and Landes coasts) or those offering all the pleasures of shopping and nightlife (on the Bay of Arcachon and the Basque Coast), or perhaps you would prefer to be pampered and revitalised in a spa or thalassotherapy centre (Bay of Arcachon and Basque Coast).
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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HISTORIC SEASIDE RESORTS THAT THRIVE ALL YEAR LONG:
Arcachon (Gironde) There are not only oysters here! The Winter Town, built in the 19th century, is a delight for lovers of architecture and the Belle Epoque. It was thanks to the arrival of the railway and the fashion for bathing in the sea that the small fishing village became a renowned resort for artists and high society in the 19th century. An hour’s drive from Bordeaux, Arcachon remains an ideal place to whiz off to for an evening, a weekend or a holiday. www.arcachon.com
Biarritz (Pyrénées Atlantiques / Côte Basque) “The King of Beaches and the Beach of Kings”, launched by Empress Eugenie who brought the whole of the European aristocracy to this little fishing village in the 19th century. Habits have not changed. The imperial palace has been transformed into a luxury hotel (Hôtel du Palais) but the town also offers the whole spectrum of accommodation and, as well as boasting the beach and surfing, has become an art-lover’s paradise with its festivals (dance, music, cinema), and the major exhibitions that take place all year round. www.biarritz.fr
Saint Jean de Luz (Pyrénées Atlantiques / Côte Basque) We know that it was in Saint Jean Baptiste Church that the young Louis XIV married the Spanish Infanta, Maria-Theresa of Hapsburg. Facing the sea (France’s leading tuna fishing port), this former corsairs’ town is utterly charming with its ancient stone mansions and the simpler dwellings with their whitewashed walls and shutters painted blood-red or green. The picturesque harbour is set in the heart of the town and the beach, perfectly protected from the ocean currents, is a delight for families with small children. And yet just nearby is Pointe Sainte Barbe, the renowned surfing spot with its mythical waves. www.saint-jean-de-luz.com
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
AQUITAINE A WINE DISCOVERY TRAIL THROUGH VINEYARDS AND VILLAGES
There are five of them in all, like five fingers on a hand… five départements making Aquitaine the dream region for all wine-lovers, whether you are a beginner or a connoisseur! Here you will find the world’s most prestigious wines (Château MoutonRothschild, Château Yquem, Château Petrus, Château Ausone, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion…) and the most famous appellations (Sauternes, Graves, SaintEmilion, Médoc…), but also more secret terroirs whose reputation is growing year by year (Duras, Bergerac, Jurançon, Madiran, Irouléguy…).
In Aquitaine, the vine has been king since time immemorial. Châteaux have been built, hillsides and forests cleared, a thousand intricate techniques invented, all in the name of wine. The sun and the lavish gifts of the land have done the rest. Those who love tasting good wine, meeting interesting people and admiring beautiful landscapes will be in heaven here. Everyone in Aquitaine is aware of the fact that our wines are the best ambassadors for our region. Vines and wines: what better starting-point to discover the many riches of Aquitaine?
Public brochures available: Aquitaine, All about Wine The vineyards of Aquitaine Order them from the Comité Régional de Tourisme d’Aquitaine or download them from our website +33 (0)5 56 01 70 00 Email : tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr
www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr www.oenoland-aquitaine.com Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
A little history Vines first appeared in Aquitaine in the Gallo-Roman era. Perfectly suited to the mild Atlantic climate, the Biturica vine variety (the ancestor of our present-day Cabernets) took root in the 1st century AD at the gateway to Burdigala, the town that was to become Bordeaux, but also in Saint-Emilion, Blaye, and on the hillsides of the Dordogne. The sandy, stony soil was ideal for vine-growing, the mild Atlantic influence contributed certain characteristics such as aromatic finesse, and the presence of many rivers (Garonne, Dordogne, Isle, Gave de Pau) made trading and export much easier. This wine civilisation, wiped out by the Barbarian invasions in the 5th century, came back to life in the 7th century thanks to the pioneering monks who grouped populations together, first in communities and then along the roads leading to Compostela, all of which went through Aquitaine. Over the centuries along these routes, churches and abbeys were built to provide pilgrims with food and shelter. Around these holy places a great many vines were grown, planted by the monks to make communion wine. This is the case, for example, of the Irouléguy wine area in the Basque Country: in the Middle Ages, the Abbey of Roncevaux served up 50,000 meals a year to pilgrims! In the 12th century – the era of Eleanor of Aquitaine and her husband, Henri Plantagenet – the wine area was extended around Bordeaux (the Graves region) to meet the demands of the English market, where claret was particularly popular (a rosé wine made by mixing grape varieties, with a short maceration period). The ports of Bordeaux, Libourne, Bergerac, and Bayonne all enjoyed spectacular growth. In the 16th century the wine region changed somewhat under the influence of Dutch traders, who developed the production of sweet white wines to be exported to Flanders. It was not until the 18th century that the Médoc – now one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious areas – “converted” to vine-growing. The various catastrophes of the early and mid 20th century (mildew, phylloxera, frosts in 1956) almost destroyed a large part of the vineyards. Certain estates, which are now among the jewels in the crown of Aquitaine, were sold: vines were no longer profitable. Courageously and stubbornly, the Aquitaine winegrowers bent to their task, always aiming to achieve better quality. The way vines were cultivated changed, the wine estates were remodelled, and the region saw the creation of the A.O.C.s (appellations d’origine contrôlée) and of the I.N.A.O (Institut National des Appellations d’Origine des Vins et Spiritueux). As for grape varieties, in Aquitaine the wines of Bordeaux have always led the way. Bordeaux wines are blended. The reds are mainly made up of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The whites are made with Semillon and Sauvignon. The wines of the la Dordogne, the Lot et Garonne and the Basque Country – which also benefits from the Atlantic influence – have adopted these grape varieties too. But in the Béarn region, it is the Tannat variety which gives the red wines their deep colour and their tannic flavour, while the wines of Jurançon (whites) are made using Gros-Manseng and Petit-Manseng. Pacherenc-du-Vic-Bilh is an exclusive sweet wine with aromas of peach, produced in very small quantities. Its name comes from the grape variety used (Pacherenc-du-Vic-Bilh).
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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In Aquitaine, wine is an art de vivre to be shared. Purists like to take lessons or even training courses in tasting techniques. Art-lovers choose the museums of vine and wine. Sightseers go on visits of vineyards organised by the Tourist Offices or Maisons du Vin. Non-conformists love to tour the vineyards on foot, by bike, on horseback or on a scooter, stopping off at the châteaux along their way… or take to the air in a hot-air balloon. Epicureans splash out on a spa holiday in the midst of vineyards.
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
EVENTS AND MANIFESTATIONS 2010 21st February
Sarlat Fest'oie
The town of Sarlat and the tourist office are organising a goose fair in the medieval town. From 10 am, a great many free events are on show for adults and kids: painting goose eggs, calligraphy with goose feathers, feather preparation… but also music performances, an art competition on the theme of geese etc… Not forgetting a gargantuan meal served at noon with no fewer than 15 goose-based dishes (€ 40 including wine and coffee.)
www.ot-sarlat-perigord.fr April 17th – May 2nd
Springtime in the Landes area
Real holidays with flavour of spring… on a specific theme, the water. During two weeks, the whole region invites you to discover its riches. A dynamic, varied schedule is on offer with sports activities (surfing, golf, bike rides, walks,…) and cultural activities (exhibitions, conferences, etc). A lot of various, special staying offers with very interesting prizes are proposed during this period.
www.printemps-des-landes.com / www.tourismelandes.com June 24 – 27
Bordeaux Fête le Vin (Wine Festival), tous les vins d’Aquitaine
Held every other year since 1998, the Bordeaux Wine Festival takes place on the last weekend of June. Lovers of wine and good food, those in search of a good time and those with a passion for culture are all invited to come and have a great time together here. Pass holders (please see web site) can taste a range of rosé, red, dry white and sweet white wine form the Aquitaine and Bordeaux region .There are 60 appellations only among the Bordeaux wines, 13 among the Bergerac wines, not to mention the others…..2010 Québec City is host of honor.
www.bordeaux-fete-le-vin.com 1st week of August
Mimos: International Festival of Mime in Périgueux
As is the case each year, the city is transformed into a huge adventure playground for mime artists and companies, offering festival goers moments of surprise, innovation and recreation. The festival also offers conferences, exhibitions, mime courses and other audiovisual projections…
www.mimos.fr
1st weekend of August
Bayonne Festival
5 days of non-stop celebrations that attract 100,000 joyful visitors each year: cow and bull runs, street bands, lively bodegas; special children's day and Grand Bull Fight
www.bayonne-tourisme.com - http://fetes.bayonne.fr
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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August
Festival ‘Fête du vin - Faites nuit blanche’ in Duras (Wine Festival)
Enjoy this festival combining wine tasting under the advice given by more than 150 local wine growers, music and cycling along the vineyards.
www.cotesdeduras.com
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
1st weekend of Sept.
The Medoc Marathon
Each year thousands of people, many of them in flamboyant fancy dress, gather in the town of Pauillac in the Médoc area of Bordeaux to run a course that winds through some of the world's greatest vineyards. www.marathondumedoc.com
2nd weekend of Sept.
Festival cyclo-musical "Ouvre la voix” (cycling and music)
On the Roger Lapébie cycling track (green route in the Entre-deux-Mers) which links Sauveterre de Guyenne to Latresne over 55 kilometres, "Ouvre La Voix" proposes an escapade in the heart of the region where bike rides, music, discovery of the rich local heritage and tasting sessions are all on the menu.
www.rockschool-barbey.com / http://tourisme.entredeuxmers.com/
End of Sept. – beginning of Oct.
Quiksilver Pro in Hossegor and Seignosse
A world surfing championship even, only 11 places in the world have the chance to be on the shortlist of this professional Surf contest.
www.hossegor.fr / www.quiksilver.com
last weekend of October
Espelette Chilli Fair
The Chilli Fair was created in 1967 by the Espelette Brotherhood. The local farmers show and sell their products in the village streets. On the Sunday morning there is a special church service and the years harvest is blessed. Then at the local castle the personality of the year is enthroned and, after eating a pinch of chilli, pronounces his will to defend the famous Espelette Chilli till the end of time.
www.pimentdespelette.com / www.espelette.fr
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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THE COLLECTION A collection of themed brochures, in a lightweight, practical format (folded, measuring 10 x 21 cm), with a multitude of great ideas (holidays, routes/itineraries, excursions). They are designed to slip into a bag or pocket easily so they can be transported everywhere. Free of charge. Downloadable from our website: www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr Or available to order from: Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board : +33 (0)5 56 01 70 00 E-mail: tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr
In the Aquitaine countryside
General brochure (free) The latest addition to the collection. On the front, a map of Aquitaine showing ten rural areas. A list of the most beautiful villages in France and ideas for turnkey holidays are also featured. On the reverse, ideas for excursions and activities, places to discover and regional specialities: recommendations for traditional gastronomy, art, local produce and Bienvenue à la Ferme contacts. 2009 design. Available in French and English.
Aquitaine for families
General brochure (free)
A practical format (10 x 21 cm) for this leaflet aimed at families with young children (under 12 years old). On the front, a map of Aquitaine showing 7 areas to discover. Briefly, the brochure reveals the family attractions of each type of area (sea, mountains, countryside and city). A short summary of "Kid" and "Family Plus" resorts and turnkey holiday ideas are outlined. On the reverse, ideas for excursions, activities, and courses for children. A list of useful contacts for organising a family holiday is also displayed. 2009 design. Available in French, English and Dutch.
Weekend breaks in the city
General brochure (free)
Bordeaux, Bayonne, Pau, and Périgueux: these Aquitaine cities lend themselves to urban tourism throughout the year. Combining architecture, heritage, style, cultural life, entertainment, prestigious restaurants, lively bistros and thousands of classic, high-fashion and independent shops, these cities are perfect destinations for a short
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
break. Furthermore, they are all located just one hour (or less) by car from a famous wine region. The brochure provides ideas for package deals and excursions with selected favourites and recommendations. 2008 design. Available in French, English and Spanish.
Wellness in Aquitaine
General brochure (free)
A brochure that can easily be picked up and slipped into a bag. On the front, a map of Aquitaine showing all the thalassotherapy centres in the region, as well as spa establishments in cities, by the coast, in the countryside, in wine regions, and spa resorts. Ideas for turnkey holidays and practical information on wellness and fitness centres in Aquitaine are also provided. 2008 design. Available in French and English.
Cycling in Aquitaine
General brochure (free)
A document that can easily be picked up and slipped into a bag. On the front, a map of Aquitaine with suggested routes outlined. On the reverse, additional information including recent news (the Périgord Noir multi-use trail, 35 km from Sarlat to Souillac following a former railway line) and the complete route for touring the Bay of Arcachon. You will also find holiday ideas, useful recommendations and a list of tourist agencies in Aquitaine specialising in cycling holidays. 2008 design. Available in French, English, German, Spanish and Dutch.
Golfing in Aquitaine
General brochure (free)
Aquitaine boasts some fifty golf courses including twenty 18+ hole courses accessible to club members or golf players passing through. On the front of the document, a map of Aquitaine identifying golf courses and ideas for holidays. Golf courses feature on the coast, in the wine regions, in cities, in the countryside and even at the foot of the Pyrenees. On the reverse, contact details for all golf clubs and specialist travel agencies, information on golf passes, and a list of the main tournaments which take place in the region. 2008 design. Available in French and English.
Aquatic delights in Aquitaine
General brochure (free)
This document (10 x 21 cm) offers original ideas for water-based excursions and activities (Aquitaine…an aquatic land). The ocean is set aside to focus on the diversity of natural heritage in this area: large coastal lakes, the Gironde estuary, the Garonne, Lot and
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Baïse Rivers, the Garonne canal and mountain streams. A list of boat trips, practical information, and a selection of useful contacts and internet addresses are all featured. Water tourism takes pride of place, with a presentation of Aquitaine’s waterways available for holidays aboard a navigable boat. Boat hire companies, basic information and recommended contacts for planning a trip are also given. 2008 design. Available in French, English, German and Spanish.
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
PICTURE LIBRARY
Journalists and travel agents, Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board (CRTA) has recently uploaded an online picture library, which is free to access. If you would like to take advantage of royalty-free photos, you can register on our website and create an account. In order to do this, please follow the procedure outlined in full on the website (available in French and English):
http://photodoc.tourisme-aquitaine.fr Low-definition photos: Once an account has been opened, visitors to the site can add photos to their baskets. Please note: only 20 photos allowed per basket. No more than 3 photos per basket subscribed to the same photographer, except for CRTA photos subscribed to Jean-Jacques Brochard. You can also access your basket via e-mail. High-definition photos: Once an account has been opened, you can choose photos by following the procedure. You can then submit an application by specifying your choice and outlining how the photos will be used. The application will be automatically transferred to the administrator of the CRTA picture library, who is the sole moderator with the authority to grant or deny access to the royaltyfree high-definition photos. Once authorisation has been granted, the photos are sent via e-mail or placed in an FTP account. Dispatch time: 24 to 48 hours.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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AQUITAINE IDENTITY CARD www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr Situated in the South of France, Aquitaine is a region recognised for its quality of life. In Aquitaine, nature is: bountiful: fresh air and extensive natural spaces developed in accordance with environmentally friendly practices. The inhabitants of Aquitaine benefit from this luxury, represented by 270 uninterrupted kilometres of fine sandy beaches alongside the Atlantic, 18,121 hectares of lakes and other bodies of water, 1,800,000 hectares of forests and the largest estuary in Europe: the Gironde. flavoursome: in Spring, you can enjoy asparagus from Blaye and the Landes, strawberries from Périgord and tomatoes from Marmande, followed by melon from Nérac, plums from Ente, regional mushroom specialities and walnuts… welcoming: providing families with holidays where young and old can enjoy activities together, providing couples of all ages with multiple opportunities for romantic getaways, providing groups of friends with a host of attractions such as ski, snow and surf sports, shopping and wine/gastronomy tourism, or simply the chance to relax and enjoy the little pleasures in life.
Climate Aquitaine is a pleasant place to live whatever the season: mild is the word that best sums up the climate. The average annual temperature is 13°C. From mid July to mid August, temperatures may exceed 30°C but even the hottest times are never unbearable thanks to the refreshing westerly winds coming in off the ocean. The warm season starts in May and continues until October: over this period the sunshine and the temperature – of both the air and the water – lend themselves perfectly to swimming, white water sports and long walks. Autumn and spring are ideal for discovering the region’s cultural, gastronomic and winemaking riches, while winter attracts downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts to the Pyrenean resorts. As for urban tourism, this can be enjoyed all year round as it offers the wonders of the local architecture, the delights of shopping, the fascination of museums and exhibitions, as well as dance evenings, theatre, music and cinema, not to mention the pleasures of fine dining in a highly renowned restaurant or enjoying simple, understated cuisine in a lively bistro.
Area With a surface area occupying 7.6% of national territory (41,308 km2) (*), Aquitaine is the third largest region in France. (*) metropolitan France: 551,255 km2
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
With a geographical area as large as Belgium or the Netherlands, Aquitaine is one of the largest regions in Europe.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Aquitaine is composed of 5 départements: Dordogne -
Gironde Landes Lot-et-Garonne Pyrénées-Atlantiques
9,184 km2
10,726 km2 9,237 km2 5,380 km2 7,829 km2
Dordogne, Gironde and Landes are the three largest départements in France.
Population Aquitaine counted 3.17 million inhabitants on 1st January 2008 (the latest figures recorded). Strong demographic growth in Aquitaine (1% average annual increase between 1999 and 2008) is largely sustained by migrations from other metropolitan regions. More than half of these new inhabitants of Aquitaine are aged between 30 and 59 and most of them have children. Since 1990, the population of the region has increased at a higher rate than the populations of France and Europe. With a density of 77 inhabitants per km2, Aquitaine offers considerable territorial space. The population varies from less than 5 inhabitants per km2 in certain sparsely populated areas, to more than 4,700 inhabitants per km2 in the most built-up areas. More than one in three inhabitants of Aquitaine resides in one of the three urban areas which count more than 150,000 inhabitants each: Bordeaux, (over 800,000 hectares) Pau (approximately 200,000 hectares) and Bayonne (190,000 hectares). Bordeaux (city centre), the regional capital, has more than 240,000 inhabitants. Bordeaux Urban Area (Bordeaux and the 26 communes of its urban area) has more than 800,000 inhabitants.
Tourism A key factor in economic development, tourism generates 67,000 direct and indirect jobs, representing 6% of salaried employment in Aquitaine. In 2007, income from tourism rose to 4.2 billion Euros.
Innovation and research at the service of excellence It is not widely promoted that Aquitaine serves as more than just a major tourist destination. Yet it is also a region anchored in the 21st century, a land of innovation and research. Four state-registered competitiveness clusters operate in the region, providing more than 150,000 jobs. The region has also developed a fifth centre devoted to the science of wine and winemaking. Aerospace Valley: created in collaboration with the Midi-Pyrénées region. The two regions provide the leading aerospace cluster in Europe. -
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Route des Lasers: the aim of the hub is to optimise the economic and scientific benefits of new laser technologies. It is supported by the dynamics developed by the construction of the Megajoule laser (LMJ) at Le Barp, in Gironde.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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Industries et Pin maritime du futur: the cluster aims to consolidate the wood industry, notably through developing the use of wood in construction. Institut des sciences de la vigne et du vin.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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HOW TO GET TO AQUITAINE www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr
Located in South West France at the heart of Atlantic Europe, Aquitaine upholds its natural position as the link between Southern and Northern Europe and between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. With four international airports, the TGV Atlantique high-speed train link, the network of regional express trains (TER), the ports of Bordeaux and Bayonne and a network of motorways, the region is rapidly connected with the entire national territory, major European cities and the rest of the world.
By road A major road network converges in Bordeaux, Aquitaine’s capital city. Motorways: - A10: Paris- Bordeaux – Bayonne – Madrid - A10 – A83: Nantes - Bordeaux - A62 (Autoroute des Deux Mers): (Nice) -Toulouse – Agen – Langon - Bordeaux - A63: Toulouse- Lourdes- Pau - Bayonne- Biarritz - A65: Pau – Langon (Bordeaux) – Scheduled to open by the end of 2010, the A65 motorway will facilitate access to the Pyrenees and Spain. - A89: Lyon – Périgueux – Bordeaux The A89 Bordeaux - Lyon motorway (opened in 2007) links Aquitaine to the Rhin-Rhône road, facilitating access to North Italy, Switzerland, Austria and further beyond, towards Central Europe.
Bordeaux (33)
1090 642 1635 896 684 1002 694 998 1265 1486 809 535 652 489 324 810 584 247
Arcachon (33)
1161 618 1710 967 755 1073 694 1068 1336 1541 880 605 707 544 395 865 655 302
Agen (47)
Bergerac (24)
Périgueux (24)
Bayonne (64)
65 131 145 200 184 129 65
97 141
130 145 215 184 199 163 197
Mont de Marsan (40) 1217 493 1767 1024 836 1130 616 1063 1422 1421 937 717 587 424 452 745 711 183 131 130
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Dax (40)
1240 511 1789 1046 925 1152 563 1152 1511 1510 959 806 676 513 474 834 734 275 145 145
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Pau (64)
1287 434 1836 1093 847 1199 545 1075 1433 1433 1006 729 598 435 521 756 781 197 200 215
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Bayonne (64)
1278 538 1828 1085 951 1191 513 1179 1537 1536 998 833 702 539 513 860 772 301 184 184 106
Périgueux (24)
Pau (64)
Dax (40)
Mont de Marsan (40)
Arcachon (33)
Bordeaux (33)
Toulouse
Paris
Nice
Nantes
Montpellier
Marseille
Lyon
Lille
Rome
Munich
Milan
Madrid
Londres
Genève
Bruxelles
Berlin
Barcelone
Amsterdam
Distance in kilometres between the main towns and cities of Aquitaine,
84 106 209 153 121 87
87
52 278 211 179 114 266 217 162
52 114
317 263 231
992 559 1541 798 563 904 827 876 1140 1386 711 413 582 411 345 740 486 243 129 199 209 278 266 317
48 139
Bergerac (24)
1045 523 1594 851 604 957 773 917 1192 1446 764 454 612 449 384 770 539 207
Agen (47)
1160 434 1709 966 771 1072 741 999 1358 1357 879 548 522 359 463 681 654 118 141 197 121 179 162 231 139
97 163 153 211 217 263
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91 91
France and Europe.
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
By train A complete rail service enhanced by the TGV Atlantique line and the regional TER trains, places Aquitaine at the crossroads of the major channels of communication. Bordeaux Saint-Jean station receives between 220 and 260 trains each day, including 25 TGV trains on the Paris – Bordeaux return route. Bordeaux is just 3 hours from Paris, 4 hours from Nantes, 5 hours from Lille, 6 hours from Brussels and 2 hours from Toulouse. Certain TGV trains travel as far as Paris Roissy – Charles de Gaulle airport. Several TGV Atlantique trains also serve Libourne, Arcachon, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Hendaye and Pau, as well as Bordeaux. Information, prices, reservations: www.voyages-sncf.com If calling from France: : +33 (0)36 35 If calling from abroad: : +33(0)8 92 36 35 35 Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station. City centre connections (15 minute journey). Tramway line C. Buses: 2 – 9 – 16 – 17.
By air Aquitaine’s airports are served daily by several regional, national and international airlines, putting Paris and major cities in France at less than one hour away and other major European cities at less than 3 hours by air. Several low-cost direct flights make Aquitaine the ideal destination for weekends and short breaks. Further information available at: www.bordeaux-aeroport.fr www.bergerac.aeroport.fr
www.biarritz.aeroport.fr www.pau.aeroport.fr
Bordeaux-Mérignac international airport is located 15 kilometres from the city centre. It receives more than 200 flights each week and is ranked as the 6th largest airport in France, with more than 3.5 million passengers. City centre connections: Shuttle bus: departures every 45 minutes, 7 days a week. Journey time: 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. (Route: Airport – Saint Jean SNCF station – Place de la Comédie near the tourist office) Taxis: Journey time: 30 minutes.
By boat The ports of Bordeaux and Bayonne enable cruise ships to dock in the heart of the city centre.
Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009
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AQUITAINE DEDICATED WEBSITES
GOLF www.golf-inaquitaine.co.uk
CITY BREAKS www.week-endaquitaine.com
WINE TOURISM www.oenolandaquitaine.com
SEASIDE RESORTS www.zelittoralattitude.fr
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Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board – Press Office – presse@tourisme-aquitaine.fr Press kit 2010 – Nov. 2009