Sporting Pursuits
An Advertorial Feature
The Spanish border sits to its south; the Atlantic Ocean lines its west. It’s only a low cost flight away this autumn/winter. Tempted? I’m writing about the Aquitaine region of south-west France. Like one of the area’s fine wines, the Aquitaine is a unique and delicate blend, well-balanced. We’re not talking grape varieties, however; I’m thinking of the range of activities and pursuits it has to offer, from beach resorts to Chateau stays, sporting holidays in the Pyrenees to swanky city breaks.
For those seeking a sports-based vacation, the Aquitaine region will, almost without a doubt, have something to suit. Surfing, body surfing and wind-surfing are all popular pursuits in the world-famous beach resorts dotted along the Atlantic Coast, such as Biarritz or Bayonne. The waves here are some of the best in Europe and fanatics travel across the world for a ride or to make an appearance at Biarritz’s summer Surf Festival. Surfing, however, isn’t restricted to the summer: the waves roll on in year round, but a wetsuit might be wise. Other activities may include sunbathing or cafè-dwelling – but that’s veering from the sports track.
The Pyrenees Mountains offer all the opportunities you may expect, and plenty more. To take in the exceptional beauty of the French Pyrenees – most of which is designated National Park – how about a long hike, perhaps traversing a stretch of the G10, a trail that runs from the Atlantic all the way to the Mediterranean, running near-parallel to the French-Spanish border? In the winter, get a little more ‘extreme’ and take to the slopes on skis, a snowboard or snowmobile if you prefer.
Then there’s wine. Unless you’ve somehow managed to avoid wine-lists, wine stores – wine altogether – you’re probably familiar with Bordeaux and its reputation. Located in the north of the Aquitaine region, it lies in one of the world’s finest locations for viticulture, playing a crucial role in wine’s history since Roman times. Take a trip down the D2, otherwise known as the ‘Route des Chateaux’, to absorb the area’s postcard scenery: bottle-green hills, striped with vines, wavering into the horizon. Sample some vintage wines, roam the vineyards, perhaps receive a guided tour. If it falls within your budget, a Chateau-stay (part of the ever-flourishing category of agri-tourism) will add a rustic authenticity to your trip and – trust me – will not disappoint.
What’s more the Aquitaine hosts a selection of stunning cities and towns to explore, meander and ponder. The architecture of communes such as Sarlat-la-Canèda, which boasts more listed buildings than anywhere else in Europe, and the sleek splendour of modern metropolises such as Bordeaux, are must-sees on your Aquitaine itinerary. There’s plenty more postcard scenery here, but of the urban rather than rural variety: the seventeenth-century Cathedrale Saint-Andre in Bordeaux, for instance, in its almost melancholic twilight majesty.
Several UK airports offer flights to those of the Aquitaine: Biarritz and Bordeaux. With flight times falling just shy of two hours, why not book yourself a well-deserved break? – just a couple of clicks…
Carl Stevens loves to travel at every given opportunity and to record his adventures and impressions. He is particularly interested in islands, culture and ecology, and interweaves his writing with these subjects. Carl writes this blog: www.voodoobunkbed.blogspot.com
