Autumn 2023 H.E.S.S. collaboration meeting, Bordeaux

Tourism

For those of you planning to spend a few days in the region to do some sight seeing, several options of interest can be suggested:

Bordeaux:

Bordeaux is classified as the "City of Art and History". The city is home to 362 monuments historiques with some buildings dating back to roman times. Bordeaux has been inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List as "an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble". The main sites include: Place des Quinconces, Grand Théâtre (a large neoclassical theater built in the 18th century), Allées de Tourny, Cours de l'Intendance, the lively little streets of the Old Bordeaux, and the waterfront overlooking the Garonne River.

Arcachon:

Famous for its bay, direct trains from Bordeaux connect Arcachon in 45 minutes. From there, you will be able to discover the Ville d’Hiver and its 19th century villas. If you rent a car (since connections are not frequent), you may also want to take the opportunity to climb up the Dune du Pyla. Please note that the Office du Tourisme organize guided tours every week there.

Ocean:

Direct trains or buses connect Bordeaux to Soulac, Lacanau and Cap-Ferret, which are places known for their very nice and long golden sand beaches surrounded by pine forests. Going there by car takes approximately 45 minutes (Lacanau) to 1h30 (Soulac): ask us if you need more informations.

Vineyards: 

You have plenty of opportunities in this region. Towards the East, you will find Saint Emilion, a well known AOC surrounding the UNESCO Heritage village by the same name. Here, the most famous chateau are Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc. Nearby, in the Pomerol AOC, lies Château Petrus.
Towards the North, the Medoc region, where some of the famous Bordeaux wines are produced. The first growths Château Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Latour, Château Margaux and Chateau Mouton Rothschild are all located in the Medoc. If you are planning a tour to a chateau, keep the following in mind: (1) call ahead and make a reservation; (2) Chateau Latour generally only accepts serious collectors and professionals.
 

We wish you a nice stay in the region