The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city to be experienced in the open air. Its elegant squares, riverside promenade along the Garonne and nearby vineyards make it a perfect destination for those who enjoy leisurely exploration. With a mild climate for much of the year, a stroll through the streets, a bike ride or a hike in the surrounding area is an ideal plan. If you feel like discovering Bordeaux in an active way and in contact with nature, here are some suggestions not to be missed.

Bordeaux is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France. Its wide cycle paths and mostly flat terrain make it the perfect place to explore on two wheels. From the historic centre to the modern districts such as Darwin Ecosystem, getting around by bike allows you to discover the city in an agile and sustainable way.

If you want to make sure you don't miss a corner, a guided bike tour is the best option. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll cycle around iconic sites such as the Place de la Bourse, the Chartrons district and the Stone Bridge, while learning about the city's history and culture.

Bordeaux is not only enjoyable on foot or by bike, but also from the water. A cruise on the Garonne is a different and relaxing way to admire the city. From the boat, you can admire the imposing architecture, such as the Place de la Bourse reflected in the water, while sipping a good local wine.

For an even more authentic experience, many cruises include a wine tasting and a canelé, the typical Bordeaux sweet. With its caramelised texture on the outside and soft on the inside, this little morsel is the perfect complement to an afternoon at sea.

Just 40 minutes from Bordeaux lies Saint-Émilion, a medieval village surrounded by vineyards with a charm that will charm anyone. A World Heritage Site, its cobbled streets and centuries-old wine cellars provide the perfect backdrop for a half-day excursion.

Here you can visit some of its famous wineries and learn about the production process of its prestigious wines. In addition, its impressive monolithic church, carved into the rock, is an architectural jewel worth discovering.

If you are a wine lover, don't miss the opportunity to take a tour of the châteaux and vineyards of the Bordeaux region. On this route you will discover some of the most prestigious wineries in the world, located in historic châteaux surrounded by spectacular landscapes.

During the visit, you will learn about the wine production process, stroll through the vineyards and, of course, enjoy a tasting of some of Bordeaux's finest wines. A must-do experience for any wine enthusiast.

If you are looking for a nature getaway, the Dune de Pilat is one of France's most impressive natural wonders. At over 100 metres high, it is the highest sand dune in Europe and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes forest.

Close to the dune is the Arcachon Bay, famous for its oysters and charming seaside villages. A perfect place to enjoy a day outdoors, combining hiking along the dune with lunch by the sea.

If you are looking for a different and fun way to explore Bordeaux, a Segway tour is a great option. With this electric vehicle, you can comfortably move around the historic centre while a guide tells you interesting facts about the city.

From the majestic Place de la Bourse to the trendy Bassins à Flot district, this tour will allow you to explore Bordeaux without tiring yourself out and enjoy a unique experience on wheels.

If you love history and nature, a trip to the Dordogne Valley is a perfect plan. This region, located east of Bordeaux, is dotted with medieval villages, impressive castles and landscapes that look like something out of a fairytale.

Here you can visit the incredible citadel of Beynac, sail on a traditional barge on the Dordogne river or explore the prehistoric caves of Lascaux. A journey back in time that combines culture, adventure and breathtaking scenery.

If you want to discover more than just Bordeaux, a trip to the French Basque Country will allow you to discover charming seaside villages. Places like Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Bayonne offer a unique blend of French and Basque culture, with spectacular beaches and irresistible gastronomy.

This private tour will allow you to explore the region at your own pace, with stops at the most emblematic spots and the chance to sample local delicacies such as the famous macarons of Bayonne or the tuna of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

Bordeaux is a city best enjoyed outdoors. Whether it's cycling through the streets, cruising along the Garonne or exploring the nearby vineyards, there's a plan for every traveller. Which will be at the top of your list?