We are visiting the Bordeaux wine regions in September. We have a rental car and are trying to determine what city to use as a home base and what contributors recommend for accommodations. The city of Bordeaux is large and takes time to navigate by car and get into the countryside. However it has many accommodations and restaurants in addition most if not all wine tours start from there. Other options are St. Emilion or Margaux which are both rather small but in the heart of the wine country. Recommendation of what city/villages and accommodations would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
If you want to stay for 5 days in the same place, I would say that Bordeaux itself is by far the best choice. While you don't really want to drive in Bordeaux more than you have to, you can pick a place to stay that is relatively easy to get in and out of, or park in a convenient garage. We've picked up and/or dropped off rental cars in Bordeaux a few times, and it's pretty easy to get into and out of the city from the garage where rental cars are kept.
Posted by
264 posts
For me, the joy of France is in the country, less so than in the cities and, although Bordeaux is beautiful, I'd encourage you consider staying in one of the smaller areas - maybe a chateau our at one of the vineyards (many offer lodging) - to really get a sense of the 'terroir'. By all means, spend time at the Musee de Vin - and then head for the vines. Lodging in the country is often less costly and, if you are lucky, dinner may be offered, table d'hote. Many opt the chateau offer winery tours or will make arrangements for you.
Some options to consider just to get you started-- Ch Hotel & Spa Grand Barrail, Ch Giscours in Labarde, Ch de Courtebotte in Saint-Jean-de-Blaignac, Ch. Rouselle in St Ciers de Canesse, or Château Real in Saint-Estèphe. The web has tons of choices - I hope you enjoy your trip!!
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
I think that Crooney's advice is good, but not for a 5-day stay. Maybe 3 days in Bordeaux and then 2 days in the surrounding countryside.
Posted by
San Juan Capistrano, California, USA
25 posts
We are going in April with two nights in Bordeaux at the best western premier hotel Bayonne, three nights in St Emillion at the chateaux grand barrail and then three nights in Medoc at the chateaux Cordeillan Bages. I know that the winery is under construction at Cordeillan Bages but hope that this is ok.