Time in Bordeaux next September

Is it fairly easy access to the Loire as we head that way?

The Loire is over 1000 km long, so it depends on what part of the Loire you are aiming for.

How are you defining "the Bordeaux region"? Many folks use Bordeaux as the gateway to the Dordogne. That would mean spending nights farther to the east, to facilitate visiting places like Sarlat le Canada. A week wouldn't be too long for the Dordogne; it has beautiful scenery, hill towns, canoeing on the river, castles and caves with prehistoric art. If your interest is more geographically limited, maybe you just want to see St-Emilion. It's extremely touristy (not at the very top of the town, though) but very picturesque and popular with the wine crowd.

Do you plan to rent a car, or will you be using public transportation?

I agree that going from Bordeaux into the Dordogne region would make sense. there are many small towns and villages (as well as castles and rivers) to see in the Dordogne. Just get a good guidebook of the region. Then, depending on how much time you have, you can drive north to the Loire (this isassuming you will have a car - it is very difficult to get around in the Dordogne without a car). Peter

I am looking at booking a stay in St Emillion. Would love something with a pretty view, breakfast and perhaps in or near the vineyards. If you have suggestions, can you please pass along?

Arcachon is also nearby and definitely worth a day or 2.