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Looking for ideas on a trip to southwest France/northwest Spain over a two week period in May

Will be visiting a relative of my husbands turning 100, in Marseille in May 2014, and want to head to the Bordeaux region, then south to Santiago de Compostela and the Basque country. Have been to Carcassone twice, and Lourdes, but not to the coast of southwest France. Any ideas and suggestions for routes, things not to be missed, etc?

Posted by
6 posts

Collioure is an amazing town in southwest France. I spent 4 days there a few years ago. In my opinion, this is a must-see town for the coast of France. The ocean meets the Pyrenees Mountains and it's just stunning. The town is an easily walkable town with much to do and see....or just relax on the beach. It's away from the hustle and bustle of the Riviera and just beautiful. Highly recommended. I stayed at the Hotel Les Carangues. At the time, it was a very basic hotel (the room was pretty small), but the view couldn't be beat. Standing in my room with a balcony overlooking the ocean, I would have thought I was on a cruise ship...that's how close the water was. The hotel had several terraces with outdoor couches to lounge about, all of which overlooked the ocean; I spent many hours enjoying leisurely breakfasts and lunches and just staring at the view. I think the hotel has since had a renovation.

Posted by
10205 posts

I agree that Collioure is a very nice place to visit. I was there for the day, as I was staying just a little further up the coast. The beach is pebbly, but there are beautiful sandy beaches just a little north of there. The town was wonderful.

Posted by
3391 posts

I agree with the previous two posters about Coulliere - really spectacular! Go further east and also take a look at Agde and Pezenas. Agde is right on the coast and is lovely. Pezenas is slightly inland from there and is a classic village circulade. Hundreds of years old with beautiful, winding stone streets and amazing shopping. Lots of wineries in the area. You can also explore the Canal du Midi either by rental boat or bike. Beziers is another interesting town with a spectacular cathedral.

Posted by
4132 posts

Collioure makes a nice break but is pretty far from Judy's area of interest. Not worth such a huge detour, in my view.

How about San Sebastian and Bilbao?

Posted by
619 posts

Thanks to all of you for your suggestions. As we will have a car and two weeks for sure in southwest France and northwest Spain, we will make it a point to spend some time in Coulliere. Our itinerary is very flexible, but plan on (roughly) one week in the Santiago area of Spain and one week (or more) in that part of France. We can stay longer if we wish and if the budget holds up. Merci and Gracias!
Judy

Posted by
619 posts

Oh yes, I forgot to mention that Bilbao is one of the places we are interested in, as our son raved about it after his visit there. Guess I had better get out my Michelin map and plan a route!
Judy