Bordeaux & Southwest France

Bordeaux & Southwest France spans a vast area from the vineyards of the Gironde to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees border. For families, this region offers an exceptional variety of landscapes, shifting from the endless sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast to the lush, river-threaded valleys of the Dordogne. The climate is generally mild and sunny, with the coast receiving fresh ocean breezes that temper the summer heat, making it comfortable for active holidays.

The coastal stretch is dominated by the spectacular Dune du Pilat. Rising over 100 meters high, it serves as a giant natural playground where children can roll down the sandy slopes while parents take in panoramic views of the Arcachon Bay. Further south, the seaside towns of Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz offer a vibrant Basque culture with distinctive red-timbered houses and family-friendly surf schools sheltered from the roughest waves. Inland, the city of Bordeaux has transformed into a pedestrian-friendly hub; the Miroir d'eau (Water Mirror) opposite the Place de la Bourse is a hit with toddlers who love splashing in the shallow mist on warm days.

Head east into the Dordogne (often called Périgord), and the scenery changes to limestone cliffs and dense forests. This area is a history book come to life. Families can canoe gently down the Dordogne River, passing beneath clifftop fortresses like Château de Beynac. A major highlight is the Lascaux IV centre, where an immaculate replica of the famous prehistoric cave paintings allows kids to learn about Paleolithic art without damaging the originals. For a hands-on history lesson, the medieval town of Sarlat features winding streets and street performers that captivate younger visitors.

Practical advice for parents: A car is highly recommended for exploring the Dordogne and the countryside, as public transport can be sparse between smaller villages. The coastal areas are well-connected by train from Bordeaux. Dining here is a pleasure; the region is famous for duck confit and walnuts, but you will easily find simple grilled meats and fresh fruit at local markets. While the Atlantic currents can be strong, designated swimming zones are strictly monitored by lifeguards during summer—always swim between the flags.