How about a fascinating getaway just an hour from Bordeaux? In this article, we’re obviously talking about Blaye! It’s an ideal destination for Bordeaux residents in search of authenticity and breathtaking panoramas! Dominated by its famous citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the town has plenty of surprises in store for you!
An exceptional fortress designed by Vauban
You can’t miss it! The Citadelle de Blaye sits proudly atop a 35-metre cliff overlooking the Gironde estuary. This military masterpiece was built in the 17th century to block access to Bordeaux. Together with Fort Pâté and Fort Médoc, it forms the famous “Verrou Vauban“, the only one of its kind in France! As you’ll see, the design is a clear testament to the genius of Vauban (who also worked wonders in Briançon and many other places).
Today, visitors can wander freely through the citadel’s cobbled streets, discover its ramparts, craft stores and green lawns where children love to play! The more curious can visit the underground passages leading to the port, or the Museum of History and Archaeology housed in a former military bakery. One thing’s for sure: you won’t leave without learning something!
An unusual visit for wonderful memories
Looking for something a little different? From the foot of the citadel, a little tourist train takes you on a guided tour to discover the history of the vineyards and heritage! A good option if you don’t feel like walking in this heat! Then, in the cool of the evening, you can stroll through the narrow streets of the citadel, and maybe even stop off at one of the restaurants with terraces (an exceptional view awaits you!).
From Blaye, you can also take in other unusual sights! You can take a cruise on the estuary to discover three islands: Patiras, with its lighthouse and panoramic restaurant; Margaux, a private island transformed into a wine garden; and Île Nouvelle, a bird sanctuary opposite the citadel! And if history is more your thing, you can discover the Pair-non-Pair cave, decorated with prehistoric engravings dating back 40,000 years. It’s one of the oldest decorated caves in Europe, and the only one open to the public in Gironde!
Did someone say wine?
In Blaye, the citadel is a place that takes us out of time, but as good Bordelais, we have a duty to tell you about wine! The vineyards of Blaye, older than those of the Médoc, cover more than 6,000 hectares! Three appellations share the land: “Blaye – Côtes de Bordeaux”, “Côtes de Blaye” and “Blaye” for the exceptional reds (yes, they’re our favorites too). You can taste them at the Maison des Vins or at one of the many family estates open to visitors, such as Château Bel Air La Royère or Monconseil-Gazin!
👉Secret Bordeaux tip: Coming from Bordeaux, we strongly recommend taking the Corniche Fleurie road! Lined with troglodyte houses and fishermen’s huts, this road looks like a small tropical paradise!