Want a change of scenery without venturing too far from Bordeaux? Head to Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, about an hour from the Gironde capital. Nestled along the banks of the Dordogne, this small bastide offers a delightful getaway combining historic sites, a market, and walks along the river. And here’s some good news: it’s easily accessible from Bordeaux via the TER train departing from Saint-Jean Station. The perfect destination for a day trip.
A small medieval village perfect for exploring on foot
On the border between the Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne departments, Sainte-Foy-la-Grande holds a unique place in the Gironde landscape. The town covers just a few dozen hectares and is therefore very easy to explore on foot.
To start your visit, head to the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville. With its arcades, shops, and outdoor cafes, it transports you to another era. Here you’ll find the famous checkerboard layout typical of bastides, with intersecting streets that still largely define the town’s layout. As you stroll around, be sure to keep your eyes open. Half-timbered houses, carved doors, arcades, and medieval ruins blend with more recent buildings. Rue Victor-Hugo, in particular, offers a pleasant shopping stroll.
Among the must-see sights, don’t miss the Notre-Dame Church, whose imposing bell tower overlooks the bastide. Inside, beautiful stained-glass windows and several works of art make it well worth stepping inside.
The oldest bastide in the Southwest
Sainte-Foy-la-Grande also boasts a particularly rich history. Founded in 1255 by Alphonse de Poitiers, it is considered the oldest bastide in southwestern France.
Although they no longer exist today, ramparts and several fortified gates once protected the village. Yet Sainte-Foy-la-Grande has experienced several turbulent periods over the centuries. In particular, it came under English rule during the Hundred Years’ War before becoming an important Protestant stronghold during the Wars of Religion.
The Dordogne River also plays a major role in the town’s development, as river trade facilitates the transport of wines produced in the surrounding area. Even today, the winemaking tradition remains strong with the Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux appellation.
What to do in Sainte-Foy-la-Grande?
The Saturday morning market
If there’s one event you shouldn’t miss, it’s the market in Sainte-Foy-la-Grande. Every Saturday morning, more than 150 vendors take over the streets of the town center.
Local farmers, artisans, and shopkeepers offer fruits and vegetables, cheeses, breads, wines, flowers, and specialties from the Southwest. In a lively atmosphere, it’s an excellent opportunity to discover the bastide in a different light.
A stroll along the Dordogne and through the vineyards
After the market, head toward the banks of the Dordogne to enjoy the walking paths and green spaces. The riverbanks are perfect for a leisurely stroll, whether on foot or by bike. Benches and playgrounds also make it a great place to enjoy with the whole family. Above all, the river offers a peaceful setting to take a break from the hustle and bustle.
And if you’d like to venture a bit further, the surrounding area also offers plenty of hiking trails. The paths wind through vineyards, woods, and farmland—enough to easily extend your getaway beyond the historic center.
Savor a good glass of local wine
It’s impossible to talk about Sainte-Foy-la-Grande without mentioning wine. To discover local wines, take a detour to the Maison des Vins. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the region’s wineries and the Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux appellation.
