News from Aquitaine - Summer 2015

summer 2015

IN Périgord [ ] Accommodation

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Bordeaux and the surrounding area

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In the Bordeaux vineyards

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In the Landes

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In Lot-et-Garonne

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Along the Basque coast

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In the Basque country interior

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for the small ball. You can also go canoeing on the Dordogne.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/D Prices: from €175 per night and €15 for breakfast.

Reservation Contact Château de Maraval Anne-Marie et Thierry SPONNE Lieu-dit Maraval 24250 CENAC-et-SAINT-JULIEN Tel. Anne-Marie’s mobile: +33(0)6 08 40 32 62 Tel. Thierry’s mobile: +33(0)6 06 94 37 61 www.chateaudemaraval.fr

Chic eco lodges and « Les Glycines » hotel and spa in the Vézère valley

© Fauret

In Périgord

Located in the commune of Cénac-et-SaintJulien, in the heart of Périgord, near Sarlat, the Château de Maraval combines architecture dating back several centuries with a contemporary interior and high-tech amenities.

The décor of the rooms, the themes of the four guest rooms as well as the garden are all reminiscent of certain periods in history in a warm and intimate ambiance.You can enjoy the on-site spa with jacuzzi, steam room and fitness room or relax by the pool, in the shade of the ancient trees in the garden.

There are numerous places of interest are to visit nearby, such as Sarlat-la-Canéda, Domme, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac, Castelnaud, the Lascaux caves, the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac etc.

There are also lots of activities only a few kilometres from the castle. Four golf courses with 18-holes or more and three with 9 holes mean players of all levels can enjoy their passion

© Raphael Melka Photographie

A charming guest house with a spa in a 15th century castle

Situated in the heart of Périgord Noir, in Eyzies-de-Tayac, this 4 star hotel with two restaurants, one of which is a gourmet restaurant, has a «Châteaux & Hôtels de Collection» label, enjoys the ideal setting for a break offering peace and quiet or for a cultural holiday spent discovering major heritage and prehistoric sites, some of which are listed as world heritage sites by Unesco (Lascaux Caves).

In a recent development the hotel garden now

houses three new rooms decorated in an ecochic style, each with a terrace on stilts and breathtaking views over the ancient cliffs in the village and the garden.

The hotel is also enhanced by a spa with a sauna, a steam room and a swimming pool with a counter-current. A range of treatments from « Nuxe » is available for hotel guests.

The lodges are ideally suited to accommodate families or small groups.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €260 Reservation Contact Hôtel-restaurants Les Glycines & Spa 24620 LES EYZIES-de-TAYAC-SIREUIL Tel.: +33(0)5 53 06 97 07 Fax.: +33(0)5 53 06 92 19 www.les-glycines-dordogne.com 1

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Situated by the side of the Dordogne, the Maison d’Armanse enjoys a privileged location.

This large manor house with a swimming pool, with 4 Clévacances keys, offers breaks in an exceptional setting in the heart of the Périgord Noir.

Three gites, which are virtually in the water, with a capacity of 4 to 10 people and three guest rooms in the main residence, all carefully and tastefully decorated are available throughout the year.

The owner is full of excellent advice for visiting the surrounding area.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/ES Prices: from €90 per night for 2 people and €400 per week per gite depending on the season Reservation Contact Agnès REYNAUD La Maison d’Armanse Tel.: +33 (0)6 09 73 03 79 www.armanse.com

© OTI Vallee Dordogne

© OTI Vallee Dordogne

« La Maison d’Armanse », a beautiful place to stay by the side of the Dordogne

© Airstream Vintage Vacations - Olivier de Gallois

Sleep in an authentic American caravan

Three iconic caravans from the fifties, including two imported from the United States, restored and furnished in period style are available for rental in Périgord, near the listed villages of Beynac (7km), Castelnaud (10km), La Roque-

Gageac (9 km), Domme (14 km), Sarlat (9 km), and the famous castles of the Dordogne valley, such as Beynac, Feyrac, les Milandes, Marqueyssac, Castelnaud, Lacoste.

the lounge, and garden furniture. For caravans without bathrooms a toilet block near the pool, comprising a large shower, sink and toilet is available for all the caravanners.

They are installed in the large garden of an old Périgord style house, which has a swimming pool (7x15 meters) and they are designed to accommodate 2 people each (a maximum of 6 people can therefore be accommodated at the same time on the property). The 3 caravans can be rented together or separately.

People who are nostalgic about this period or love the unusual, will appreciate the authenticity of these collectable objects and the quality of the setting which is only 10 minutes from the nearest towns.

They all have toilets and depending on the model, a private bathroom. They all have a fully equipped kitchen with stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher, a dining area, a living room, a separate bedroom or sleeping space (sofas) in

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €90 per overnight stay Reservation Contact Oliver de GALLOIS Tel.: +33 (0)6 72 20 07 11 www.airstream-vintage-vacations.fr

© La Maison Forte

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Situated 2 km from the medieval village of Issigeac, this fortified house dating from the 13th century has been fully restored. Its five spacious and elegant rooms offer stunning views over the garden with swimming pool and the surrounding countryside of vineyards and hills and can accommodate 12 people in total. Ideally positioned, it offers relaxing breaks, tasty food and very interesting visits to the surrounding heritage, such as the bastide towns of southern Périgord, like Monpazier, Beaumont du Périgord, or even Monflanquin, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France in Lot-et-Garonne, the neighbouring department.You can also visit the vineyards of Bergerac for wine tastings and to enjoy the local gastronomy.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/NL/D

© La Maison Forte

« La Maison Forte », a charming guest house in Montaut

Rate: from €125 per night for a room and €690 for the whole house.

Reservation Contact La Maison Forte Renoud SLINKMAN et Paul EBBING La Maison Forte, Le Bourg 24560 MONTAUT Tel.: +33 (0)5 53 23 49 10 www.lamaisonforte.net

SUMMER 2015

Ideas for breaks

Hiking along the Cro-Magnon trail in the Vézère valley Maps and guides are available from the Dordogne Departmental Tourism Committee and Tourist Offices.

© Jean-Jacques Brochard CRTA

Information Hiking guide, GPS traces, accommodation: http://rando.cg24.fr/

which are listed as world heritage sites by Unesco. The route makes its way along cliffs or hillsides with limestone outcrops, close to prehistoric archaeological sites, following the course of the famous river. Walking on this path promises to be a beautiful adventure in the footsteps of the « Lascaux Men ».

© Jean-Jacques Brochard CRTA

A new signposted path lets you discover the unique heritage of the Vézère valley (147 sources and 25 decorated caves), travelling 90 km between Terrasson-Lavilledieu et Limeuil, a small village at the confluence of the Dordogne. Walks for 5 to 7 days are available among the sites which line the river, 15 of

Places of interest

Lascaux III in Paris, this is happening now!

After an American tour visiting the Field Museum of Chicago, the Museum of Natural Science in Houston and the Science Museum of Montreal in 2014, the exhibition now returns to Europe. Life size and faithful replicas of the

original cave paintings can be seen in Paris at the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles from 13 May to 31 August 2015.

Using interactive scenography, the exhibition provides a wonderful trip back in time ... to the 15th millennium BC, pending the opening of the new International Centre of Parietal Art called Lascaux IV which is scheduled for 2016.

Information www.lascaux-expo.fr

© Jean-Jacques Brochard CRTA

Lascaux, the major archeological revelation of Humanity and marvel of prehistoric art, justly referred to as the « prehistoric Sistine Chapel », aroused such interest that the local authorities have organised an international travelling exhibition, called « Lascaux III ».

© Bernard Hautefort

The Chartreuse du Colombier Gardens

The Colombier Gardens surround a beautiful 17th century chartreuse in the charming village

of Paunat 35 km from Bergerac. Closed to the public for the last 25 years, these gardens are

open to the public again from 1 June to 19 October, Wednesday to Sunday, from 10.30am to 7pm. Private tours can also be arranged on appointment. Garden and architecture lovers are sure to appreciate the Florentine style ornamental kitchen garden, the ancient rose beds, the topiary and the peonies. In this pastoral and refined setting there is a tea room for gourmet breaks.

Rate : €5 Reservation Contact Bernard HAUTEFORT Tel.: +33 (0)6 84 60 74 75 Mob.: + 33 (0)6 84 28 91 42 3

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Bordeaux and the surrounding area [ ] Accommodation

The Best Western « Bayonne-Etche-Ona » Hotel in Bordeaux reopens economic centres, conference centres and universitaries are directly accessible either on foot or by tram (15 minutes for the furthest away).

© Hotel Bayonne Etche Ona Bordeaux

The hotel also offers themed short breaks based on wine tourism, heritage, gastronomy and the Arcachon basin, for groups and individuals.

The hotel consists of two beautiful 18th century mansions, about 40 metres apart, the « Bayonne » Hotel 4**** and the « EtcheOna » 3*** both with different atmospheres and décor. The « Bayonne » hotel welcomes its guests in an Art Deco setting, whereas the « Etche-Ona » hotel has more of a « returning

Prices: from €89, breakfast from €7 Reservation Contact

traveller » atmosphere, like a cabinet of curiosities. From the hotel, all the city’s riches can be discovered on foot.

Hôtel Best Western Bordeaux « Bayonne Etche-Ona » 4 rue Martignac 33000 BORDEAUX Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 48 00 88 www.bordeaux-hotel.com © Hotel Bayonne Etche Ona Bordeaux

Ideally located in the centre of Bordeaux, 100 meters from the Opera House, in the UNESCO listed sector, the hotel offers 61 completely renovated rooms.

Languages spoken: FR/EN

With regards tothings to do, it’s easy to enjoy the many shops, cafes, restaurants, museums, theatres and cinemas of Bordeaux ... but also events organised throughout the year near the hotel, such as the Wine Festival, the River Festival, the Christmas market, the food markets, and flea markets.

With regards to business tourism, the

Hotel de Tourny, a new chic and relaxed hotel Open for several decades, the hotel has just undergone a complete transformation.

Its 12 completely renovated rooms, are all luxuriously equipped. The discreet luxurious décor respects the authentic nature of this mansion house from the 18th century. The creation of a ground-floor patio is the other major element of the renovation work to the premises. © Hotel de Tourny

Languages spoken: FR/EN/ES

Close to the Allées de Tourny, the Opera House, the place des Quinconces, the quayside, the Public Garden and rue Sainte-Catherine, 4

this boutique hotel enjoys a privileged location in the city centre, where architecture, culture and gastronomy sit alongside the best shops.

Prices: from €110, breakfast from €10 Reservation Contact Hôtel de Tourny 16 rue Huguerie 33000 BORDEAUX Tel.: +33 (0)5 57 30 44 44 www.hoteldetourny.com

SUMMER 2015

Changes at the Grand Hotel 5***** de Bordeaux

© David & David GHSB CRTA

The Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa is located in the heart of Bordeaux on Place de La Comédie opposite the Opera House.

Originally built by Victor Louis in the 18th century, the Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa reopened at the end of 2007 after a complete restoration overseen by the famous interior decorator Jacques Garcia.

This spring the hotel created the Wine Concierge Service and Junior Suites specially for families with a children’s Concierge.

The services of the Wine Concierge Five Concierges including 4 with « Clefs d’Or » design tailor made programmes allowing guests to discover and access the universe of the great Bordeaux wines, in châteaux which are traditionally closed to the general public, including the greatest Grands Crus appellations such as Margaux, Saint-Julien, Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Saint-Emilion, PessacLéognan and Sauternes.

© A. Caboche CRTA

In addition to the tailor made programmes, the hotel offers Wine Journeys, including one suitable for families, which are exciting and original getaways designed by these true wine professionals, trips to vineyards by boat, meetings with the winegrowers in their wine making property, tasting Aquitaine caviar in a château, enchanting trips combining exclusivity, charm and elegance.

The new offers specially for families The Hotel & Spa also has new Family offers completely dedicated to keeping children amazed and well looked after. Equipped with 16 new Family Junior Suites (50 sq. m.), a new Children’s Concierge service specially for children and in association with the famous « Bonpoint » clothing brand, the Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa has signed up for a whole programme based on its mascot, Victor the bear!

The new Family Junior Suites comprise one room with a king bed, a separate living area with double sofa-bed, two adjacent bathrooms equipped with bathrobes and slippers for the whole family. The Family Junior Suites can be separated by a door to create two separate spaces or even a single and a spacious 50 sq. m. Suite. For the little ones: cots, baby changing tables and bottle warmers are available for guests.

The Children’s Concierge can suggest activities and tours to suit the children’s ages and the tastes.

And last but not least, the hotel has just announced the upcoming arrival of Gordon Ramsay, the talented Scottish chef to manage his

gourmet restaurant: « Le Pressoir d’Argent ».

Gordon RAMSAY has worked with prestigious chefs like Albert ROUX and Marco Pierre WHITE in London and then Guy SAVOY et Joël ROBUCHON in France.This is the second French establishment that Gordon is taking over, after the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, in Versailles, owned by Michel OHAYON. Already at the helm of twenty-five restaurants around the world and with seven stars in the Michelin guide, he is one of 4 chefs in England today to keep his three stars. He will bring his innovative vision of haute cuisine to Bordeaux in « Le Pressoir d’Argent » restaurant, which owes its name to the rare presence in the room (there are only five in the world) of a solid silver lobster press, designed by the « Christofle » house.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/ES/IT/G/RU/AR Reservation Contact Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & SPA 2-5 Place de la Comédie 33000 BORDEAUX Tel.: +33 (0)5 57 30 44 44 www.ghbordeaux.com

Hotel Pullmann at Bordeaux Lake is nearer to the city centre with the tram

© VFM Leonardo

Now it is directly connected to the city centre by tram line C. With its 166 rooms and its facilities, a secure car park with 120 spaces and space for coaches, and many services such as a swimming pool, a fitlounge, room service, concierge, restaurant, the Pullmann is the ideal place to accommodate groups and business tourists, but also all visitors to Bordeaux and the surrounding areas.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/D/ES/NL Prices: from €100

© VFM Leonardo

This is a contemporary style hotel, located in a quiet setting, near the Lake, very near to the Palais des Congress and casinos, the new Bordeaux stadium, but also of the vineyards of Médoc.

Reservation Contact Pullman Bordeaux Lac Avenue J.G. Domergue 33300 BORDEAUX Lac Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 69 66 94 Mob.: +33 (0)6 78 40 03 98 Fax: +33 (0)5 56 69 65 02 www.meetings-barriere.com 5

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In the Bordeaux vineyards [ ] Ideas for breaks

Weekend on the Bordeaux Wine route in Graves and Sauternes ®

Chateau Yquem Sauternes © Jean Jacques Brochard

of three themed routes « wine and heritage », «wine and the river» or « wine and local produce », downloadable at www.bordeauxgraves-sauternes.com.

The Bordeaux Wine Route in Graves and Sauternes ® which combines the red, white, sweet and dry Crus Classés with Graves appellations such as Pessac-Léognan and

Sauternes-Barsac is the cradle of Bordeaux wine growing. It is also the country of Pope Clement V and the famous authors Montesquieu and Mauriac. Discover it by yourself with the aid

The tourist office in Sauternes also offers short 2 day/1 night breaks, which include a tour of Maison Lillet, followed by a tasting at the Maison des Vins in Graves, a night in a guest room in a vineyard, a tasting tour of the property, dinner in a restaurant serving local produce as well as a wine tasting tour of a Graves appellation chateau followed by lunch in a restaurant serving local produce.

Rate: €130 per person / minimum 2 people Reservation Contact Office de Tourisme de Sauternes Graves Landes Girondines Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 63 68 00 www.sauternais-graves-langon.com

Pass séjour Bacchus Prestige à Saint-Emilion The tourist office in Saint-Emilion offers short 2 day/1 night breaks to discover the essence of famous wine villages with accommodation in a comfortable guest house.

Prices: from €230 for 2 people Reservation Contact Office de Tourisme de Saint-Emilion Tel.: +33 (0)5 57 55 28 28 www.saint-emilion-tourisme.com 6

© Laurent Reiz CRTA

The package includes an « Escapade Plus » lunch in a restaurant in Saint-Emilion, a guided tour of the medieval town listed as a world heritage site by Unesco, a visit to « The Panoramic Wine Route » (from May to October), a tasting tour of a Grand Cru Classé, and a tour of the underground quarries at Château Villemaurine, a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé, followed by a tasting.

SUMMER 2015

A new golf course in Saint-Emilion designed by Tom Doak

A family history This golf course grew out of the entire Mourgue d’Algue family’s passion for the sport. With 30 French championship titles and 40 appearances in the national team, Gaëtan, the father, has always worked to promote golf. Cecilia, the mother has one of the most beautiful lists of French «amateur» prizes to her name including 45 French championship titles. After winning the prestigious American National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championship in 1995, their daughter, Kristel, has developed on the professional European circuit. As for their son André, French champion and an engineer by training, he is quite naturally involved in the construction of the golf course with his father.

The first course in continental Europe for Tom Doak The designer, one of the best experts in the world, who is completing his first course in continental Europe here, which remains faithful to his minimalist style, has made the most of the site without altering it completely. The holes follow the natural movement of the land.

This exceptional course, in a valley lined with old oaks, surrounded by vineyards is situated 10 km from the village of Saint-Emilion, the famous medieval town and its famous vineyards, listed as a world heritage site by Unesco. It is located 50 minutes from Bordeaux airport and train station.

privileged quality of life.

The Saint-Emilionnais Golf Club has been selected as one of « the most anticipated new golf courses in the world » by « Golf Magazine USA ».

Reservation Contact Saint-Emilionnais Golf Club 33350 GARDEGAN-et-TOURTIRAC Tel.:+33 (0)6 77 26 53 10 www.segolfclub.com

A much anticipated golf course The Club house is in the old Goffre manor house and outbuildings from the 19th century, which have been refurbished and improved.

As part of the project there is a building programme, with the construction of a hamlet of eleven houses, which will be the future first or second homes for golfers in search of a

© Saint-Emilion Golf Club

A 5 star 18 hole golf course, designed by one of the best architects in the world, the American Tom Doak, known worldwide for his star courses (Pacific Dunes, Cape Kidnappers, Barnbougle Dunes), will unveil its greens and fairways on 1st May 2015 (opening of the 9 hole course, the 18 hole course will be available in September).

Places of interest

© Bordeaux river cruise

Blaye-Bourg Unesco wine cruise with Bordeaux River Cruise The « Bordeaux River Cruise » company, which specialises in wine tourism along the river, organises wine cruises with wine tastings of Bordeaux appellations: the right bank of the Gironde estuary with its white, red and rosé wines from Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde, the left bank of the Médoc with its famous Grands Crus Classés 1855, or even upstream on the Garonne with the Graves wines and the sweet wines of Sauternes.

on departure from Bordeaux, after a tasting matching dishes and wines, followed by a tour of the Vauban fortifications in Blaye, the boat follows the cliffs and makes a stop in Bourg, a village which overlooks the Dordogne. The return trip is by coach with a stop at the wine cellars of a wine estate.

Among the different cruises on offer, the BlayeBourg Unesco wine cruise offers a guided tour of the vineyards and the heritage of the right bank of the Gironde. On the way out,

Reservation Contact Bordeaux River Cruise Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 39 27 66 croisiere-bordeaux.com

Rate: €98 per person for the day including tours, tastings and meals on board.

« The Grape Harvest in the cinema », a premiere in Médoc The first edition of this international Film Festival in Médoc will take place in the heart of the famous vineyards on 15-19 July.

Chaired by the director Régis WARGNIER, the jury will have to decide on the best film from the selection of French and international films shown in preview. The public will vote for the best of the 4 films for young audiences from the selection.

The festival will take place at the Eden cinema,

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( an art house cinema with a young audience label). Several castles, Cordeillan-Bages, Beychevelle and Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, which are partners of the event will open their doors to guests and to the public for special evenings, open air projections and dinners.

Reservation Contact Tel.: +33 (0) 05 56 59 23 99 7

Festival International du Film en Médoc

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In the Landes [ ] Accommodation

Feel at home at « Lake Loft » in Hossegor

Situated two minutes from the ocean, in the peace and quiet, between the forest and lake, in a green unspoiled setting with a pool, Lake Loft is an intimate guest house with four cosy

To add to the charm of their guests’ stay, Christina and Olivier, a young Franco-German couple, offer a wide range of services: they can organise aperitifs, dinners, massages on site, provided by certified masseurs used to working with the professional surfers, Pilates courses with a particular teacher, stand-up paddle boarding, skateboarding or surfing courses, supervised by qualified teachers and bike rental

Reservation Contact Lake Loft 353 avenue des Ecureuils 40150 SOORTS-HOSSEGOR Tel.: +33 (0)5 58 73 93 36 www.lakeloft.fr

© Barbes

© Barbes

rooms, mixing the natural and the refined, with a private balcony or terrace.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €200

The « Palika Lodge » in harmony with nature in Castets of the Landes, houses a terrace where breakfast is served and a corridor leading to the bathrooms, 7 private spaces with a shower, washbasin and toilet. A selection of organic and ayurvedic toiletries are available for guests.

© Palika Lodge

A range of services

Tents inspired by travel in India

in an eco-friendly way, from natural and nonchemically treated materials. The tent canvas is made from cotton, the floors from nontreated larch. They are the fruit of 15 years of travelling and exploring India and the owners’ love for this fabulous country, that they decided to share by combining it with the wild beauty of the Landes. Comfortable and spacious (between 32 and 42 sq. m.), each lodge mixes contemporary design with unusual objects.

Five lodges inspired by the hunting tents of the Maharajas, have been erected there, built

Standing opposite the lake, the wash house, which is inspired by the traditional architecture

The « Palika Lodge » estate extends over a property of 20 hectares of pine forest, adorned with two private lakes and a clear water stream, 15 km from the Atlantic (15 minutes by car) and numerous surf schools.

The Moliets golf course is only 15 km away, Léon lake is 10 km away, where there is a sailing school and a few restaurants on the water’s edge.

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There are numerous tailor made services (on reservation): dinner (table d’hôtes) served inLa Bergerie, massages (€65/1hr and €80/1hr 30min), yoga classes, bike rental. Some decorative pieces on show in the lodges are available in the Palika Bazaar shop in Léon or directly from the Palika Lodge.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €145 per night for 2 people, breakfast included, minimum 2 nights Reservation Contact Palika Lodge Ardain - route de Léon 40260 CASTETS Tel.: + 33 (0)5 58 89 46 46 Mob. +33 (0)6 11 08 46 17 www.palikalodge.fr

SUMMER 2015

Places of interest

Major surfing events in the summer and early autumn

© Biscarrosse

Four competitions will take place on the beaches of Landes from the end of July until the middle of October.

The 65th Landes Grand Prix, classed among the top 4 French amateur competitions, which count towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking, will take place from 23 to 26 July in Hossegor.

The Kiwi Surf Festival, a stage in the World Tandem Surfing Championship, will be held

almost at the same time in Biscarrosse on 25 and 26 July.

9th Stage of the Quicksilver Pro France and 8th Stage of the Roxy Pro (the women’s world stage), the only French stage of the WCT (World Championship Tour for professional surfers), where the 30 best surfers in the world compete, will have Seignosse as its backdrop, from 9 to 17 October.

These three sporting events are plenty of reason to come and stay in Landes.

in Lot-et-Garonne [ ] Accommodation

© BASSIVIERE

Bassivière, a chic refuge on an old farm in Lot-et-Garonne

In the middle of the Lot-et-Garonne countryside, next to the bastide of SaintEtienne de Villeréal, Nils and Laura ABEN, the former owners of Les Ormes campsite, in the same village, have tastefully restored a 17th

century farm, to make 5 beautiful apartments.

Périgord and Lot-et-Garonne.

Displaying the nobility of ancient materials and the comfort of contemporary style, the apartments are spacious lofts, between 70 sq. m (the dovecote) and 140 sq. m., each designed to accommodate 4 people.Add to this a refined table d’hôte, an interior design shop and tailor made services such as craft workshops for the whole family as well as massages. The total capacity is 23 people.

Of course, visitors can stay put and enjoy the beauty of the area around the pool, an ideal place for chilling.

Bergerac airport is 30 km away, Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion are 1 hour away by road. Nearby, it’s possible to go hiking and horse riding Villeréal has a national stud - and go canoeing on the Dordogne which is very close, to visit the vineyards of Bergerac and the bastides of

Languages spoken: FR/EN/NL/D Prices: from €800 per week in the low season. 2 night and 4 night packages, groups and ceremonies are also on offer.

Reservation Contact Laura & Niels ABEN Lieu-dit Bassivière 47210 SAINT-ETIENNE de VILLEREAL Tel.: +33 (0)6 33 73 09 80 (Laura) Tel.: +33 (0)6 79 37 34 83 (Niels) www.bassiviere.com

Partially listed as a Historic Monument, the château des Vallons was partly built in the Middle Ages and the main building was built at the end of the 16th or the beginning of the 17th century. Today it is a prestigious guest house.

The first guest house in Lot-et-Garonne to be given 5 keys by Clévacances, the château des Vallons has two suites and three rooms. Floors, woodwork, furniture and antique paintings, four-poster beds and fireplaces, everything has been carefully refurbished.

On site, a beautiful swimming pool overlooking the surrounding countryside is an invitation to relax. It’s possible to take part in family cooking courses and courses to learn how to paint on

© Philippe GIRAUD - Château des Vallons

Stay at Château des Vallons in Verteuil d’Agenais

porcelain, wood and fabrics. Bikes are available as well as Russian billiards, a projection room, a shop and a Gaveau piano.

The hosts, Élisabeth SILVAGNI and Patrice DURANDET offer themed musical evenings, either in the small lounge where a beautiful grand piano takes pride of place, or in the small garden as well as a table d’hôte in a period dining room.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €80 per room, €170 per suite, €20 for a table d’hôte dinner without drinks.

Reservation Contact Château des Vallons 47260 VERTEUIL d’AGENAIS Tel.: +33 (0)5 53 64 79 12 Mob.: +33 (0)6 47 84 41 01 www.chateau-des-vallons.com 9

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Along the Basque coast [ ] Accommodation

This luxurious and charming hotel, opposite Saint-Jean-de-Luz bay, is preparing to re-open its doors on 1st June 2015, after months of renovation and refurbishment work. The SPA (Valmont beauty products) will resume its activities along with the thalassotherapy treatments.

The big change, which is part of this reopening, is the welcome for families with the opening, of a kids club for 4-12 year olds during the school holidays. The thalasso space also offers a menu of treatments for children.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €160 per room

© Hôtel Loreamar

© Hôtel Loreamar

© Hôtel Loreamar

The Grand Hôtel Loreamar 5***** Spa in Saint Jean-de-Luz

Reservation Contact Grand Hôtel Loreamar 43 boulevard Thiers 64500 SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 26 35 36 www.luzgrandhotel.fr

The EtcheBri guest house, ideal for golfers Whether you’re a golfer or not, this is the dream place to spend a few days holiday.

Languages spoken: FR/EN Prices: from €110 per night- €700 per week, breakfast included for 2 people and €190 per family suite (4 people)- €1,200 per week, €35 for meals at the table d’hôtes on reservation, €25 for children 8-17 ans years old without drinks.

© EtcheBri

EtcheBri is located in the heart of the Chiberta forest, in Anglet on the Basque Coast, two minutes from Madrague beach and Chiberta golf course. The beautiful villa of Brigitte WALLON VAN DE VELDE, whose family is well known in golfing circles, has five rooms including two family suites, simply and elegantly decorated overlooking the terrace, the swimming pool and the beautifully landscaped garden.

The hostess also offers short breaks such as beginners golf and intensive golf, which will delight all golf lovers. Shewill take care of everything: booking rounds of golf, courses or lessons with the talented and friendly pros.

You can explore 10 other golf courses within

a 30 km radius, and enjoy the benefits of thalassotherapy centres, which are also nearby.

Reservation Contact EtcheBri 9 avenue de la Forêt 64600 ANGLET Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 20 40 06 Mob.: +33 (0)6 73 53 36 48 www.maisondhotesanglet.com

© Balea

A new life for the school at Guéthary

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The hundred year old school in the village of Guéthary, on the Basque Coast, no longer welcomes pupils. 26 spacious and luxuriously decorated rooms with views of the ocean or the garden, have replaced the classrooms. The hotel will open on 1st June 2015.

Languages spoken: FR/EN/ES/Russian Prices: from €75 per double room

Reservation Contact Hôtel Balea 106 rue Lahourcade 64210 GUETHARY Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 26 08 39 Mob.: +33 (0)6 28 80 37 25 www.baleahotel.com (site en construction)

SUMMER 2015

© Hotel le Santiago

The Santiago***, a new hotel-restaurant with views over the Rhune in Hendaye

Set back from the beach, away from the hustle and bustle, in the centre of Hendaye, the border town with Spain, the hotel Santiago, which is currently being graded, offers thirty or

so rooms (25 sq. m) including two 45 sq. m. family suites.With air conditioning, they all have individual balconies, a shower or bath, large screen TV, a courtesy tray, a safe and offer WiFi.

Spanish side (the Spanish Basque coastline for

The terrace, the hotel garden and swimming pool, which is heated from late May to the end of October, and its three Nordic baths, mean you can enjoy relaxing in the Basque Country.

The terrace of the hotel restaurant is opposite the Rhune, the iconic summit of the Basque mountain.

Hendaye is also on the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago

The ferry from Hendaye marina takes 5 minutes by boat to Hondarribia in Spain. Hendaye is the starting point for numerous long walks on the coastal path, either on the French side (the French Basque coastline for 30 km), or on the

more than 100 km). Starting in Hendaye the GR 10 long distance hiking trail crosses the Pyrénées in the direction of the Mediterranean. de Compostela.

Languages spoken: FR/ES Prices: From €70 per double room - €8 for adult’s breakfast - €6 for children’s breakfast child Reservation Contact Hôtel Le Santiago 15 rue Santiago 64700 HENDAYE Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 20 00 94 www.hotel-le-santiago.com

Emak Bakea, a prestigious location above the ocean Emak Bakea is a large Basque villa which overlooks the magnificent beach of Parlementia, which is also an iconic surfing spot, half way between Bidart and Guéthary, two charming villages on the Basque Coast, six kilometres © Emak Bakea

from Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. This old Lapurdian farm surrounded by a private garden and whose name means « Give us Peace » in Basque, comprises three rooms, two bathrooms, a traditional fully equipped kitchen, a library with a fireplace, a TV lounge with comfortable sofas, as well as a dining room with Ocean views. The house can be rented

with a range of services : breakfast, concierge and customised holidays on request.The owner, Frédéric SCHOLLE, who lives next door, looks after all services, housekeeping, estate management, filling the fridge

Reservation Contact EMAK BAKEA 18 chemin de Parlementia 64210 BIDART Tel.: +33 (0)6 29 17 18 06 www.emakbakea.com

Places of interest

© Bateau Haizea

Discover the bay of Hendaye dining aboard a tuna boat Between 1st April and 31st October, the crew of the Haizea, an old tuna boat, offer original trips out to sea at midday or sunset. Just climb on board to explore the bay of Hendaye while enjoying line caught hake, sea bream, bass or sea bass. On the programme, sailing down the Bidassoa to Cap du Figuier for aperitifs and then the cap on the bay of Loya where the anchor will be dropped to taste the fish of the day.

Gourmet cruises are not recommended for

children under 4 years. Groups are accepted (maximum 12 people).

Languages spoken: FR/EN/E/ES Prices: €39 for the adult menu - €19 for the children’s menu Reservation Contact Quai de la Floride Baie de Txingudi 64700 HENDAYE Tel.: +33 (0)7 81 69 57 85 www.bateau-haizea.com 11

NEWS from AQUITAINE pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr

In the Basque country interior [ ] Accommodation

Two renovated hotels in Itxassou

The hotel Agian, a lovely freshly spruced up Basque house with private parking, has refurbished its 11 bright rooms, furnished with charming furniture on beautiful oak parquet floors with Italian showers, reversible air conditioning, free WiFi and satellite TV. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool at the hotel du Fronton and use the bicycle garage as well as the cleaning facilities intended for hikers. Breakfast and meals are served in the

Bonnet restaurant in the same place.

Prices: from €74 per room for 2 people - €8 for breakfast. Half board possible

restaurant at this country inn is good value.

Prices: from €52 per night - breakfast: €8 - halfboard option: €30 (dinner+ breakfast).

Reservation Contact Hôtel Agian Place du Fronton Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 29 75 21 64250 ITXASSOU www.hotel-agian.com

Reservation Contact Hôtel du Chêne Près de l’église.

64250 ITXASSOU Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 29 75 01 www.lechene-itxassou.com

The Hotel du Chêne ** backs onto the church of Itxassou, one of the most beautiful churches in the Basque Country (17th century). The hotel has 15 refurbished rooms in a country inn style, which mixes rustic and modern styles in predominantly candy colours.

All the rooms have a bathroom with bath, a flat screen television and offer free WiFi. The

© Hotel Le Chêne

© Hotel Agian

Surrounded by mountains, situated 25 km from Bayonne and Biarritz and 5 km from Cambo-les-Bains, Itxassou, is a typical village of Labord, one of the Basque provinces. 4, 000 cherry trees make this small peaceful village famous. Every year it receives thousands of visitors who come to celebrate the « Cherry Festival » in June.Two of its hotels have had a makeover.

the old oaks. Close to all amenities, it offers 63 pitches, among witch 19 mobile homes, 5 chalets, 2 safari tents, games areas, heated pool... It is currently being classified 3 *** and due to open on 15th June 2015.

Comité Régional de Tourisme d’Aquitaine 4 Place Jean Jaurès - CS 31759 33074 Bordeaux Cedex Tél. : +33/(0)556 017 000 Fax : +33/(0)556 017 007

Reservation Contact Route départementale 64240 Hasparren Tel.: +33 (0)5 59 55 02 15 www.camping-au-pays-basque.fr

© Xapitalia

Located in the hills of Hasparren, the campsite is in a quiet setting, a leafy site with views over the mountains and guaranteed shade under

tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr aquitaine-bordeaux.fr

Ideas for breaks Join us on :

Travel through the Basque Country on an electrical bike

© Alain Beguerie CRTA

The Peritrek agency offerstrips across the Basque country from east to west on electric bikes from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to San Sebastian on the Spanish Basque Coast.

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This is both a sporting and cultural trip, 5 days and 4 nights long, through the inland villages and the beautiful and elegant Basque city.

Prices: breaks with half-board from €470 Reservation Contact www.peritrek.com

Document imprimé sur du papier certifié PEFCTM avec des encres végétales par KORUS EDITION (IMPRIM’VERT® - PEFC/10-31-1118).

« Les Terrasses de Xapitalia », a new campsite in Hasparren