News from Aquitaine - Summer 2016 by CRTAquitaine

summer 2016

Since January 2016, the borders of our region are no longer quite the same. The new territory, which is the size of Austria, includes that of the former Aquitaine and those of two other former regions, Poitou Charentes in the north, on the Atlantic coast, and Limousin, northeast of Périgord. The organisations responsible, in particular, for promoting tourism in these three territories will merge.Without waiting for their future structure to be implemented, they are already working together. This explains why news from Limousin is already being included in these columns traditionally dedicated to Aquitaine. Two major events are due to take place in the coming months: the opening, on July 10, of La Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie in Aubusson and the inauguration of Centre International de l’Art Pariétal Montignac-Lascaux, planned for December.These present two good opportunities for a stay in the surrounding area. This issue is not going to cover the opening of La Cité du Vin.The regional tourist office devoted an article to it in a previous issue – autumn/winter 2015. La Cité was indeed inaugurated as expected on 1 June 2016. Its opening, this year, is of course the highlight of the summer in Bordeaux.

In LIMOUSIN [ ] 3

On the Gironde coast

In Bordeaux and its vineyards

In Landes

In the Basque Country

Suggested stays

Stay in Aubusson and discover La Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie

In Périgord

350 years after the Manufacture Royale d’Aubusson, the wonderful skills of the Aubusson tapestry makers have found a new setting with the opening of La Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie in the former Aubusson National School of Decorative Art,

which has been fully restored as a functional and colourful space. Located halfway between Limoges in the west and Clermont-Ferrand in the east (a 1.5 hour drive from both cities), Aubusson is the only site in the world where all the professions 1

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that contribute to the making of a tapestry coexist, from the wool producer to the retailer. Aubusson tapestry tells the story of six centuries of production, patience, humility and creativity, from the anonymous artists of the 15th century to the famous Braque, Le Corbusier, Lurçat, Toffoli and Texier, who made this town the capital of low-warp tapestry. A whole chain of professions is represented here: spinner, dyer, weaver, restorer.

La Cité brings together a documentation centre, training area, platform for contemporary creation and weavers’ workshops. The tapestries are presented in an original set-up, inspired by the techniques of theatre set design, staged in three dedicated areas, the world tapestry room, the hands of Aubusson room and the hangings nave.

The opening is an invitation to discover or rediscover this part of Limousin, staying on site in the heart of the historic quarter of La Terrade, for example (see article below), or treating yourself to a wellness weekend in a plush countryside cocoon. Reservation Contact Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie Rue des Arts 23200 AUBUSSON www.cite-tapisserie.fr/

Where to stay

The suites**** at Les Maisons du Pont, in the centre of Aubusson. canteen seating 25, also boasting a terrace on the banks of the Creuse. Rates: from €75 per night. Reservation Contact Mrs Corinne KAULEK 3-5 rue Alfred Assolant 23200 AUBUSSON Tel.:+ 33 (0)5 55 62 55 69 www.lesmaisonsdupont.com

Les Maisons du Pont is a complex of renovated houses with original granite walls featuring 15th century lintels and monumental fireplaces, now associated with the cutting edge of design. The complex, overlooking the Creuse, comprises 9 luxury ‘appart-hotel’ style suites, including a deco boutique, complemented by a centre dedicated to wellness with jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and massage by appointment, along with a gourmet bistro seating 50, with a terrace overlooking the river and a café-

An eco lodge in the middle of the Champagnat countryside This eco lodge overlooking the Tardes valley draws upon and brings out the value of the wool industry, from sheep farming to the contemporary creation of textile and woven art, responsible for the wealth of the region. This is brought to the fore in features ranging from insulation to bedding and decoration. The lodge can accommodate 4 people and has a sauna built from wood with a green roof,

offering the opportunity to relax with stunning views of the valley. Rates: €200 for 4 people staying 3 days/2 nights. Reservation Contact Gîte l’Eco de la Tardes 23190 CHAMPAGNAT Tel.: +33 (0)5 55 66 34 25 https://lecodelatardes.com/

Where to eat and drink

Hôtel Restaurant Le France in Aubusson

International toque blanche Mr HAWAI offers gourmet cuisine giving pride of place to local products in a restaurant set in a former 18th century coaching inn in the centre of Aubusson.

Reservation Contact Le France 6 rue des Déportés 23200 AUBUSSON Tel.: +33 (0)5 55 66 10 22 www.aubussonlefrance.com

SUMMER 2016

in PÉRIGORD [ ] Stay in Périgord and visit Centre International de l’Art Pariétal Montignac-Lascaux

Over an area of almost 4,000m², Atelier des Fac-Similés du Périgord, which specialises in the mineral reproduction of prehistoric wall

decoration, has been preparing for the event in secret (see article in Nouveautés d’Aquitaine autumn/winter 2015). Reservation Contact Avenue de Lascaux, La Grande Béchade 24290 MONTIGNAC Tel.: +33 (0)5 53 50 15 58 www.lascaux.fr

Situated at the foot of Lascaux hill, Centre International d’Art Pariétal offers visitors a complete model of the cave that has been closed to the public since 1963. Soundscapes and prehistoric experiences guaranteed.

Where to stay

Maison Oléa Rates: From €75 per room. Reservation Contact Maison Oléa La combe de Leygue 24260 LE BUGUE Tel.: +33 (0)5 53 08 48 93 www.olea-dordogne.com

This charming, characterful guest house is situated on the hilltops of Bugue. It features 5 guest rooms including 2 family suites, a studio and 2 cottages with a heated pool and children’s games. Guests are welcomed with warmth and simplicity. Added to this is Francis’ culinary expertise at the table d’hôtes.

Where to eat and drink

In the heart of Montignac, La Roseraie and its shaded terrace on the banks of the Vézère offers elaborate and inventive cuisine prepared by chef Hugo LONGIS using tasty traditional products, all in a 19th century mansion, in which it is also possible to stay.

Reservation Contact La Roseraie 24290 MONTIGNAC LASCAUX Tel.: +33 (0)5 53 50 53 92 www.laroseraie-hotel.com

L’Hostellerie de la Roseraie

Other suggested stays

Musical, cultural and gastronomic holidays in Périgord Noir during the festival This summer, Festival du Périgord Noir 2016, in partnership with tour operator ‘France’s Impressions Voyages’, is offering several holiday packages allowing visitors to discover the extraordinary wealth of Périgord on a musical, cultural and gastronomic journey. On the agenda: excursions, visits, encounters and prestigious concerts as part of Festival du Périgord Noir Several themes to choose from for exciting three-day stays :

• Music and Women: 8-9-10 August 2016 • Music and Gardens: 10-11-12 August 2016 • Music, Art & Gastronomy: 18-19-20 August 2016 Reservation Contact France’s Impressions Voyages 24540 BIRON Information and bookings: Tel.: +33 (0)6 76 76 81 66 ou (0)5 53 23 24 41 contact@voyages-france-impressions.com www.voyages-france-impressions.com/fr/ musicfestival.php 3

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Take the Route des Métiers d’Art

Some of the artisans are offering practical

Taking the Route des Métiers d’Art will also allow you to discover Périgord’s top tourist sites.

This year, 81 art studios located in Périgord are opening to visitors in search of authenticity on the Route des Métiers d’Art. Top artisans, with know-how passed down through generations, will share their passion for exceptional objects in a diverse range of areas, working with wood, earth, glass, leather, textiles, metals, paper, etc.

workshops, such as cabinetmaker Jean-Pierre MOREAU, who is teaching the art of skate board making at ‘Hangar des savoir-faire’ in Trélissac, near Périgueux.

Reservation Contact Hangar des Savoir-Faire 44 bis avenue Michel Grandou 24750 TRELISSAC www.artisanat24.com/2016/03/29/routemetiers-dart/

Online

Two new online booking tools in Périgord • www.perigord-reservation.com is the new official booking site for the Dordogne. Individuals and groups can book all kinds of accommodation, from the traditional to the most unusual. It is also possible for groups to book stays, excursions and business tourism services.

• The Bergerac Sud Dordogne tourist office also has a new booking tool. www.pays-bergerac-reservation.com is dedicated to holiday home rental. On this website, visitors are able to access a choice of around sixty holiday homes spread throughout

Pays de Bergerac. It is, of course, possible to search by date, but also using other criteria such as capacity or access to a swimming pool for example. In just a few clicks, users can check availability and make bookings and secure online payments.

On the Gironde coast [ ] Accommodation

A new lease of life for Hôtel Restaurant Villa Etche Ona in Pyla

This is a family home just as we like it – beautiful, charming neo-Basque architecture amid the pines, a few hundred metres from the Pilat dune.

The lounge bar space, with its comfortable armchairs, fireplace and piano, hosts several jazz concerts throughout the year.

The house has just been given a new lease of life. Its 14 rooms can accommodate between 1 and 3 people.

Reservation Contact Villa Etche Ona 255 boulevard de l’Océan 33115 PYLA-SUR-MER Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 22 72 18 www.etche-ona.com

They feature every comfort and free Wi-Fi in the rooms and throughout the hotel.

Rates: From €85 per double room in low season.

SUMMER 2016

In Bordeaux and its vineyards [ ] Accommodation

Le Clos d’Emile – all the cosy comfort of a guest house « à la française » Bordering the Jardin Public in the centre of Bordeaux, Le Clos d’Emile is a beautiful mansion that has been fully renovated. The choice of colours and chic furniture evokes the greatest moments in the history of Bordeaux. It offers 5 unique, intimate rooms combining refined, stylish decor with modern amenities. Each room invites us on a journey. Stylish and modern, ranging from 24-30m² and equipped with Queen or King size beds, broadband WiFi, air conditioning, wall USB sockets, 100cm flat screen TV, dressing room, bathrobes, a bathroom with shower or bath and shower

and separate toilets depending on the category, they are ideal for travellers seeking well-being and serenity. Rates: From €170 for a standard room. Reservation Contact 3 bis rue Emile Zola 33000 BORDEAUX Tel.: +33 (0)5 33 57 21 23 contact@leclosdemile.fr www.leclosdemile.fr

Suggested stays

The « Canal des 2 Mers by bike » is a new cycling route running over 750km between Royan and Sète, thereby linking the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Almost all its sections have now been developed or are currently under development. The route runs along the Gironde estuary, from the seaside resort of Royan to Bordeaux, via Blaye and then the Canal de Garonne and Canal du Midi, a Unesco World Heritage Site. It crosses rich terroirs evoking the South, sun, conviviality and gastronomy. Heritage is

The Gironde estuary in Agen and beyond - the Canal des Deux Mers by bike

everywhere, from picturesque fortified towns such as Sauveterre-de-Guyenne to famous medieval cities like Carcassonne, renowned vineyards such as Entre-Deux-Mers in

Bordeaux and ‘Art et Histoire’ classified towns like Narbonne, the ancient Roman capital. The route is punctuated by remarkable structures such as the Agen aqueduct, the water slope at Montech, and the Fonserannes and Agde locks. Full details of the various sections are presented on the route’s website, along with interactive maps,‘turnkey’ holiday packages, « AccueilVélo » classified accommodation and services and a selection of must-see sites. www.canaldes2mersavelo.com

Discover the Médoc vineyards by hot air balloon with « O fil de l’air » O fil de l’air organises tourist flights to discover the diverse landscape of the Médoc peninsula, between the estuary, vineyards, châteaux, forests, beaches and lakes, in a secure environment. Flying by balloon to the rhythm of the wind is an exciting experience, offering tranquillity, calm, quiet and a fun change of scenery.

After landing, it will be time to celebrate this

Once on the takeoff site, your experienced driver will share his passion and allow you to discover the basics of his job, giving you all the relevant and practical information, as well as the safety instructions. The whole team will participate in assembling and inflating the balloon.

Prés Joussac, a former 19th century coaching inn, built on the edge of Chenal de Richard (See Nouveautés autumn/winter 2015).

extraordinary adventure with a glass of wine. It is possible to combine a hot air balloon flight with an overnight stay in one of the guest rooms or charming cottages of Domaine des

Reservation Contact O’Fil de l’air Port de Richard 45 Route de Valeyrac 33590 JAU-DIGNAC-ET-LOIRAC Mobil: +33(0)6 35 50 81 82 www.ofildelair.fr Le Domaine Les prés de Joussac 45, Route de Valeyrac 33590 JAU-DIGNAC-ET-LOIRAC Tel.: +33 (0)5 47 83 02 34 www.les-pres-de-joussac.eu 5

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A new river cruise company in Bordeaux Founded in 2002, the US-Australian company AmaWaterways, specialising in river cruises, has now established itself in Bordeaux. Since March 2016, it has been operating a 110 metre cruise ship called «AmaDolce» from the dock opposite the Chartrons district. © Aamawaterways

AmaWaterways is the seventh river cruise company to have chosen Bordeaux as its new home port. www.amawaterways.com

Bordeaux Luxury Unlimited, a new incoming tour agency in Bordeaux to 4 days in Bordeaux and the surrounding region for customers keen to experience unforgettable trips and emotions, with new and original experiences combining the creative, unexpected and authentic.

Inaugurated just a few weeks ago, Bordeaux Luxury Unlimited is a new kind of agency offering made-to-measure tourist stays of 3

It is thus possible to have lunch in a tree hide used for woodpigeon hunting or a fishing hut on stilts, attend a rehearsal of the choir or Ballet de l’Opéra or dine on the terrace of an 18th century apartment overlooking the river and enjoy the best local products and Bordeaux wines. The agency also offers divine wine tasting in the most beautiful châteaux of the Bordeaux

vineyards, where you can also enjoy a shared lunch experience during the wine harvest and a wonderful day’s visit to Bassin d’Arcachon, sleeping in the finest accommodation. To summarise, the agency promises full immersion in the culture of the South-West for the duration of your stay. Reservation Contact Bordeaux Luxury Unlimited Jacques LE GOUEFF Bordeaux 17 rue Fernand Marin 33000 BORDEAUX Tel.: +33 (0)6-10-38-90-22 le-goueff.jacques@orange.fr

Suggested tours

An exceptional exhibition at the prestigious Maison Baccarat

During your stay in Bordeaux, take the opportunity to see the superb « Baccarat, cristal de légende » exhibition. It is being held at 6

Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez, set in château Labottière, from late April until 27 September 2016.

exhibited in 2014 at Paris’ Petit Palais during the exhibition celebrating the 250th anniversary of Maison Baccarat.

Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez is a key arts and culture venue in Bordeaux offering a selection of major works emblematic of the expertise of this crystal manufacturer from Lorraine. Founded in 1764, Baccarat has endured through the eras to become a symbol of excellence and the Art of Living, seducing the courts of Europe, Russia, the East and Asia and adorning the most illustrious tables all around the world. Baccarat’s creations have become real icons, forging the legendary history of this Lorraine manufacturer. Some of the pieces presented in Bordeaux were

Open Friday to Monday from 1pm to 6pm and Tuesday from 1pm to 9pm. Rates: €8 - Reduced rate: €6 Free for children under 12 and on the first Sunday of the month. Reservation Contact Château Labottière - Institut culturel Bernard Magrez 16 rue de Tivoli 33000 BORDEAUX www.institut-bernard-magrez.com

SUMMER 2016

« Architecture des châteaux » circuit in Pauillac Although some Médoc wineries are very old, most of the châteaux date from the 19th century. Mansions were often built in the 17th century, at the time when the Médoc wine estates began to take on their current characteristics.

These are privately owned wine estates visible from public roads. The suggested circuit does not permit anyone to enter these private grounds unless invited by appointment, tourist information, displays, signage, etc.

Pauillac’s Maison du Tourisme et du Vin proposes a circuit taking in 67 châteaux, nestled in their green backdrop and selected for their architectural interest.

Tour conditions are set out in the «Destination Vignoble» guide. Reservation Contact Maison du Tourisme et du Vin de Pauillac La Verrerie 33250 PAUILLAC Tel.: +33 (0)5 56 59 03 08 www.pauillac-medoc.com

This list of châteaux is non-exhaustive and bears no relation to the quality of the wines produced by the vineyards selected.

Many châteaux will nevertheless welcome you for a tour of their cellars.

IN Landes [ ] Accommodation

Vieux Port camp site in Messanges The largest 5-star camp-site in France is located in Messanges, in the south of Landes. After you have parked your car and set down your luggage, you are sure to find everything you need on site: direct access to the beach, entertainment and evening events throughout the season from its opening in March, a spa and wellness area, water park, equestrian centre and shops. The camp site offers a wide range of accommodation on its 1546 pitches, from pitch only to the rental of mobile homes, cottages,

lodges and chalets. The big news for 2016 is the opening of the Arena, a covered auditorium for up to 2720 people. This auditorium will be open all year, making it particularly interesting for business tourism. Reservation Contact Camping Le Vieux Port, Plage Sud 40660 MESSANGES Tel.: +33 (0)5 58 48 22 00 www.levieuxport.com

Suggested stays

Landes surf camps for 100% surf immersion Surf camps or surf lodges are accommodation options that are totally dedicated to surfers, offering turnkey breaks with surfing lessons and transport to surf spots... where everyone can share their passion in an environment and with services that match the «surf way of life», just a short walk away from the waves.

Landes, offering fifteen beds in Seignosse, in renovated brick farmhouse bungalows.

This type of accommodation, catering for both adults and teenagers, has multiplied in recent years throughout the Landes coast.

There are also many others: Nature Surf Camp in Moliets et Maa, Koala Surfcamp in Hossegor, Ride Board Surfcamp in Mimizan, La Dune Surf Camp in Messanges,Villa Tiki in Vieux Boucau…

It is no longer a case of simply presenting the Natural Surf Lodge, a pioneer of this field in

More recently, Silver’Landes has been established in Leon, at the edge of the forest, accommodating up to 14 people in rooms with bathrooms and toilets.

www.tourismelandes.com 7

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In the Basque Country [ ] Enjoy new experiences The Basque Country offers many opportunities for pure relaxation or partying, inland or on the coast, and so much more besides. You can also enjoy new experiences, like walking in the mountains at night, or embarking in a Hawaiian canoe in the bay of SaintJean-de-Luz.

Explore the Basque mountains by night

In Ascain, every Tuesday from April to 27 September, you can thus climb the slopes of the Rhune (450m elevation), to the legendary summit of the Basque mountains. The « Arola Xola » cabin is your meeting place to snack on local specialities and appreciate the magic of this spectacle.

In Aïnhoa, every Monday from 18 July to 22 September, you can join an evening walk (300m elevation) to a secluded mountain chapel. On the agenda: typical snack and sunset over one of the best views of the Pyrenees. The return walk is by the light of headlamps. Rates: €25 per adult - €20 per child lamp and snack included. Reservation Contact www.terreetcotebasques.com www.leclosdemile.fr

« Les soirées du berger » invites you to take to the heights and watch the sunset with a stunning view of the illuminated coastal towns and villages.

Discover the Bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz on a va ‘a with an outrigger for balance. Based in Ciboure and Hendaye, Atlantic Pirogue offers 2 hour sunset trips to enjoy with family and friends or as part of a group. Rates: €29 per person. Reservation Contact www.atlantic-pirogue.com

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

San Sebastian, in Spanish, or Donostia in Basque, the 2016 European Capital of Culture, is only around twenty kilometres from Hendaye. It would be a shame to stay in the French Basque Country and not take advantage of being so close to the capital of the Spanish Basque province of Gipuzkoa.

TOPO, a rail shuttle, will take you there safely in just 35 minutes, for just €2.90 per person each way - 2 departures per hour from Hendaye. Reservation Contact Réservations et programme complet de Donostia 2016 : www.terreetcotebasques.com

Join us on :

Take the TOPO to San Sebastian for the evening

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

A va’a, also called a polynesian pirogue or outrigger canoe, is a pirogue stabilised by a single outrigger connected to the hull. This craft is very slender but very stable, easy to handle and can accommodate 4 to 8 people. It represents one of the oldest means of transportation known to man. Before human beings had domesticated the horse, they were already travelling in hollowed out tree trunks