News from Aquitaine - Autumn 2010 by CRTAquitaine

AQUITAINE TOURIST BOARD NEWSLETTER INFORMATION

SOMMAIRE SUMMARY

Wine tourism

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ISSN :1767/5537

automn 2010

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NEWS from

AQUITAINE

Château life at Domaine Rollan de By Stay in style at Guîtres Wine tourism by horse

Sustainable tourism

Framissima holiday village in Soustons Eden Park, a hotel that feels like home La Petite Couronne obtain the European eco-label Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse The Voûtes des Chartrons Château La Chèze in Floirac Cap Landes at Tartas

Gastronomy

Château Saint-Geniès, a gourmet port of call

Cookery lessons Gastronomy, luxury and terroir from France’s Impressions

Thalassotherapy

The spa of the Grand Hôtel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Accommodation

Hôtel La Co(o)rniche on Pyla-Plage La Villa d’O, a charming hotel Le Prieuré guest house at the Château de Biron Clos Norma, opera-themed guest rooms A contemporary stopover at Hossegor’s Hôtel 202 Recharge your batteries at Simply Canvas

[ WINE TOURISM ]

Business tourism

Biarritz: your own special address

20/20 for Hôtel 7B Hôtel Mercure Le Président Biarritz Centre Enjoy the exceptional location of Le Bellevue Le Biarritz, the wellbeing option Discover the Biarritz spirit at Hôtel Windsor Le Gamaritz, a colourful hotel An Art-deco break at Le Café de Paris

Events

Pistoletto, takes centre stage at Evento 2011

Transport

A shuttle service between Biarritz and Pau Billi, Bordeaux illico budget terminal Pau-Rome, a new opening in the South-East

Wine tasting lessons and accommodation at Château Haut-Garrigue On an organically-farmed, biodynamic vineyard, Caroline Feely, a WSET1 accredited trainer and winemaker at Château Haut-Garrigue in Purple Périgord, is offering wine tasting courses of two or four hours, delivered by her wine tourism company, French Wine Adventures, in French or English. Wine tasting lessons for beginners and introductions to the wines of Dordogne and the crus of Haut-Garrigue (€15 per person for two hours) can be accompanied by a “wine and food matching” meal (€25 per person) or a trip involving a walk and an aperitif (€10 per adult, €5 for children). A longer and more advanced course is also available with two day packages on offer: • The “Winemaker for a Day” package (€150 per person) includes a wine tasting course, lunch and the creation of a unique blend of wine. • The “Wine Discovery” workshop is an extended introductory course and is available for €99 per person. These days can be followed by a stay in the gîte at Château Haut-Garrigue, known as The Grape Escape. With the capacity to accommodate four people, it is situated at the heart of the vineyards offering an uninterrupted view from the terrace. Hire of the gîte starts at €350 per week in low season. I Information and bookings

French Wine Adventures Château Haut Garrigue 24240 Saussignac Tel: +33 553 227 271 Mobile: +33 635 933 188 www.frenchwineadventures.com caroline@ frenchwineadventures.com

Online

www.leteich-tourisme.com www.meretgolf.com

Publications

Vineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’s guide By bike in Aquitaine, a tourist leaflet on the move A press kit to rediscover the major attractions

Tool box

http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr 3000 photos available to professionals

New © French Wine Adventures

The new brand name of the CRTA

1 Wine and Spirit Education Trust www.wset.co.uk

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NEWS from AQUITAINE pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr

[WINE TOURISM ] calm, luxurious appearance. The six spacious rooms are decorated in taupe and pearl grey colours, with separate bathrooms and four-poster beds to reinforce the romantic, plush ambiance of the hotel. After breakfast, the hotel organises a daily tasting session of wines of the Médoc and the Domaines Rollan de By, which guests are invited to attend at 11.30am. The area surrounding the hotel offers a number of tourist attractions, and a service offering tours of neighbouring châteaux and wineries is available on request. © Rollan de By

The organisation of seminars with capacity for 80 people and the hire of the hotel for private functions are both possible. Rooms for two people start at €150 with breakfast included. I Information and bookings

Château life at Domaine Rollan de By The 4-star Hôtel Rollan de By is housed in an 18th century charterhouse at the heart of the Médoc vines of Domaine Rollan de By and just a stone’s throw from the Gironde estuary. The estate owner, Jean Guyon, has used his talent as a former interior designer to give the place a

Hôtel Rollan de By **** 3 Route du Haut Condissas 33340 Bégadan Tel: +33 556 412 775 Fax: +33 556 413 782 http://hotelrollandeby.com hotel@rollandeby.com

heart of nature. The scene is made complete with the contemporary decor of the rooms, and the honey and fruit jam made on the estate and served at breakfast.

Situated just 30 minutes from Bordeaux and 10 minutes from SaintÉmilion, the 12 hectares of woods and meadows at Venise d’Astacus lend themselves to walks, bike rides or even a rowing boat trip on the lake, which you are free to enjoy swimming in at your leisure when you’re not enjoying a trip to the spa-sauna-solarium to make your stay complete. On the other side of the lake, the Château d’Astacus produces Bordeaux red wine which you can discover during a wine tasting session. Several activities are offered during the courses including an introduction to winemaking trades, botanical discovery and a cookery course. Room prices start at €125 in low season.

Stay in style at Guîtres

I Information and bookings

Sometimes, we all want to treat ourselves to a special break and Venise d’Astacus is one of those extraordinary places where you can savour time standing still in the vineyards of the Libourne and Saint-Emilion region. Five guest rooms and floating suites are available, all equipped with a lake side and bank side terrace in a setting of pure romance at the

Venise d’Astacus Champ de Gougeon 33 910 Sablons Tel: +33 688 542 134 http://venisedastacus.com resa@venisedastacus.com

Wine tourism by horse Bruno Delmas, formerly of Vinexpo, is a leading wine expert and horse lover. He recently created BD Tours, an agency which organises customised wine tourism tours and breaks; on foot or by horse, guided or unguided, but always in the company of a wine professional. BD Tours will organise itineraries, daily activities, châteaux visits, accommodation, meals and of course, transport, in accordance with the preferred mode of transport, and wishes and budget of each client. The organisation also offers a whole range of ways to discover the wine region by horse or horse-drawn carriage, lasting from one to five days. This is an organisation that caters for all occasions and client types – both beginners and those with experience, and horse riders and walkers alike.

I Information and bookings

BD Tours in Naujan-et-Postiac (33). Tel: + 33 960 056 210 Fax: + 33 557 748 105 www.bdtours.fr info@bdtours.fr

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[ SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ] © CRTA

Framissima holiday village NA-TU-RE Situated to the south of the Landes forest, Soustons offers both peaceful lakesides and vast ocean beaches.The tour operator, Fram, has chosen this unspoilt natural environment as the setting for its third French holiday village, the first to be awarded the “Nature” label. Not only does Framissima Nature Soustons boast a 14-hectare green site, but the holiday village also aims to actively co-operate with environmentally practices, through the choice of building materials, power supplied by solar energy, rule of no cars on site, use of rain water recovery… The tour operator has given priority to the environment, space (150 m2 of land per pitch) and privacy by avoiding placing pitches in rows. There is a whole host of activities and facilities available on site: entertainment in the hall, a swimming pool and aquatic centre with lagoon… For children, there is something for all ages; the kids club is free for 417 year olds during the school holidays. In terms of activities available outside the site, the surrounding network of cycle tracks offers 35 km available for cycling, with bikes available to hire on site. For those who prefer water-based activities, the lake and beach provide plenty of options.

Hire of accommodation only starts at €245 for seven days in low season. I Information and bookings

Framissima Nature Soustons 63 avenue du Port d’Albret 40140 Soustons Tel: +33 826 463 727 (0,15 €/min) www.fram.fr

Marketed as a new-generation hotel, Pau’s Eden Park is a 3-star establishment which capitalises on independence and ecology. A contemporary showpiece, the hotel oozes a warm and friendly atmosphere which reflects the owners’ desire to create a hotel that “feels like home”. To offer a greater level of independence, the rooms are all directly accessible without going through reception. In addition to its Tourism and Handicap label (catering for all four types of handicap), the hotel also adopts an environmentally friendly approach. Systematic insulation is ensured through double glazing, automatic light switches, an air-to-air heat pump heating system, and above all, the supply of hot water courtesy of 40 m2 of solar panels, are just some examples of the action carried out to help reduce CO2 emissions. The hotel offers 26 rooms, each measuring 25 m2 and fitted with a private terrace, exceptionally comfortable bedding and a view of the swimming pool or hotel grounds. Queen, twin and family rooms can accommodate between one and four people. For medium and long stays, a kitchenette is also available. Double rooms start at €89 per night, excluding breakfast.

Eden Park, a hotel that feels like home

I Information and bookings

Hôtel Eden Park *** Route de Tarbes – 2 rue de l’Aubisque 64320 Bizanos Tel: +33 559 406 464 www.hotel-edenpark-pau.com contact@hotel-edenpark-pau.com

La Petite Couronne is the 15th Aquitaine hotel to obtain the European eco-label

Since they began managing Hôtel La Petite Couronne in July 2009, Iwan and Nancy have worked to ensure the accommodation they offer is environmentally friendly and respectful to nature. Their hard work was rewarded in April 2010 with a European eco-label accredited by AFNOR, recognised widely in the tourism field. The certification was awarded in response to the extensive action taken to reduce the ecological footprint of the hotel: • The use of energy-saving light bulbs • The production of hot water using solar panels

• The furnishing of rooms with soya fibre mattresses and bamboo cotton coverings • The construction of structures using wood • The preservation of green spaces • The creation of a private vegetable garden • The implementation of a “Dutchtub” ecological spa The 10 rooms on the ground and first floor all benefit from luxurious yet sustainable comfort, in a calm and peaceful rural environment. In the surrounding area, there is no shortage of activities and the hotel web site offers a detailed schedule of forthcoming events as well as ideas for places to visit. Single rooms start at €75 per night in low season and double rooms start at €79 with breakfast included. I Information and bookings

Hôtellerie La Petite Couronne - Route d’Amou 40700 Saint Cricq Chalosse Tel: +33 558 793 837 www.lapetitecouronne.com info@lapetitecouronne.com 3

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[BUSINESS TOURISM ] Situated on the quays, the reception areas of the Palais de la Bourse, an architectural ensemble symbolic of Bordeaux constructed by the architect, Jacques Gabriel, have been entirely redeveloped. Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse offers 2,400 m2 devoted to the hosting of events at the heart of the city. There are four different areas available: • Espace Gabriel contains a lecture hall with capacity for 200 people and two meeting rooms offering a total surface area of 250 m2, • Espace Garonne offers four meeting rooms combined with three lounge areas for breaks and receptions, all contained within 260 m2, • Espace Tourny comprises seven formal reception rooms situated in succession over a total surface area of 426 m2, decorated

Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse

I Information and bookings

and furnished with 19th century furniture, • Espace Bourse is a 1,500 m2 multi-purpose area built around the Hall de la Bourse, ideal for multiple functions (trade fairs, gala evenings, conferences…) and notably compri© Les Voûtes des Chartrons

The Voûtes des Chartrons for professional meetings Symbolic of the great era of Bordeaux wine trade, the Voûtes des Chartrons owes its refurbishment to two people who were passionate about the place, Natacha and Alexandre Dost-Lillet; Natacha was once a gallery owner and Alexandre was a broker in Bordeaux for over 20 years. In this former barrel cellar, which is one of the oldest in Bordeaux, Natacha and Alexandre have created an area offering the possibility to cater for countless events: conferences, seminars, business meals, exhibitions, tasting sessions, cocktail parties…

Bordeaux Place de la Bourse – Reception and Events department 12 place de la Bourse 33076 Bordeaux Cedex Tel: +33 556 795 095 Fax: +33 556 486 218 www.bordeauxplacebourse.com placebourse@bordeaux.cci.fr

the cut stone walls, steel counters and orange walls have been added, creating a unique, warm area, despite the coolness of the cellar, which is ideal for storing wine. Bordeaux crus classés typical of their appellation are also displayed in each alcove, often accompanied by works of art. With the capacity to cater for 300 people, the Voûtes des Chartrons is a unique place situated in the heart of Bordeaux, close to the tramway and the quayside car park. I Information and bookings

Voûtes des Chartrons in Bordeaux (33) The long, vaulted building is a skilful fusion of traditional and contemporary influences. On © Château La Chèze

Customised services at Château La Chèze in Floirac An architectural jewel from the late 19th century, Château de la Chèze has been entirely renovated by the Pragmaty Events agency, to create a functional, user-friendly area for companies. Four meeting rooms with views of the wooded grounds, a restaurant with capacity to seat 100 and 14 guest rooms make up the full offering, which aims to make life simple for guests and simplify the organisation of professional events.

sing a large reception hall able to accommodate up to 600 people. Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse is located on line C of the tramway, directly accessible from the train station and above a pay-and-display car park offering 1,600 spaces. These new reception facilities meet technological requirements in terms of event management, while offering a prestigious, historical setting for business tourism events.

www.voutes-chartrons.com contact@voutes-chartrons.com

hall on a semi-residential or residential basis, while pack B places emphasis on social activities and original workshops for guests to relax while developing their skills. Finally, pack C offers support and guidance to help companies to respond to a variety of issues. Château de La Chèze is situated just five minutes from the ring road and 10 minutes from Bordeaux train station, by car. I Information and bookings

Château La Chèze in Floirac (33) Tel: +33 683 888 143 The agency has set up three packs for guests to choose from. Pack A comprises hire of the

www.pragmaty-events.com contact@pragmaty-events.com

Cap Landes, nature’s version of business tourism

colleagues. In terms of catering, there is something for all tastes, from pastry snacks to regional meals and healthy menus.

By capitalising on high-quality services and strong regional elements, such as pine trees for the construction of buildings, and regional gastronomy for the elaboration of menus, Cap Landes is integrated into the landscape and has earned an excellent reputation with countless companies. I Information and bookings

Situated just 30 kilometres from Dax and Mont-de-Marsan in the heart of the département of Landes, Cap Landes offers a wide range of services: catering for professional training, discovery classes, and even sports or community breaks… The buildings have recently been fitted with the necessary technology and facilities needed to ensure professional events run smoothly. With four wings able to accommodate up to 10 people each, Cap Landes also places emphasis on conviviality and the development of social links between

Cap Landes à Tartas (40) Tel: +33 558 738 852 Fax: +33 558 735 779 www.caplandes.fr contact@caplandes.fr

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Château Saint-Geniès, a gourmet port of call in Dordogne Situated approximately fifty kilometres from Périgueux and close to Sarlat, Pierre Chaminade and Pascale Balducci have entirely refurbished the Château de Saint-Geniès, a historical monument dating back to the 13th century, in order to create a gastronomic restaurant and several guest rooms. In terms of cuisine, in addition to the high standard of quality of the produce, the emphasis has been placed on expertise: the chef, Pierre Morat, and several members of the team have

[GASTRONOMY ] choice! The lunchtime menu (starter + main course) is priced at €17.90 and the wine cellar is open to the public: all are welcome to head downstairs and select a bottle of wine, with prices starting from €16.90. Guest rooms start at €90 per night, and are available in July and August. Annual closure is from January to March. I Information and bookings

previously worked with Alain Ducasse. The cuisine is creative and characterful, highlighting certified regional produce and served in an Italian style. You are sure to be spoilt for

Le restaurant du Château Le Bourg 24590 Saint-Geniès Tel: +33 553 283 677 www.restaurantduchateau.com

[COOKERY LESSONS] The Dordogne-based travel agency, France’s Impressions, is launching a new “luxury and gastronomy’’ break in Aquitaine. The innovative and creative eight-night/nineday programme is available for groups of eight to twelve people.Amongst friends or family, you will share cookery lessons with Michelinstarred and/or famous chefs, enjoy meals in renowned restaurants including two Michelinstarred establishments featured in the Michelin guide, experience several excursions to discover and admire the nature and treasures of the region (a visit to the gardens of Eyrignac, a truffle farm, a winemaking château…) and spend the night in luxury accommodation in Bordeaux and Dordogne, at Le Prieuré at the Château de Biron. Built over half a century ago as a home for the canon priests, Le Prieuré now offers prestigious guest rooms and table d’hôtes. The tour’s four cookery lessons last for three hours and take place in Le Prieuré, in a kitchen that was entirely renovated in 2009. Recipes vary according to the season, in order to take

The new tour combining gastronomy, luxury and terroir, from France’s Impressions

full advantage of regional produce. During the lessons, which are on offer to both beginners and experienced gourmets, a select group of chefs will share their secrets and introduce participants to the art of cookery in a friendly, interactive environment. The tour combines tourism with gastronomy

by offering the opportunity to discover the terroirs of Dordogne and Aquitaine, in both French and English. Tours have been scheduled for six dates: 12th to 20th November 2010, 11th to 19th February 2011, 18th to 26th March 2011, 8th to 16th April 2011, 6th to 14th May 2011 and 10th to 18th June 2011. Guests stay in double rooms and pay €3,190/person including accommodation in a luxury guest house and a 5-star hotel, all meals (including wine) excluding one lunch and one dinner, four cookery lessons with famous chefs and/or Michelin-starred chefs (all bilingual in French and English), travel to surrounding areas, tours and entrance fees and the services of a bilingual guide (French and English). A short version of the gastronomic tour (3 days/2 nights) is also available at Le Prieuré in Biron. I Information and bookings

France’s Impressions Notre-Dame 24540 Biron Tel: +33 553 232 441 www.voyages-france-impressions.com contact@voyages-france-impressions.com

[ THALASSOTHERAPY] © Spa Loreamar Grand Hôtel

A fashionable treatment at the spa of the Grand Hôtel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz The Loreamar Thalasso Spa at the 5-star Grand Hôtel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a unique place devoted to wellbeing. With a view of the Atlantic and decor combining wood with pebbles, the spa is launching a new treatment: Beauté anti-âge. This 5-day break combining luxury, health and relaxation is based on the concept of ageing prevention due to lifestyle. Over the five days, guests will alternate their time between physical activity, relaxation (massage from around the world, circulatory

massage…) and treatments (lift 6 facial, face spray and mask, wrap…). Price: €1,400 per person excluding accommodation. I Information and bookings

Loreamar Thalasso Spa Grand Hôtel 43, boulevard Thiers 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz Tel: +33 559 263 536 Fax: +33 559 519 984 www.luzgrandhotel.fr reservation@luzgrandhotel.fr 5

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[ ACCOMMODATION ] Charming, romantic, unusual… © Philippe Garcia

Philippe Stark and William Téchoueyres reinvent Hôtel La Co(o)rniche on Pyla-Plage

In spring 2010 at Le Pyla in the Bay of Arcachon, Hôtel La Corniche was reborn under the leadership of the famous designer, Philippe Starck, and William Téchoueyres, former national rugby player and current owner of the hotel. The establishment benefits from an exceptional location on the slope of the Dune of Pilat at the heart of the pine forest, with views of the Bay of Arcachon, the Banc d’Arguin and the Atlantic ocean.

Nestled amongst the pine trees, the former Neo-Basque oyster farm contains 12 rooms, each measuring at least 28 m2 with balconies or terraces, and a legendary panoramic terrace which now extends onto an infinity pool and a restaurant/bar with an open kitchen boasting chefs of renown. An intimate atmosphere prevails in the secure, quiet, luxury rooms, like in a holiday home that you return to with pleasure for the objects you have left there. In the restaurant, you will love the genuine cuisine which gives pride of place to high-quality produce. By preserving the authenticity and history of the establishment whilst applying a touch of modernism and prestige, La Corniche, now known as Co(o)rniche, has returned to its former glory. Guest rooms start at €190 per night in low season, prices valid until 31 May 2011. Breakfast is priced between €12 and €19 euros according to the option chosen. I Information and bookings

Hôtel La Co(o)rniche 46 boulevard Louis Gaume 33115 Pyla sur Mer Tel: +33 556 227 211 Fax: +33 556 227 021 www.lacoorniche-pyla.com reservation.lacorniche@yahoo.fr

La Villa d’O, a charming hotel in the Gironde countryside cornices mingle with contemporary colours which correspond to those of the painting in each room. In terms of cuisine, La Villa d’O is all about home-made food, with Maman jams served at breakfast and table d’hôtes produced by two professional chefs who work using fresh produce. La Villa d’O offers half-board accommodation and meal packages and can also cater for small events (capacity for 15 people). The three-hectare grounds of the site lend themselves to walks, while the fitness and spa areas (sauna and whirlpool baths) and heated outdoor swimming pool provide relaxation. In the surrounding area, hiking and cycling excursions will enable you to discover the Libournais wine region. Double rooms start from €120 in low season, breakfast not included. Situated in Saint-Loubès, in the Libournais region, La Villa d’O stands on the heights of the winegrowing countryside, a charming hotel housed in a beautiful manor house dating back to 1850, the Château Bellevue. The rooms are distributed between the château and the former wine cellars. Each of the rooms bears a name containing the letter Ô, and is decorated in keeping with an artist’s painting. The period roses and

I Information and bookings

Hôtel La Villa d’O - Château Bellevue 54 chemin de Terrefort 33450 Saint-Loubès Tel: +33 556 063 517 www.lavillado.fr lavillado@orange.fr

Le Prieuré guest house at the Château de Biron, an authentic and prestigious place to stay

September and November, table d’hôtes is available for dinner, with prices starting at €28 per person with wine included. The regional cuisine is always home-made and showcases regional produce in a friendly atmosphere. Weather permitting, supper is served in the garden. Rooms start at €120 in low season for two people with breakfast included, and €140 euros in high season. © Prieuré de Biron

Open from April to September, the five large guest rooms at Le Prieuré offer a warm and comfortable reception and the chance to stay in a protected historical building. Decorated with respect for the original features, Le Prieuré highlights objects which bear witness to life in a different era without compromising on comfort, both inside and outside the building. Exposed beams, natural colours, antique furniture and silky fabrics turn the guest rooms into warm and cosy spaces. An independent apartment is also available for hire by the night, or by the week from Saturday to Saturday. Between the months of April and July and

I Information and bookings

Le Prieuré of the Château de Biron in Biron (24) Tel: +33 553 619 303 Mobile: +33 684 313 838 www.leprieurebiron.com leprieurebiron@gmail.com

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Clos Norma, opera-themed guest rooms

The last dwelling place of Pope Clement V, Uzeste is a village situated in the Landes of Gascony, boasting a number of treasures: a collegiate church from the 12th and 13th centuries boasting Gothic architecture, a wash house, a famous jazz festival launched by the modern-day “troubadour”, Bernard Lubat, the Ciron River, famous for canoeing trips, and an opera-themed guest house.

Situated in the village facing the collegiate church, Lucie and Emmanuel Fouquet have refurbished an ancient family house to create a guest house offering table d’hôtes: Clos Norma. The manor house opens onto wooded grounds which contain a bamboo garden on the side of the garden and a swimming pool on the side of the courtyard. A soprano singer, Lucie’s passion for opera led the couple to decorate each of the three rooms (named Tosca, Alcina and Manon) with inspiration from opera backdrops. The antique furniture and fittings go well with the monochrome colours and plush fabrics. For breakfast and table d’hôtes, your hosts will gladly welcome you in the living room or the garden according to the temperature and weather conditions. Home cooking is served at the dining table and is prepared using home-made produce. Double rooms start from €80 with breakfast included. Table d’hôtes meals: €25 , available by reservation on specific days only. I Information and bookings

Clos Norma 17 rue Faza 33730 Uzeste Tel: +33 556 252 948 www.closnorma.com contact@closnorma.com

A contemporary stopover at Hossegor’s Hôtel 202 Hôtel 202 offers 22 pleasant air-conditioned rooms measuring 25 m2 and two suites measuring 50 m2, all with balconies, Internet access and flat-screen televisions. The rooms are mainly white with touches of mocha and have bathrooms fitted with an independent shower and bath tub. The hotel also has underground parking, a heated swimming pool, a sauna, and a bar-lounge, offering a comfortable, “designer” atmosphere with a touch of “rock ‘n’ roll”. With a decor providing ambiances of an American dance hall, countless varieties of tea and cocktails can be sampled whilst enjoying the view overlooking the outdoor swimming pool. Rooms start from €100 in low season, with breakfast included. I Information and bookings

Hôtel 20 *** 202 Avenue du Golf 40150 Hossegor Tel: +33 558 432 202 Situated in Hossegor centre just 50 metres from the famous golf course designed by J. Morisson in 1930, the 3-star, Art deco-inspired

www.hotel202.fr contact@hotel202.fr

Recharge your batteries in a safari tent at Simply Canvas Two experienced travellers, Santi and Sandra, have created Simply Canvas, a unique five-hectare site situated at the heart of French Tuscany in Lot-et-Garonne. Located at the border of Dordogne in Saint-Jean-de-Duras, six 35 m2 safari tents and a holiday home are available for travellers in search of exchange, tranquility and spirituality. The clean, natural tents benefit from a veranda, a private external bathroom, modern comforts and solar electricity. Environmentallyfriendly practices are in operation throughout the site, with priority given to composting, water from a well and organic produce. In addition to the tents, there is a holiday home divided to form two separate gîtes with a private garden; perfect for a stay with friends or as a set of two families. The table d’hôtes available is enriched by the voyages of Santi and Sandra, offering meals created using local organic produce. There are countless activities available in the surrounding area: visits to “bastide” towns, châteaux, country markets… On site, you can enjoy the site grounds, the fruit trees and the swimming pool or even get involved with daily life in the organic vegetable garden and kitchen. Canvas tents for four people start from €100 per day and €560 per week in low season, with breakfast included. Minimum stay of three nights in low season and one week in July and August. Open from May to October.

Themed stays (romance, kids, wellbeing…) are also organised throughout the year; see the web site for further information. I Information and bookings

Simply Canvas - Lieu-dit Bonac 47120 St Jean de Duras Tel: +33 553 889 480 www.simplycanvas.eu sansan@simplycanvas.eu 7

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NEWS from AQUITAINE pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr

[ACCOMMODATION ] Biarritz: your own special address book In this issue, the focus is on Biarritz, “beach of kings and queen of beaches”. In the city of Biarritz, whale hunters have been replaced by surfers, photographers and Latin American writers. Individual festivals follow on one from the other, countless delicacies compete for your taste buds’ attention and the sea is always sublime. Here we propose seven hotels for discovering the city of Biarritz.

20/20 for Hôtel 7B

7B is a 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Biarritz, just a couple of minutes on foot from the covered market and the Grande Plage. It is an establishment which feels like a house, with common areas to promote sociability and conviviality. The hotel follows the trend of

“boutique hotels”, offering an intimate atmosphere and a personalised service, notably, with the offer of well-informed tourism advice. The contemporary decor emphasises colour, design and sport from the 1960’s, notably the automobile, with eye-catching photos printed on the lampshades.The 12 guest rooms benefit from free access to the latest technology. For families, it is possible to create a suite for five people by joining a Deluxe room with a Superieur room to obtain a large 45 m2 area with a bath tub, shower, two dressing rooms and two WC’s. The tree-lined patio, lounge-living room and table d’hôtes allow you to recharge your batteries in communal areas. Double rooms start at €120 per night in low season. Breakfast is priced at €14 per person. I Information and bookings

Hôtel 7B *** 7 Rue de Gascogne 64200 Biarritz Tel: +33 559 500 777 www.hotel7b.com contact@hotel7b.com

The 3-star Hôtel Mercure re-opened its doors in July 2009 after six months of renovation. Situated in Place Clémenceau, next to the Biarritz conference and entertainment centres and 100m from the Grande Plage, the hotel oozes a spirit of pop music, modernism and design, and offers a pleasant panorama with an open view of the sea. The 69 rooms and eight junior suites benefit from full soundproofing, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, personal safes, mini bars and a welcome basket. The decor is minimalistic, with flashes of colour (fuchsia, green and brown) and a mix of soft and cosy materials. In terms of activities, the nearby shopping area and many museums offer just a glimpse of the many options for things to do. The hotel also contains a meeting room with capacity for 10 people and all the latest technology, for the organisation of seminars or other professional events. Double rooms start at €121 per night in low season. Please note that several promotions and package breaks are also available on line.

A youthful makeover for Hôtel Mercure Le Président Biarritz Centre***

I Information and bookings

Hôtel Mercure Le Président Biarritz Centre *** 18 Place Clémenceau 64600 Biarritz Tel: +33 559 246 640 www.mercure.com h7286@accor.com

Enjoy the exceptional location of Le Bellevue

The location of the hotel, the reception and the quality of services make Le Bellevue an establishment to remember, perfect for a break combining urban and coastal tourism. Prices start from €70 for a double room with a courtyard view in mid-season and €90 for a double room with a sea view. Prices do not include breakfast. I Information and bookings © Le Bellevue

Hôtel Bellevue suits its name well. Situated on the sea front, across from one of Biarritz’s surfing hot spots, the Grande Plage, and at the heart of the city centre, just a stone’s throw from the casino and the shops, this 2-star hotel offers direct access to the beach and an uninterrupted view. Entirely renovated in 2010, the hotel successfully combines ancient charm with modern simplicity. The 24 refined, guest rooms each have a separate bathroom. The rooms give priority to woodland and charcoal grey tones and combine a variety of materials to produce a calm atmosphere. The rooms offer comfort and are all fitted with televisions and telephones.

Hôtel Le Bellevue ** 5 avenue Edouard VII 64200 Biarritz Tel: +33 559 030 450 Fax: +33 559 474 493 www.lebellevue.fr info@lebellevue.fr

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Le Biarritz, the wellbeing option In addition to the conveniences and services offered by a 3-star hotel, Le Biarritz has the advantage of offering free access to premium

fitness, relaxation and wellbeing areas, as well as the opportunity for hotel guests to take advantage of special rates in the Thalmar thalassotherapy centre, located just three minutes from the hotel. Double rooms start from €124 per night in low season. The hotel can also cater for professional events. I Information and bookings

Renovated in 2008 to offer a seaside ambiance, the 49 rooms of this hotel are shared between two floors and combine warm woodland tones with contemporary furniture. Some also offer views of the sea or the Pyrenean mountain range. The hotel’s Le Ponton restaurant is open all year round, catering for casual and half-board clients in a plush setting, with one of the finest views along the Basque coast, the bay of Biarritz. The fresh, unpretentious cuisine changes according to the season, and gives pride of place to sea food and Basque gastronomy.

Hôtel Le Biarritz *** 30 avenue de la Milady 64200 Biarritz Tel: +33 825 126 464 (€0.15/min) www.biarritz-thalasso.com/hotel-le-biarritz

Discover the Biarritz spirit at Hôtel Windsor from its terrace. The hotel also offers themed package options (golf, thalassotherapy, romantic breaks…) and can organise customised breaks according to individual require-

ments. Being aware of environmental protection, a more ecological world and high-quality services, Hôtel Windsor has obtained the European Eco-label as well as HotelCert and Qualité Tourisme certifications. In low season, double rooms start at €70 and rooms with a sea view start at €120. I Information and bookings

The 3-star Hôtel Windsor is situated on the Grande Plage opposite the Casino de Biarritz. Benefiting from an exceptional location facing the ocean and wonderful views, the establishment offers 48 rooms and junior suites. With minimalistic and designer decor, this former town house combines charm, sophistication and modernism. The hotel’s Le Galion restaurant is a pleasant place to dine, offering the chance to sample local flavours whilst enjoying a typical Biarritz activity - relaxing on the terrace. If you want to sip a cocktail, head to Le Bleu Café bar which offers a beautiful view of the beach

Hôtel Windsor *** Grande Plage 64200 Biarritz Tel: +33 559 240 852 Fax: +33 559 249 890 www.hotelwindsorbiarritz.com hotelwindsor-biarritz@wanadoo.fr

Le Gamaritz, a colourful hotel With a commitment to adopting an environmentally friendly approach with the objective of obtaining the European eco-label, Hôtel Le Gamaritz constantly strives to improve its

ecological footprint and already uses automatic heating sensors and boasts an exemplary waste management system… Two meeting rooms with the capacity for 12 and 25 people respectively, are available for the organisation of meetings. Double rooms start at €65 in low season. I Information and bookings

Situated in the ocean-side district of Port Vieux, the 2-star Hôtel Le Gamaritz is a fun, modern, colourful haven of 12 rooms and two suites. Green, orange and blackcurrant are tastefully combined to produce a refined decor. With contemporary furnishings, quality services and free Wi-Fi with a wireless access point, guests are free to come and go as they please, 24 hours a day. Breakfast takes the form of a buffet in the neighbouring restaurant, Le Caritz, owned by the same owner, which offers an ocean view from its panoramic terraces.

Hôtel Le Gamaritz ** 5, perspective de la Côte des Basques 64200 Biarritz Tel: + 33 559 240 023 Fax: + 33 559 242 626 www.legamaritz.com contact@legamaritz.com

An Art-deco break at Le Café de Paris tions from Spain and beyond. The terrace bar offers a premium viewing point from which to admire the sea views. Double rooms start at €230 euros per night in low season. Please note that several promotions are available online. © Le Café de Paris

Entirely renovated in 2008 and 2009, the decor of Le Café de Paris is largely inspired by the ocean liner, SS Normandie, a masterpiece of French decorative art from the 1920’s. The 4-star hotel comprises 19 rooms with sea views, shared between four floors. The decor plays on a contrast between warm and cold mineral tones while a painting by the Basque artist, Michel Hacala, brings a striking touch of colour to each room. The gourmet dining table of the premium brasserie-style Le Café de Paris restaurant will take you on a gourmet journey through the Gascony region with a number of infiltra-

I Information and bookings

Hôtel Le Café de Paris **** 5 place Bellevue 64200 Biarritz Tel: + 33 559 241 953 Fax: +33 559 241 820 http://cafedeparis.hotel-biarritz-hmc.com cafedeparis@hmc-hotels.com 9

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[EVENTS] The Italian artist, Pistoletto, takes centre stage at Evento 2011

Launched in 2009 by the city of Bordeaux, Evento is an international event (which takes place every other year) of multi-disciplinary,

contemporary, artistic creation whose central theme is the city itself. For the second event scheduled to take place in October 2011, the Italian artist, Michelangelo Pistoletto, who received a Golden Lion award at the Venice Biennale in 2003, is responsible for the exhibition of an original project in partnership with artists invited to create works of art and invest in public space. A leading figure in international and European contemporary art, Michelangelo is a genre-breaking artist, originating from the Cittadelarte foundation, an up-andcoming laboratory responsible for bringing

art back to the heart of the “social fabric”. Given the success of the first event which welcomed just short of 380,000 visitors, combined with the outstanding creativity of Michelangelo Pistoletto, Evento 2011 promises to be a major hit. I Press contacts

Bordeaux city hall: Nicolas Corne / Maryvonne Fruauff Tel: +33 556 102 046 Fax: +33 556 102 176 www.bordeaux.fr n.corne@mairie-bordeaux.fr / m.fruauff@mairie-bordeaux.fr

[TRANSPORT ] Biarritz Tourisme has created a shuttle service between the airports of Biarritz and Pau. From now on, it is possible to land in Pau and travel on to Biarritz, and vice versa, with your luggage following you to your final destination. An excellent idea for travelling with peace of mind. The shuttle service runs every day of the week with three round trips a day. Bookings are made online at www.aeroportexpress.com and payment is settled with the shuttle service driver on the day of travel (€35 single/€70 return per person). I Information and bookings

Billi, Bordeaux illico budget terminal

Pau-Rome, a new opening in the South-East

Bordeaux Airport has constructed an air terminal that is specifically devoted to passengers travelling with budget airlines. Known as Billi, the terminal offers a simplified service to enable rapid access to planes. Once passengers have checked in, they can access a dining area where shops and duty free products are available.

The Hungarian airline, CityLine Swiss, will open a new service travelling from Pau-Rome via Marseille on 20th September 2010. A return flight will operate once a day excluding Saturdays. A return ticket should cost approximately €148 to Rome and €99 for a Pau-Marseille flight.

For those in the know about the logic behind budget airlines and in favour of more personal organisation in exchange for low prices, the terminal will respond to all expectations. For those new to the idea, it might take a little more preparation, for example, remembering to print out your tickets…

Pau Airport Tel: +33 5 593 333 300

Tel: +33 559 262 587

I Information and bookings

aeroportexpress@biarritz.fr www.aeroportexpress.com

Bordeaux Airport Tel: + 33 556 345 050

I Information and bookings

A shuttle service between the airports of Biarritz and Pau

www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr

[ONLINE] First successful cyber-steps for www.leteich-tourisme.com

www.meretgolf.com, a friendly, multi-lingual web site

The most easterly town in the Bay of Arcachon, Le Teich is famous for its bird reserve, but also offers plenty of other tourist attractions as shown on the new tourist web site: www.leteich-tourisme.com.

Mer et Golf, who manage several 3 and 4-star tourist apartment complexes in the region, have unveiled a new web site: www.meretgolf.com, available in five languages (French, English, German, Spanish and Portuguese).The multi-functional platform allows users to view descriptions of accommodation, order documentation and book online.

The web site is a showcase and source of information for tourists looking for sea gastronomy and nature, notably with tours for discovering oyster-farming and the production of Aquitaine caviar. The ideal web site for family holidays in the tranquil heart of nature.

In addition, the “Recommendations” section gives details of promotions while the “Holiday ideas” section generates ideas for holidays in accordance with a specified budget or activity. Clever, don’t you think?!

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[PUBLICATIONS ] Vineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’s guide The aim of this document is to simplify access to wine-based tourism. It is not an exhaustive guide but a brochure aiming to open the door to available options and arouse the reader’s interest. The brochure complements our web site devoted to wine tourism in Aquitaine: www.oenoland.fr. Through four sections entitled “Taste”, “Discover”, “Share” and “Entertainment”, this generously illustrated brochure highlights the attractions of our region, the unique character of our vineyards, the protected environment, the rich human and cultural heritage, the quality of production and the major tourist sites associated with wine. Vineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’s guide also offers several practical ideas for places to visit and stay. Vineyards of Aquitaine is published in French, English and German and can be downloaded from our web site, www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr, in the section entitled “Our brochures”.

By bike in Aquitaine, a tourist leaflet on the move The Regional Tourist Board has updated and re-published its brochure devoted to cycling tourism: By bike in Aquitaine. A veritable gateway to cycling in the region, this document is essential for all enthusiasts. On one side, there is a map of the main cycle tracks, bike paths and multi-use trails in Aquitaine, illustrated with our selections. On the other side, you will find ideas for circuits, news concerning turnkey cycling breaks, and all the necessary practical information and contacts for planning a trip. 15,000 copies of By bike in Aquitaine have been published and the new version is available in three languages: French, English and Dutch, and is downloadable from our web site, www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr, along with all our other brochures.

A press kit to rediscover the major attractions of the region Un nouveau regard sur les sites majeurs presents 12 unmissable sites in our region: Bordeaux, the Dune of Pilat, the Vézère Valley the Ossau Valley, the Pyrenees... With our selections, regional wonders and original places to visit, this document allows you to discover or re-discover the treasures which give our region its excellent reputation, from a different angle. This press kit is available in French, English and German and can be viewed online from the Extranet for tourism professionals, http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr.

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[TOOL BOX] http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr: an unmissable web site http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr is an information space reserved for tourism professionals and an essential site for organising travel in Aquitaine. The site displays the region’s tourist offering (ideas for circuits, unmissable attractions, themed tourist information, group offers and products, conference centres), an up-to-date, detailed list of Aquitaine professionals able to assist with the organisation of stays in the region (receiving agencies, bus operators, tourist guides, public tourism organisations) and the mission and services of the Regional Tourist Board (image library, observatory…).

The online image library of Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board contains 3,000 images available to tourism professionals, tour operators, travel agencies and journalists, which can be used to illustrate booklets and articles promoting Aquitaine. Access to the image library is limited and subject to validation from an administrator. To obtain an access code, please send an e-mail to Chloé Kiner, Manager of the Public Relations department at Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board (chloe.kiner@tourisme-aquitaine.fr). Your e-mail should outline your reasoning, your requirements and how the requested images will be used. Image library account holders can access all images (whose rights may be passed to third parties), perform an image search using key words and add products to a shopping basket which can be saved and downloaded. To access the web site, visit: http://photodoc.tourisme-aquitaine.fr.

[ NEW ] The new brand name of the CRTA In order to keep pace with the development of graphic codes and consumer behaviour, the CRTA is aiming to review its graphic charter and create a strong brand name.

Comité Régional de Tourisme d’Aquitaine Cité Mondiale 23, parvis des Chartrons 33074 Bordeaux Cedex Tel. +33(0)5 56 01 70 00 Fax +33(0)5 56 01 70 07 tourisme@tourisme-aquitaine.fr pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr

Over the course of six months, various factors, including an in-depth benchmark of the region, a study of competition and targets, and various test phases (both internal and external) have been taken into consideration in order to create a meaningful logo and graphic charter.

The name and baseline which were eventually selected draw on the conclusions of each stage of consideration and constitute the heart of the new visual identity of the CRTA.The new brand name, l’Aquitaine votre Sud-Ouest sur-mesure, will accompany the CRTA in all communication and promotional activity.

Imprimé avec des encres à base végétale sur du papier issu de forêts gérées durablement certifié PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes) - IL - 337 926 745 RCS.Bordeaux.

Accommodation, restaurants, tours, leisure and a schedule of events are also accessible from the platform.

3000 photos of Aquitaine available to professionals