Travel
Breathtaking Bordeaux
The Place de la Bourse reflected in Miror d’eau
John Low visits the city that has been described as ‘the very essence of elegance’ With the advent of affordable flights from Ireland, Bordeaux is another French jewel which, like, for example Nante, Aix, Lyon and Nice, is just the ticket for a short break or the base for surrounding excursions. Even The Queen is a fan: ‘The very essence of elegance,’ she concluded after her last visit. They say there’s a special atmosphere in Bordeaux and it’s easy to see why: After Paris it is probably France’s grandest -- some say grander -- riverside city with Unesco--recognised architecture and so much more space and light than the French capital to enjoy its attractions. Many of these line the majestic Garonne. As you would expect there’s restaurants, bars (don’t forget the Dog and Duck pub –happy hour from 5!) and cafes aplenty, with quirky historic lanes and districts boasting artisan foods, retro fashions, art galleries, markets, craft shops and smart boutiques. (Not to forgetting Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrianised street in France where you will find all the main fashion names and designer labels). Top-end shops gravitate around the Triangle d’Or, Bordeaux’s monumental heart, bounded by three fine boulevards (Cours Clemenceau, Cours de l’Intendance, Allées de Tourny). For those more interested in quirky, individual fashion try the boutiques in the Saint Paul and Saint Piert districts. A noteworthy feature of the city is the promenade on the left bank of the Garonne which has become one of Bordeaux’s most popular spots, hosting many events and festivals during the summer. The 4.5 km promenade is also perfect for a walk or a bicycle tour. The most interesting part of it is between the two bridges of Bordeaux. The old town has some of the largest concentrations of 18th century buildings in Europe which will knock your socks off. And if you are in to markets you have to visit Marches des Capucines, the biggest daily market in the city. Among the displays of fruit, vegetables and sweets are numerous cafes and restaurants. It gets very busy at weekends 12 Senior Times l August 2020 l www.seniortimes.ie
Interest-filled sidelanes abound in the city. Porte de Cailhau can be seen in the background
Miror d’eau But undoubtedly one of the new main attractions of the city is the remarkable riverside Miroir d’eau. Built in 2006 it is the world’s largest reflecting pool. The surface is made from blue granite covered in water, reflecting the 18th century Place de la Bourse. At regular intervals fountains dotted all over its surface spray water 30 metres into the air and the game for youngsters is to try to avoid getting drenched. It’s also a popular game for older youngsters on a hot, sunny day. Another modern attraction, particularly for wine lovers is Cité du Vin, the wine museum housed in a shiny aluminum structure that looks like a giant foot. It has an enormous wine shop featuring well over a thousand wines from France and the rest of the world as well as numerous tasting opportunities amid the mesmerising inter-active displays.
