Window On France – La Gironde

Discover Gironde with So Chic, the largest department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of Southwestern France, and indeed the largest department in the whole of France!

Formed during the French Revolution on March 4, 1790, Gironde is the result of merging parts of the old provinces of Guyenne and Gascony. The department is renowned for its major waterways, with the Dordogne and Garonne rivers flowing through it, forming the largest estuary in France. Bordeaux, one of the most famous wine regions globally, is the department’s prefecture, and the Bordelais region is where the different kinds of Bordeaux Wines are produced.

Gironde is divided into four main zones: the Coastal zone, also known as the Cote d’Argent, the western half covered by forests, the Bazadais region known for its agriculture, and the Bordelais region.

Discover the wonders of Gironde, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to offer you an unforgettable experience.

Welcome to the captivating Bassin d’Arcachon, a hidden gem nestled in the idyllic Southwest France. With its picturesque fishing villages, breathtaking beaches, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this region is a true paradise for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.
But that’s not all – the Bassin d’Arcachon is also renowned for its delectable oysters and luxurious resorts, making it a true haven for foodies and those seeking a touch of sophistication.

When it comes to the best time to visit, summer is the perfect season to enjoy everything this remarkable destination has to offer, from the vibrant atmosphere to the sunny weather and abundance of activities.

Eat delicious Oysters in Singapore

Gironde is home to the city of Bordeaux, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, thanks to its stunning Enlightenment-era architecture, over 350 historic monuments, and scores of notable museums and art galleries.

Bordeaux – a region filled with history and intriguing wine facts – is undoubtedly the most famous wine-producing area in the world. Though famed for its deep, dark, and highly priced red wines that are meant to age for years, Bordeaux also boasts a considerable number of plantings for Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle, grapes used to make both dry whites and sweet dessert wines. In fact, until the 1970s, Bordeaux produced more white wine than red wine.

While there are several grape varietals grown in Bordeaux, the top five are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon, with each grape contributing unique flavors such as plum, blackcurrant, perfume, grapefruit zest, and honey notes, respectively.

As France’s largest appellation, Bordeaux produces 900 million bottles of wine annually from over 250,000 acres of vineyard. While the region’s iconic and highly priced releases steal the spotlight, it’s worth noting that many good and reasonably priced wines are also produced here.

Originating from Bordeaux, the cannelé has become a beloved icon in the Southwest of France. This brown pastry, flavored with rum and vanilla, features a soft and tender custard center and a dark, thick caramelized crust that’s sure to leave your taste buds tingling with delight.

Meanwhile, the charming town of Saint-Emilion is famous for its macaroons, which are credited to the 17th-century Ursuline sisters. These delicate treats, made from almond and egg whites, are a true delight for any food lover.

But if savory is more your thing, fear not! Foie gras is ubiquitous in Southwest France and the Gironde region, with local poultry producers offering tours of their production facilities and selling their mouth-watering products in local markets. So, whether you’re a lover of sweet or savory, Southwest France has something to offer every foodie.