Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, France is a beautiful city next to the river that is thriving and has been since the Romans first started their trading centre. It is full of deep history that can be seen in every corner of the city.
The Rue Ste-Catherine is entirely pedestrianized and over a kilometre long, this is the busiest shopping street in Bordeaux; it is also one of the town’s oldest thoroughfares. In Roman times, it was a major north-south road. Today, it is still important, since it links the Grand Theâtre to the Place de la Victoire. The street has borne the same name since the 18th century, in honour of the martyr saint whose chapel is located nearby.
Place de la Bourse is also known as Place Royale, this is a perfect example of Bordeaux architecture at the end of the 18th century. This is a beautiful line of archways and slate roofs, with an impressive fountain in the centre - a setting made even more magnificent when it is lit up at night. There is a superb view of the Garonne river’s right bank from this square.
Bordeaux Wine Tasting is something that should never be missed when passing through. Chateau Beychevelle is a fine Bordeaux red wine, or ‘Claret’ as reds from the region are known. Throughout February you can visit the beautiful Chateau and taste its produce. You can turn up anytime, although the Chateau requests that groups of visitors telephone before arriving. Visitors to the Chateau are not charged a fee for their visit but decorum suggests that you purchase some of the fine wine that they produce before you leave.