Guide to Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The Nouvelle Aquitaine, from Ocean to Mountains

The Nouvelle Aquitaine consists of the former regions of Aquitaine, Charente and Limousin, all merged into a new and very large super-region. Think about this region as ‘the South West by the Ocean’, bordered to the south by the Pyrénées mountains and the Atlantic coast to the west.

The Nouvelle Aquitaine region is composed of twelve departments, including the Gironde, the Dordogne, Charente, Lot-et-Garonne and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, just to name a few, each with its traditions, culture and history. The capital city of Nouvelle Aquitaine is Bordeaux, the other main cities in the region are Périgueux, Bergerac, Limoges, Angouleme, Agen and Pau.

This region typically enjoys warm winters, four 'proper' seasons, it can be damp in some places because of the influence of the gulf stream, the ocean and the mountains to the south, but it enjoys plenty of sunshine in the summer months. With its sun-drenched summers and temperate winters, the region offers a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

It is famous for the Pyrénées, its superb food, classic wines and specialities, slower pace of life, the stone properties and manoirs, beaches perfect for surfers, rugby history, classic Tour de France climbs and mountains for skiers or hikers, all accessible thanks to a good choice of international airports (Bergerac, Bordeaux, Brive...) and train stations. Whether you are looking to surf the waves, explore historic villages, or indulge in world-class cuisine, this enchanting region has something for everyone.

Nouvelle Aquitaine is a prime destination for Europeans who want to relocate to France, boasting beautiful beaches on the Atlantic and stunning peaks on the Pyrénées mountain range. The region boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the prehistoric caves of Lascaux to the medieval castles and fortresses that scatter the landscape.  Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, stroll through charming medieval towns, and immerse themselves in the rich history that unfolds throughout this fascinating region.

The region is known for its delicious lamb, sourced from hillside flocks in the Pyrénées, often used in stews made with seasonal produce such as wild mushrooms from Périgord and fresh vegetables from Landes, Gers and Lot-et-Garonne. The Basque Country is renowned for its seafood, while the whole region has plenty of restaurants that serve fish from the Bay of Biscay, oysters from Arcachon, the famous foie gras, and locally made hard and soft ewe’s milk cheeses.

The meandering Dordogne River is a haven for sporting and outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by deep gorges and rapids that offer endless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. Along the river, quaint Perigourdine houses sit beneath golden cliffs, their steep roofs reflected in the flowing water. La Roque-Gageac is a beautiful place to visit, thanks to its exotic palms and cacti that thrive on the gorge face. Nouvelle Aquitaine also extends across the Pyrénées Atlantiques, where visitors can enjoy even more outdoor adventures, the possibilities are almost endless.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a tourist's paradise and a thriving economic hub. We can't talk about a region that includes Bordeaux, Cognac, Pomerol, Saint-Emilion, and Margaux without mentioning wine. Saint-Emilion, a picturesque medieval village, has an impressive winemaking heritage. The vineyards that stretch from Bordeaux to Garonne produce Medoc, Sauternes, and Bergerac, and the region is dotted with hundreds of small independent growers and extensive vineyards that export delicious wines and spirits the world over.

The region is also a hotspot for innovation and technology, with numerous startups and research centres contributing to its dynamic economy. Combining traditional industries and cutting-edge innovation makes Nouvelle-Aquitaine a vibrant and prosperous place to live and work.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a region where rich history and stunning landscapes come together to offer an unparalleled lifestyle. Here, medieval villages meet vibrant cities, and long sandy beaches line rolling vineyards. Whether you’re exploring ancient fortresses or indulging on regional delicacies, every corner invites you to experience "la belle vie".

With a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a place to embrace both adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for those who seek charm, culture, and the warmth of southwestern France.

Come and discover this enchanting corner of France, click on the links (on the left) to learn about each department and browse all our properties for sale in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.