Bordeaux Overview
By Roz Andrews
Bordeaux, in the southwest of France, is famous for the fine wines produced in the surrounding countryside.
Perhaps the most impressive building in the city is the classical theater (Grand Théâtre). Its façade features statues of the Muses and Graces. Inside, a grand stone staircase leads to a paneled auditorium with gilded columns.
The Esplanade des Quinconces, a large open space bordered by tree-lined avenues, leads down to the Quai Louis XVIII, where pretty terraces provide panoramic views over the river Garonne.
Bordeaux is the perfect base for a tour of the wine region. The House of Wine (Maison du Vin), in the city center, provides information on winery tours and tasting sessions. Bear in mind that most vineyards are closed to visitors at harvest time, from around late September to early October.
To the northwest of Bordeaux is the flat Médoc region with vineyards producing mainly red wines. Several wine-producing châteaux are within each reach of the village of Margaux. The vineyards of the Graves region, southeast of Bordeaux, are renowned for dry white wines, while sweet white wines originate in the hilly Sauternes area.
For food lovers, the area around Place St. Pierre and Place du Parlement in Bordeaux has the most varied and plentiful choice of restaurants. The local fare includes fresh seafood and rum-containing cannelé cakes. Go!
