Port de Lamarque

LAMARQUE

The port of Lamarque offers beautiful views of the Gironde's magnificent isles This is the perfect setting for some memorable experiences, strolling along to the melodious rhythm of the estuary, as the shimmering colours of the sky reflect in the infinite waters. While the port of Lamarque offers beautiful views of the Gironde's magnificent isles, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the famous "Bolt", designed by Vauban, that still watches over the estuary today... The best way to get a closer look is to head over to the jetty at Fort-Médoc, and take a boat ride. Once you're back on dry land, take a walk along the shady riverside path. Enjoy a gourmet picnic before carrying on to the Fort Médoc, or push on even further through the marshland until you reach Arcins and Soussans. As the day draws to a close, visit one of the bars and restaurants that line the riverbank.

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Port d'Arcins

ARCINS

From the port of Arcins, visitors enjoy views of the Gironde Estuary This peaceful place is perfect for daydreaming: here, charming fishing huts are part of the scenery, stretching their long legs into the estuary waters, their vast nets waiting patiently for the next high tide, and the chance to catch lamprey, prawns, or eels depending on the time of year). Visitors enjoy splendid views of the Gironde and its isles, as the river flows peacefully by: the île verte, just opposite Arcins, is the estuary's largest, harbouring a nature reserve. While away the hours as the sun's rays reflect against the estuary's glistening waves, trying to catch a glimpse of the birds that nest on the île verte. It is also the perfect starting point for those wishing to discover the estuary's marshland: 7 miles of footpaths are waiting to be explored.

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Port d'Issan

MARGAUX-CANTENAC

At the port of Issan, the eyes are immediately drawn to the Gironde's calm waters At daybreak, when the fog descends on the port of Issan, the banks of the estuary take on a supernatural air. The jetties and little fishing boats (catching eels, lamprey, and river herring depending on the season) linger in the calm waters, as estuary birds duck and dive in the waves, with the île de Macau and île Margaux in the distance (just opposite the port). Here, the hours seem to pass by more slowly than elsewhere: visitors' eyes are immediately drawn to the Gironde's calm waters, before they head inland to enjoy the shade... and some local Medoc specialities. In this magical place, where, in the past, moored scows would unload their precious cargo: the wines still produced to this day at the region's magnificent chateaus.

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Port de Macau

MACAU

The port of Macau benefits from its perfect location on the banks of the estuary The port of Macau has always benefitted from its perfect location on the banks of the estuary. In the past, Macau was an obligatory port of call for boats transporting goods, including large quantities of fine wine from the local chateaus. Today, the focus is firmly on the showcasing of the port's natural heritage. Visitors can stroll calmly along the banks, between the Gironde and the Garonne, or enjoy a more festive atmosphere at one of the region's lively bars and restaurants. In summer, visitors stride along riverside paths, enjoying the sights and sounds of the magnificent residences that line the shore. Visit in August or September, at high tide, and you might be lucky enough to glimpse the Mascaret, the famous wave that crosses the river against the current. Every year, this impressive natural phenomenon attracts hordes of thrill-seeking surfers.

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La Route de l'estuaire

On foot or by bicycle, follow the fishing huts that line the banks of the Estuary Travel for miles along the Estuary Trail: 19 miles of footpaths traverse an exceptional landscape, carved out by the Gironde river. Head down from Cussac, home to the region's magnificent fortresses (Fort Médoc, Fort Pâté, and the Citadelle de Blaye form the estuary's famous "Bolt", designed by Vauban), to the port of Macau, via Lamarque, Arcins, Margaux, Issan, or Labarde. The names of villages resonate in travellers' minds as they stride along. On foot or by bicycle, follow the fishing huts that line the banks of the Estuary: these graceful constructions are an important part of the Medoc Estuary's heritage. In this wild environment, where flora and fauna combine to create a unique landscape, the carefree mind wanders from vines to marshland, from coastline to damp forests.

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Port de Soussans

SOUSSANS

From the port, views of Chateau de Fumadelle tell of a fascinating history To access the port of Soussans, visitors follow the straight road to the marshland and the banks of the Gironde, passing by the wine properties that line the route. This is a tranquil, picturesque space, offering magnificent panoramic views of the estuary and the spectacular natural havens of the île verte and the île du Nord. Depending on the time and the season, every day offers a new and different landscape. Take advantage of the weather for some lunch at one of the port's picnic tables. Visitors' gaze is naturally drawn naturally to the water, before they pan over to the adjacent Chateau de Fumadelle (to the right of the port) to enjoy views of the magnificently evocative île de Fumadelle.

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Ile Margaux

MARGAUX

The île Margaux has been part of the region's heritage since the eighteenth century Formed at the beginning of the eighteenth century, the île Margaux is an important part of the region's heritage. Today, its reflection still glistens in the sparkling waters of the Medoc estuary, between the île verte and the coast. Subjected to estuary currents that continually shape and reshape its topographical boundaries, it owes its current position to a priceless conservation plan. A footpath designed by the estate’s owner Gérard Favarel surrounds the isle’s vines. 365 fruit trees line the path, creating a natural barrier. On the domain, 5 exceptional grape varieties grow on these unique soils. A tasting is available as part of a guided tour of the isle: learn all about the vines, the winery, and the vat-house. After the tour, discover the unique taste of the island's wines.

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Forêt de Pins au Pian-Médoc

LE PIAN-MEDOC

Visitors stroll through the maritime pines, alongside magnificent leafy trees and cork oaks What a pleasure it is to stroll along the winding paths of the Pine Trail at Pian-Médoc, enjoying the sun as it peeks through the luscious foliage, the sound of birdsong, and the simple pleasures of a relaxing walk.Alongside the Medoc heathland's abundant maritime pines, visitors stroll past the odd leafy tree (chestnuts, birches) and cork oaks (children love peeling off these trees' tender bark, wondering what it could be used for...).The forest seems to fill the whole area, with softwood trees the most abundant.Historically, pines have been used in Pian-Médoc in the production of pine sap resin, an economically important local activity.The shadowy forest allows the region to breathe, and its continued survival comes thanks to the work of the men and women who look after its trees.

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Marais de Labarde

LABARDE

The footpaths that border these wetlands are the perfect place for a long walk Visitors can explore the Labarde marshland all year round (you'll need to wear appropriate clothes in wintertime!).The footpaths that border these wetlands are the perfect place for a long, replenishing walk, surrounded by nature. Stroll around to take advantage of the view of the large pond, or, if you're feeling motivated, head out for a jog! The wetlands' rough tangle of greenery is a sight to behold, with magnificent willows, ashes, and poplars. Keep an eye out for kingfishers hiding among the leaves, as dragonflies zip by. Take a closer look at the eye-popping yellow of the wetlands' beautiful irises, or, with a bit of luck, a patch of frail, fragile summer snowflake, resplendent in white.

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Marais d'Arcins Soussans

ARCINS

This site's exceptional habitat is classified as a Natura 2000 nature reserve In the Arcins-Soussans marshland, visitors keep an eye out for movements in the reeds, natural cover for all sorts of wildlife.This site's exceptional habitat is classified as a Natura 2000 nature reserve: lush meadows, ponds, woods, and reed beds.Two dedicated hiking trails allow visitors to enjoy the pleasures of the outdoors, discovering the rich and varied natural heritage of marshlands teeming with all sorts of animal and plant species.These wetlands are an important nesting site for migratory birds. Seasoned and amateur birdwatchers alike take advantage of a viewing point, located at the top of the specially built observation tower. Plant (estuary angelica, summer snowflake...) and animal enthusiasts are in for a treat... With a bit of luck, visitors might spot an otters, European mink...

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