Location
Located on the right bank of the Gironde estuary 56km north of Bordeaux, the city of Blaye is the main hub for convenient, nearby wine touring visits to some of the world’s most renowned wine chateau’s including, Mouton Rothschild, Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Haut-Brion, Petrus, the town of St Emilion and Cognac. All are less than one hours drive from Blaye.
The region around Blaye is celebrated for Côtes de Blaye, the red wine made in the nearby vineyards along the eastern Gironde. The soil in the Blaye region is particularly good for growing asparagus and the gourmet vegetable can be bought from March to May.
Blaye is easily accessible by bus and by car. Once in Blaye it is easy to see all of the attractions on foot.
Attractions & Activities
Historical Monuments
Admire magnificent views and historical monuments such as the 17th century Blaye Citadel. Designed by the famous military architect Vauban as a true walled city to protect Bordeaux from sea invasions, the Blaye Citadel stands majestically on a rocky promontory, proudly overlooking the Gironde Estuary. A listed Historic Monument, this place is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Major Vauban Sites. A trip to see the Blaye fortifications is also a chance to admire magnificent views of the largest estuary in Western Europe.
Wine Tours & Tastings
The Blaye and Bourg Wine Trail will introduce you to the region’s appellations, each one proud of their wines and their rich heritage. Blaye alone has 450 wine properties over 6000 acres which welcome visitors to try their wines and explore the regions. Most of the wineries are family owned and the wine tours and wine tastings are run by the winemakers themselves. The region also boasts the prehistoric caves, the Grotte de Pair-non-Pair at Prignac-et-Marcamps which are definitely worth a visit between tastings!
Cycling Trails
One of the most rewarding ways is to explore the Blaye countryside by bicycle. From Blaye, cross the Gironde Estuary by ferry to Lamarque, in the middle of the Medoc, a peninsula packed with some of the greatest wine territories in the world. From here a cycle track leads you gently to the heart of the great wine town. Amidst its grand quarters, sample its many lively, trendy cultural and gastronomic offerings.
Recognised Gastronomy
Blaye is an established gourmet destination, featuring numerous fine-dining restaurants where a new wave of chefs put modern twists on authentic cuisine. The Noisettines Du Medoc Tasting Tour will allow you to indulge in a hazelnut delicacy going back hundreds of years- still made the traditional way in copper cauldrons, whilst the Blaye market offers a delicious variety of outstanding fresh produce.