Best Road Trip Destinations from Bordeaux to Grenoble
France is famous for its gorgeous villages, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks. All these scenic splendors await you as you make your road trip from Bordeaux to Grenoble. Spanning over 500km, this long drive offers a unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders to keep you engaged throughout the journey. In this blog post, we are going to highlight the top places to see when traveling from Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, to Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Strap yourself in, and let's explore!
1. Saint-Emilion
Your first stop should be Saint-Emilion, a charming village renowned for its world-class wineries, romantic architecture, and rich history. Located just a half an hour drive east of Bordeaux, this UNESCO-listed medieval village is famous for producing some of the most exquisite wines in the world. Wine lovers have a chance to book a visit the châteaux on a wine-tasting tour and sample the world-famous wines.
If wine is not your thing, there are plenty of other activities to engage in. The Eglise Monolithe crafted with vernacular wood carving designs is a must-visit place. Wander the quaint cobbled streets, and enjoy the scenic views from the overlook at the church. You could also climb the Tower of the King's Keep, a 13th-century monument with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
2. Sarlat-la-Caneda
Your next destination, Sarlat-la-Caneda, is an idyllic town renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and bustling market scene. You may want to start with a walk through the town's ancient streets, past the 15th and 16th-century half-timbered houses adorned with souvenirs stalls and specialty shops.
One of the must-do activities in Sarlat-la-Caneda is sampling the local cuisine. The town is famous for duck, foie gras, truffles, and numerous other locally produced delicacies. If you're lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, make sure to stop by the local market that features local farmers' fresh produce and craft items.
3. Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a captivating cliff-side village perched almost miraculously 150 meters above the Alzou Canyon. The ancient village is famous for its well-preserved religious architecture, including the Notre Dame Chapel, which has attracted pilgrims for centuries.
The village is accessible by foot or cable car, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The ramparts and castle walls provide a unique spot for panoramic views of the valley and villages below, while the L'Hospitalet Cave, which was once used as a hospital, is a fascinating spot to see Roman and medieval ruins.
4. Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is an iconic bridge that is almost 2,000 years old, located near the town of Nimes, a short drive from Avignon. This aqueduct bears testimony to Roman engineering and is considered one of the most significant Roman structures in France. The bridge spans over 275 meters over the Gard River, making it an impressive feat of Roman craftsmanship.
A visit to the Pont du Gard entails a guided tour of the structure, exploring the striking engineering achievements that enabled Roman civilization's survival. Afterward, you can enjoy the lush greenery of the Parc des Chênes, an idyllic picnic spot.
5. Grenoble
The ultimate destination, Grenoble, lies near the foothills of the French Alps and boasts a rich culture, history, and cuisine. Start by exploring La Bastille de Grenoble, a fortress towering on a hill above the town, which provides breath-taking aerial views of Grenoble and the surrounding mountains.
Grenoble also houses several museums, art galleries, and shopping centers that provide insight into the city's art, history, and culture. The European City of Science, the Stade des Alpes, the Saint-Esprit Church, and Chateau de Sassenage are other notable attractions you should not miss.
Conclusion
The road trip from Bordeaux to Grenoble is an excellent opportunity to explore the many attractions France has to offer. From the idyllic villages to stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks, there's never a dull moment on this journey. However, to make it a success, you need to plan early and make the necessary accommodations and travel arrangements. Regardless of your travel style, you'll undoubtedly find some terrific destinations that fit your budget, preference, and travel style. So, get on the road with a good plan, a reliable car, and a sense of adventure, and enjoy the charms of the French countryside.