With its trickling streams, vineyards and attractive red-tiled farmhouses, the scenic appeal of Sauternes is hard to deny. The surrounding countryside also charms visitors with castles, ruins and walking and cycling routes. However, it is the sweet wines produced here that have earned the region worldwide renown. Escape to this quiet and tranquil part of France and sample the famous wines.
Head to the vineyards for a day of tasting, relaxing and learning about viticulture. Château d'Arche, in the hills overlooking the town of Sauternes, offers spectacular views along with its wine. Enjoy a guided tour and tasting or stroll around the site independently. Look for information boards describing the special qualities of the soil and grapes and explaining how they give the wine its sweeter taste.
The scenically located Château de Rayne Vigneau estate contains an old mansion with two round towers and grows sémillon and sauvignon blanc in its hilly fields. In the neighbourhood is the Château Filhot, set on an 865-acre (3.5-square-kilometre) estate you can explore free. Taste the produce of both estates during organised tours. Continue familiarizing yourself with the local wine scene at other nearby wineries, including Château Lamothe and Château Guiraud.
Paddle along the Ciron River on a kayak, passing the village of Sauternes and scenic vineyards. For hiking and biking, head to the woods and lakes in the Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park southwest of Sauternes. The nearby towns of Bommes and Villandraut offer adventurous activities including high ropes courses and watersports.
On Saturdays during the summer, a busy market is held in the centre of town. Browse the local produce, some of which has been picked that morning from the surrounding fields.
Sauternes is about an hour away from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport by car. For additional information on wine and kayak tours, as well as advice on other area attractions, stop at the tourism office on the Main Street, which is open year-round.