A long weekend in Bordeaux

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Bordeaux is wine. But this dynamic city and its legendary surrounding vineyards have other charms to discover – including some of the world’s most sought-after spas. So if you’re dreaming of a long weekend of indulgence, take a look at our itinerary of Bordeaux luxury hotels, tailor made for boutique escapes.

• Independent itinerary for a long weekend in Bordeaux, based on arriving and departing from Bordeaux airport
• Shaped around staying at SLH boutique hotels, with days devoted to fine dining, wine tasting, spa treatments (and a touch of sightseeing)
• Highlights include a vinotherapy spa hotel in Bordeaux and historic countryside châteaux

Just 20 minutes by car from Bordeaux you’ll find Les Sources de Caudalie, a boutique hotel set on the Château Smith Haut Lafitte wine estate. Suggested stay 2 nights.

Made up of rustic buildings dotted among vineyards and around a lake, Caudalie feels like a private village entirely devoted to enjoying the finer things in life. You could grab hotel bikes and head out cycling for the day. Lounge beside one of three pools, or wander the grounds to seek out contemporary sculptures.

If you’ve come to Bordeaux for the wine, there’s more than one way to savour it at Les Sources de Caudalie. With a tour of the Château Smith Haut Lafitte winery. A tasting at Rouge Bar, guided by the sommelier. Or paired with a meal at two-Michelin-starred La Grand’Vigne, where it perfectly complements dishes that take you on a journey through Aquitaine.

To put a spin on things, have a treatment or two at Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa – the original Caudalie Spa and one of only two in the world. Some of our favourite wine-infused therapies include the massages that use grape pulp as an exfoliator, and a relaxing barrel bath soak in revitalising grape extract.

If you have a few hours to spare, go into Bordeaux. Get a feel for its history at the UNESCO-listed cathedral, its gothic spires towering over the old town rooftops. Just a short walk from there is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which claims Titian and Rubens among its collection. Or to experience the city’s modern side, head to the riverside to visit the Musée d’Art Contemporain, set in an impressive converted warehouse.

After Bordeaux, make your way into the countryside for a 2 night stay at a luxury château hotel. After all, what better way to experience the heritage of Aquitaine than making yourself at home in a centuries-old castle? Here’s where you could be staying…

Hotel Château Grand Barrail, Saint-Emilion
This 19th-century château is inspired by the fairy tale style of the Loire Valley. Rooms mix contemporary styling with details that evoke the opulence of Baroque France, such as canopy and four-poster beds. Set in manicured gardens and surrounded by vineyards, this is somewhere to unwind.

When you’re not swimming in the pool or enjoying classic Bistrot fare in the turn-of-the-century dining room, drop into Saint-Emilion. This medieval town ranks as one of the prettiest in Aquitaine – particularly when the roses are in bloom on its imposing protective walls.

You’ll have to look closer to discover its most magnificent feature, though. Follow the path beneath the Trinity Chapel belfry, which takes you down to the underground church – a cavernous space hewn out of the rock itself.

Château des Vigiers, Bergerac
With its aged stone walls, white shutters and steep, red-tiled rooftops, Château des Vigiers whisks you back to the 16th century. Opt for a Deluxe Chateau Room, up in the rafters with exposed beams and far-reaching views over the golf course. Play a round or two, or continue your weekend of pampering with a massage at the spa.

If you’re in the mood to explore, wander the hotel vineyards or venture into Bergerac. This market town on the banks of the Dordogne has a beautifully preserved old quarter, full of half-timbered medieval buildings and independent boutiques.

Can’t make your mind up? Why not extend your stay by a couple of days to experience all three hotels?

Aeroport de Bordeaux is 10km from the city centre and easily reached by taxi or private transfer. You may want to hire a car to explore wider Aquitaine. Ask our Voice Reservation Team for details about transfers or transport provided by individual hotels.

To book the hotels on this independent itinerary, get in touch with our Voice Reservation Team on 0800 0482 314 (UK) & 1-877-234-7033 (US). You can find a full list of our dedicated toll-free numbers here. We’re ready and waiting to plan luxury adventures 24 hours and day, seven days a week. So whenever inspiration strikes, just get in touch.