Bordeaux in 2022: Fête le Vin and Stylish Stays
In a country blessed with a phenomenal wine heritage, Bordeaux is the undisputed star. With its reputation as the epicentre of the world’s fine wines coupled with delicious gastronomy, it’s little surprise that the region is an icon for wine tourism – and our most popular destination for wine tours.
The largest wine-growing region in France, Bordeaux has over 10,000 chateaux scattered across the various appellations – more than enough to entice wine lovers back time after time. And don’t forget the region’s eponymous capital when planning your Bordeaux wine tour.
Situated on the banks of the River Garonne, Bordeaux has been a major port since pre-Roman times and a crossroads for European trade. The city’s grand 18th century architecture reflects its wealth and prosperity, while its restaurants are a magnet for gourmands.
Bordeaux Wine Festival
If you’re planning a Bordeaux wine tour in 2022, consider coinciding your visit with the biannual Bordeaux Fête le Vin. This year sees the event joined with other viticulture events, as part of the inaugural Bordeaux Wine Week.
The week begins with events addressing climate change, wine in 2030 and sustainable wines and spirits, before moving on to a celebration of Bordeaux wine and gastronomy.
Between 23 and 26 June, over 80 wine appellations from Bordeaux and New Aquitaine line a two-kilometre stretch along the banks of the Garonne, offering tastings of wines mostly produced organically or certified under an environmental scheme. Interspersed along the way are stalls showcasing regional specialities such as oysters, charcuterie and foie gras – giving you ample opportunity to experiment with food and wine pairings.
This sensory experience takes on a new dimension at 11pm each night with a sound and light display of the wine universe projected on the Palais de la Bourse.
If you’d love to join us for the Bordeaux Fête le Vin, we’re running a special Bordeaux wine tour during the festival that includes a wine and cheese experience, entry to the wine route with tasting tickets and tram, as well as small group tours of Pomerol and Saint-Emilion.
Stylish Stays in Bordeaux
So where’s the best place to stay while enjoying the delights of Bordeaux? We offer several options, but there are a handful of elegant urban hotels currently causing a buzz with SmoothRed clients and staff alike.
New in 2021, Villas Foch Bordeaux is a refined five-star property in Bordeaux’s most prestigious location. Steeped in the city’s rich maritime history, the renovated 19th century building is a beguiling blend of neo-classicism and modernity, with a truly delightful spa.
Set around a majestic inner courtyard, Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa champions the art of relaxation in the historic centre of Bordeaux. This haven of tranquility has just 27 rooms and suites, along with an outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, library and spa.
Another stylish urban bolthole is the Hôtel de Sèze. Offering four-star luxury, boutique rooms, a heavenly spa and fine dining restaurant, this elegant property even has a six-hole golf course a short drive away, should you wish to practise your swing.
From the heart of town to the stunning countryside, no Bordeaux wine tour is complete without a trip to a luxurious chateaux, surrounded by sublime countryside with vines stretching into the distance. A twin-centre wine tour offers the perfect combination of city and countryside, giving you the opportunity to experience two sides of the diverse Bordeaux region. Our Bordeaux and Saint Emilion Chateau stay is one possibility, though as ever we can adapt any tour to suit your exact requirements.
To book your bespoke Bordeaux wine tour, contact sales@smoothred.com or call +44 208 877 4940 for more information.
