Family-Friendly Adventures in Graves, Bordeaux!

Graves Wine Region

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Graves - Pessac-Léognan

Morning

Start your family adventure in the Graves wine region by visiting the historic town of Pessac. Here, the famous Château Pape Clément offers a captivating tour that’s perfect for all ages. Dive into the history of one of the oldest vineyards in Bordeaux, dating back to the 13th century. The château"s wine tour, which includes a grape juice tasting for the kids, gives a comprehensive look at the winemaking process.

How to get there: Pessac is easily accessible by car from Bordeaux, taking about 20 minutes via the A630 motorway. Public transport options include a train from Bordeaux St-Jean to Pessac station.

Afternoon

After lunch in Pessac, head to Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Just a 10-minute drive away, this château not only offers a family-friendly wine tour but also showcases an impressive contemporary art collection throughout its grounds. It’s an ideal way to combine culture with oenology.

Day 2: Sauternais - Sweet Wine and Historic Sites

Morning

On your second day, venture to the southern part of the Graves region to discover the Sauternes appellation, renowned for its lusciously sweet white wines. Begin at Château Guiraud, a certified organic vineyard, which provides an exciting beekeeping tour alongside their wine tasting. It’s a fantastic way to learn about biodiversity and the importance of bees in winemaking.

How to get there: Drive from Bordeaux to Sauternes, which takes about an hour via the A62 and D1113.

Afternoon

Finish your tour at Château de Cazeneuve, an enchanting historic estate where Kings of France once stayed. The castle offers enchanting walks through its royal grounds and a mesmerizing look into the history intertwined with winemaking tradition. It"s a perfect spot to relax and let the kids explore.

Each visit combines educational elements with fun, ensuring that both children and adults leave with newfound knowledge and delightful memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale St. André)

Why Visit?

Morning: Visit Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale St. André)

Start your day at the majestic Bordeaux Cathedral, located in the heart of the city. This stunning gothic cathedral, a national monument of France, is famous for its role in the history of the royal Angevin Empire. Families can admire its architectural details, like the twin spires and beautiful rose window. Entry is free, and the cathedral typically opens from 10 AM.

For a special experience, climb the 231 steps of the Pey Berland Tower next door (open from 10 AM, tickets around €6 for adults, free for children under 18). From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bordeaux and spot other landmarks.

Lunch at La Tupina

After exploring the cathedral, head to La Tupina, about a 15-minute walk from the cathedral, for a delightful lunch. This cozy restaurant offers traditional southwestern French cuisine, perfect for a family meal.

Afternoon: Jardin Public

A 20-minute walk from La Tupina will bring you to Jardin Public. Established in the 18th century, this park features a natural history museum and a large playground, ideal for children to run around and play.

Evening: Promenade along the Garonne

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Garonne River. The scenic promenade is just a 15-minute walk from Jardin Public. Enjoy the sunset and the illuminated Pont de Pierre. Families can also indulge in some ice cream from one of the nearby vendors, a perfect treat to end the day.

This itinerary offers a blend of cultural immersion, delightful eats, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable family day out in Bordeaux! Be sure to carry a city map and check the opening times of attractions before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Grand Theatre

Why Visit?

Welcome to a fun-packed day at the Grand Theatre, a historic gem perfect for families! Located in the heart of a vibrant city, the Grand Theatre is easily accessible by public transportation or car, with parking available nearby.

Morning: Arrival and Theatre Tour

Start your day with a morning tour of the Grand Theatre. Dive into its rich history, learning about its opening in the late 19th century and its role in the local arts scene. Kids will love hearing ghost stories and legends associated about the theatre. Tours usually start at 10 AM and last about an hour.

Lunch: Nearby Family-Friendly Dining

After the tour, grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant within walking distance from the theatre. Choose a spot with a kids" menu to keep everyone happy!

Afternoon: Workshop and Rehearsal Peek

Post-lunch, participate in a family workshop usually held at 2 PM. These interactive sessions might include costume design, stage makeup, or even a simple acting class, all tailored for young ones and parents alike. Occasionally, the theatre offers glimpses into actual rehearsals, where kids can see scenes being polished for upcoming performances.

Evening: Early Dinner and a Show

Cap off your day with an early dinner at a cozy eatery around the theatre district, followed by a family-friendly performance at the Grand Theatre. Whether it"s a classic fairy tale, a musical, or a modern play, there"s always something exciting on the bill that appeals to both kids and adults.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that the Grand Theatre was once closed for nearly a decade in the 20th century and was saved from demolition by local arts enthusiasts?

With its mix of educational and fun activities, visiting the Grand Theatre offers an enriching cultural experience for the whole family. Enjoy your adventure in the world of arts!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Port of the Moon (Port de la Lune)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to Bordeaux"s Port of the Moon, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its crescent shape along the Garonne River. Here"s a family-friendly itinerary to make the most out of your visit!

Morning: Explore La Cité du Vin

Start your day at La Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to the world of wine, offering engaging exhibits suitable for all ages. Easily accessible by tram (Line B) to the La Cité du Vin stop, this architectural marvel resembles a swirling wine glass. Delve into sensory experiences and finish with panoramic views of the city at the Belvedere, where you can enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage for the kids.

Lunch: Picnic at Parc aux Angéliques

Just a 10-minute walk from La Cité du Vin, grab a picnic from local markets and head to Parc aux Angéliques. This riverside park offers sprawling green spaces perfect for a family picnic with views across to the historic façades of the Port of the Moon.

Afternoon: Discover Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror

Take the tram back towards the city center to Place de la Bourse, an iconic symbol of Bordeaux"s elegance. Just in front of it is the Water Mirror, the world"s largest reflecting pool, providing delightful fun for kids to splash around and cool off. The site demonstrates an extraordinary blend of classic French architecture with modern urban design.

Evening: Stroll along the Quays

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverfront. The pedestrian-friendly promenades are lined with shops and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the family-friendly riverside restaurants, savoring local delicacies while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Bordeaux by night.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of educational enrichment, leisure, and scenic beauty, ensuring an unforgettable visit to the Port of the Moon for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Basilica of St. Michael (Basilique St. Michel)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Basilica of St. Michael

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Basilica of St. Michael

Start your day at the heart of Bordeaux by visiting the majestic Basilica of St. Michael. Located at Place Meynard, it’s easily accessible by tram - take Line C to Saint-Michel stop. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, this gothic masterpiece is not only a visual treat but also a historic gem. Fun fact for the kids: keep an eye out for the basilica"s famous bell tower, separate from the main building, which stands at 114 meters tall making it one of the tallest in France!

Late Morning: Climb the Bell Tower

For a small fee, your family can climb the 243 steps of the bell tower. It"s a great way to challenge the kids and be rewarded with breathtaking views of Bordeaux. The climb is best suited for children above 5 due to the steep steps.

Lunch: Picnic at Parc des Sports Saint-Michel

Just a short walk from the basilica, enjoy a relaxing family picnic at Parc des Sports Saint-Michel. Pick up fresh local treats from nearby Marché des Capucins (open every day except Monday), known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food stalls.

Afternoon: Stroll Along the River

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Garonne River. The scenic paths are perfect for a family walk and there are plenty of spots for children to play.

Late Afternoon: Cap Sciences

End your day with a visit to Cap Sciences, where curious minds can engage with interactive exhibits about science and technology. It"s a short tram ride away – take Line C towards Parc des Expositions/Stade Matmut-Atlantique, and get off at the Cap Sciences stop.

This itinerary blends historical exploration with fun and relaxation, ensuring a memorable family day out in Bordeaux!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.