Gironde

Overview

Gironde is located in the southwest of France, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. The department takes its name from the Gironde estuary, which begins downstream from Bordeaux. With nearly 10,000 km², it is the largest department in metropolitan France.

Key Facts

• Type of place: department.

• Location: in the southwest, facing the Atlantic, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

• Department code: 33.

• Bordering departments: Charente-Maritime, Dordogne, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne.

• Prefecture: Bordeaux.

• Sub-prefectures: Arcachon, Blaye, Langon, Lesparre-Médoc, Libourne.

• Number of communes: 542.

• Population: 1,583,384 inhabitants (2017).

• Area: 9,975 km²

• Highest point: Samazeuil Hill (167 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 125 km.

• Highlights (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Culture ★★★/ ★★★★; Relaxation-holidays ★★★★

• Website: http://www.gironde-tourisme.fr

History of Gironde

Geography and Environment

Culture and Economy

What to See in Gironde

• What to See in Aquitaine and Gironde

The city of Bordeaux, the nearby vineyards, and especially the coast with its seaside resorts are the main attractions of the department. With around one million visitors each year, the Dune of Pyla is the most visited site in Gironde. Logically, the period from May to September is the most popular (75% of visitors), peaking in July-August (one in two visitors).

What to Do in Gironde

- Cycling: The department offers 700 km of cycle paths, including routes like the Vélodyssée, the Canal des Deux Mers, and the Scandibérique (see details).

- Beaches and lakes: Gironde has 125 km of beaches, as well as numerous lakes and ponds (Carcans, Cazaux, Lacanau, etc.) perfect for swimming and water activities (see details).

- Hiking: While not a top hiking destination, Gironde has several walking trails near the sea, in the countryside, through vineyards, and even some urban routes (see details).

- On the water: Sailing, canoeing, kayaking, *pinasse* boats, paddleboarding, and of course surfing in Lacanau and elsewhere (see details).

- From the sky: Gironde and the ocean seen from a hot-air balloon, microlight, paraglider, hang glider, parachute, or even a glider (see details).

Climate and Weather

Gironde has an oceanic climate with relatively mild winters and hot summers, especially inland. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, though it peaks between November and January, with stormy showers in summer. On the coast, the ocean’s influence softens winters and cools summers.

Sea Temperature Throughout the Year

Transport

Getting There

Getting Around

Accommodation

Food

Further Information