news from aquitaine - autumn 2010

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WINE TOURISM

2 Wine tourismChâteau life at Domaine Rollan de By

Stay in style at GuîtresWine tourism by horse

3 Sustainable tourismFramissima holiday village in Soustons

Eden Park, a hotel that feels like homeLa Petite Couronne obtain the European eco-label

4 Business tourismBordeaux’s Place de la Bourse

The Voûtes des ChartronsChâteau La Chèze in Floirac

Cap Landes at Tartas

5 GastronomyChâteau Saint-Geniès, a gourmet port of call

5 Cookery lessonsGastronomy, luxury and terroir

from France’s Impressions

5 ThalassotherapyThe spa of the Grand Hôtel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

6 AccommodationHôtel La Co(o)rniche on Pyla-Plage

La Villa d’O, a charming hotelLe Prieuré guest house at the Château de Biron

Clos Norma, opera-themed guest roomsA contemporary stopover at Hossegor’s Hôtel 202

Recharge your batteries at Simply Canvas

8 Biarritz: your own special address

20/20 for Hôtel 7BHôtel Mercure Le Président Biarritz Centre

Enjoy the exceptional location of Le BellevueLe Biarritz, the wellbeing option

Discover the Biarritz spirit at Hôtel WindsorLe Gamaritz, a colourful hotel

An Art-deco break at Le Café de Paris

10 EventsPistoletto, takes centre stage at Evento 2011

10 TransportA shuttle service between Biarritz and Pau

Billi, Bordeaux illico budget terminalPau-Rome, a new opening in the South-East

10 Onlinewww.leteich-tourisme.com

www.meretgolf.com

11 PublicationsVineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’s guide

By bike in Aquitaine, a tourist leaflet on the moveA press kit to rediscover the major attractions

12 Tool boxhttp://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr

3000 photos available to professionals

12 NewThe new brand name of the CRTA

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AQUITAINE TOURIST BOARDNEWSLETTER INFORMATION

SUMMARYNEWS

fromAQUITAINE

1 Wine and Spirit Education Trust www.wset.co.uk

Wine tasting lessons and accommodationat Château Haut-GarrigueOn an organically-farmed, biodynamic vineyard, Caroline Feely, a WSET1 accredited trainer andwinemaker at Château Haut-Garrigue in Purple Périgord, is offering wine tasting courses of two orfour hours, delivered by her wine tourism company, French Wine Adventures, in French or English.Wine tasting lessons for beginners and introductions to the wines of Dordogne and the crus ofHaut-Garrigue (€15 per person for two hours) can be accompanied by a “wine and foodmatching” meal (€25 per person) or a trip involving a walk and an aperitif (€10 per adult, €5 forchildren).

A longer and more advanced course is also available with two day packages on offer:• The “Winemaker for a Day” package (€150 per person) includes a wine tasting course,lunch and the creation of a unique blend of wine. • The “Wine Discovery” workshop is an extended introductory course and is availablefor €99 per person.

These days can be followed by a stay in the gîte at Château Haut-Garrigue, known as The GrapeEscape.With the capacity to accommodate four people, it is situated at the heart of the vineyardsoffering an uninterrupted view from the terrace. Hire of the gîte starts at €350 per week in low season.

� Information and bookings French Wine AdventuresChâteau Haut Garrigue24240 SaussignacTel: +33 553 227 271Mobile: +33 635 933 188www.frenchwineadventures.comcaroline@ frenchwineadventures.com

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Stay in style at GuîtresSometimes, we all want to treat ourselves to a special break and Venised’Astacus is one of those extraordinary places where you can savour timestanding still in the vineyards of the Libourne and Saint-Emilion region.Five guest rooms and floating suites are available, all equipped with alake side and bank side terrace in a setting of pure romance at the

heart of nature. The scene is made complete with the contemporarydecor of the rooms, and the honey and fruit jam made on the estateand served at breakfast.

Situated just 30 minutes from Bordeaux and 10 minutes from Saint-Émilion, the 12 hectares of woods and meadows at Venise d’Astacus lendthemselves to walks, bike rides or even a rowing boat trip on the lake,which you are free to enjoy swimming in at your leisure when you’re notenjoying a trip to the spa-sauna-solarium to make your stay complete.

On the other side of the lake, the Château d’Astacus produces Bordeauxred wine which you can discover during a wine tasting session. Severalactivities are offered during the courses including an introduction towinemaking trades, botanical discovery and a cookery course. Room prices start at €125 in low season.� Information and bookings Venise d’AstacusChamp de Gougeon33 910 SablonsTel: +33 688 542 134http://[email protected]

Château life at Domaine Rollan de ByThe 4-star Hôtel Rollan de By is housed in an 18th century charterhouseat the heart of the Médoc vines of Domaine Rollan de By and just astone’s throw from the Gironde estuary. The estate owner, Jean Guyon,has used his talent as a former interior designer to give the place a

calm, luxurious appearance. The six spacious rooms are decorated intaupe and pearl grey colours, with separate bathrooms and four-posterbeds to reinforce the romantic, plush ambiance of the hotel.

After breakfast, the hotel organises a daily tasting session of wines ofthe Médoc and the Domaines Rollan de By, which guests are invited toattend at 11.30am. The area surrounding the hotel offers a number oftourist attractions, and a service offering tours of neighbouringchâteaux and wineries is available on request.

The organisation of seminars with capacity for 80 people and the hireof the hotel for private functions are both possible.Rooms for two people start at €150 with breakfast included. � Information and bookings

Hôtel Rollan de By ****3 Route du Haut Condissas33340 BégadanTel: +33 556 412 775Fax: +33 556 413 782http://[email protected]

pro.tourisme-aquitaine.frNEWS from AQUITAINE

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Bruno Delmas, formerly of Vinexpo, is a leading wine expert and horselover. He recently created BD Tours, an agency which organises custo-mised wine tourism tours and breaks; on foot or by horse, guided orunguided, but always in the company of a wine professional. BD Tourswill organise itineraries, daily activities, châteaux visits, accommoda-tion, meals and of course, transport, in accordance with the preferredmode of transport, and wishes and budget of each client. The organisation also offers a whole range of ways to discover thewine region by horse or horse-drawn carriage, lasting from one tofive days.This is an organisation that caters for all occasions and client types– both beginners and those with experience, and horse riders andwalkers alike.� Information and bookings BD Tours in Naujan-et-Postiac (33).Tel: + 33 960 056 210Fax: + 33 557 748 105www.bdtours.fr [email protected]

Wine tourism by horse

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AUTOMN 2010

Eden Park, a hotel that feels like homeMarketed as a new-generation hotel, Pau’s Eden Park is a 3-star esta-blishment which capitalises on independence and ecology. A contemporary showpiece, the hotel oozes a warm and friendlyatmosphere which reflects the owners’ desire to create a hotel that“feels like home”. To offer a greater level of independence, the roomsare all directly accessible without going through reception. In addition to its Tourism and Handicap label (catering for all four typesof handicap), the hotel also adopts an environmentally friendly approach.Systematic insulation is ensured through double glazing, automatic lightswitches, an air-to-air heat pump heating system, and above all, the supplyof hot water courtesy of 40 m2 of solar panels, are just some examplesof the action carried out to help reduce CO2 emissions.

The hotel offers 26 rooms, each measuring 25 m2 and fitted with aprivate terrace, exceptionally comfortable bedding and a view of theswimming pool or hotel grounds. Queen, twin and family rooms canaccommodate between one and four people. For medium and longstays, a kitchenette is also available. Double rooms start at €89 per night, excluding breakfast.

� Information and bookings Hôtel Eden Park ***Route de Tarbes – 2 rue de l’Aubisque64320 BizanosTel: +33 559 406 [email protected]

Framissima holiday village NA-TU-RESituated to the south of the Landes forest, Soustons offers bothpeaceful lakesides and vast ocean beaches. The tour operator, Fram, haschosen this unspoilt natural environment as the setting for its thirdFrench holiday village, the first to be awarded the “Nature” label.

Not only does Framissima Nature Soustons boast a 14-hectare green site,but the holiday village also aims to actively co-operate with environmen-tally practices, through the choice of building materials, power suppliedby solar energy, rule of no cars on site, use of rain water recovery… Thetour operator has given priority to the environment, space (150 m2 ofland per pitch) and privacy by avoiding placing pitches in rows.

There is a whole host of activities and facilities available on site: enter-tainment in the hall, a swimming pool and aquatic centre with lagoon…For children, there is something for all ages; the kids club is free for 4-17 year olds during the school holidays. In terms of activities available outside the site, the surroundingnetwork of cycle tracks offers 35 km available for cycling, with bikesavailable to hire on site. For those who prefer water-based activities,the lake and beach provide plenty of options.

Hire of accommodation only starts at €245 for seven days in low season.

� Information and bookings Framissima Nature Soustons63 avenue du Port d’Albret40140 SoustonsTel: +33 826 463 727 (0,15 €/min)www.fram.fr

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM[ ]

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La Petite Couronne is the 15th Aquitaine hotel to obtain the European eco-label

Since they began managing Hôtel La Petite Couronne in July 2009, Iwanand Nancy have worked to ensure the accommodation they offer isenvironmentally friendly and respectful to nature. Their hard workwas rewarded in April 2010 with a European eco-label accredited byAFNOR, recognised widely in the tourism field. The certification was awarded in response to the extensive actiontaken to reduce the ecological footprint of the hotel:

• The use of energy-saving light bulbs• The production of hot water using solar panels

• The furnishing of rooms with soya fibre mattresses and bamboo cotton coverings

• The construction of structures using wood • The preservation of green spaces • The creation of a private vegetable garden• The implementation of a “Dutchtub” ecological spa

The 10 rooms on the ground and first floor all benefit from luxuriousyet sustainable comfort, in a calm and peaceful rural environment. Inthe surrounding area, there is no shortage of activities and the hotelweb site offers a detailed schedule of forthcoming events as well asideas for places to visit.Single rooms start at €75 per night in low season and double roomsstart at €79 with breakfast included.

� Information and bookings Hôtellerie La Petite Couronne - Route d’Amou40700 Saint Cricq ChalosseTel: +33 558 793 [email protected]

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BUSINESS TOURISM[ ]Bordeaux’s Place de la BourseSituated on the quays, the reception areas ofthe Palais de la Bourse, an architecturalensemble symbolic of Bordeaux constructedby the architect, Jacques Gabriel, have beenentirely redeveloped. Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse offers 2,400 m2

devoted to the hosting of events at the heart ofthe city. There are four different areas available: • Espace Gabriel contains a lecture hall withcapacity for 200 people and two meetingrooms offering a total surface area of 250 m2, • Espace Garonne offers four meeting roomscombined with three lounge areas for breaksand receptions, all contained within 260 m2,• Espace Tourny comprises seven formalreception rooms situated in succession overa total surface area of 426 m2, decorated

and furnished with 19th century furniture,• Espace Bourse is a 1,500 m2 multi-purposearea built around the Hall de la Bourse, idealfor multiple functions (trade fairs, galaevenings, conferences…) and notably compri-

sing a large reception hall able to accommo-date up to 600 people. Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse is located online C of the tramway, directly accessible fromthe train station and above a pay-and-displaycar park offering 1,600 spaces.These new reception facilities meet technolo-gical requirements in terms of event manage-ment, while offering a prestigious, historicalsetting for business tourism events.� Information and bookings Bordeaux Place de la Bourse – Reception andEvents department12 place de la Bourse33076 Bordeaux CedexTel: +33 556 795 095Fax: +33 556 486 218 [email protected]

The Voûtes des Chartrons for professional meetingsSymbolic of the great era of Bordeaux winetrade, the Voûtes des Chartrons owes its refur-bishment to two people who were passionateabout the place, Natacha and AlexandreDost-Lillet; Natacha was once a gallery ownerand Alexandre was a broker in Bordeaux forover 20 years. In this former barrel cellar, which is one of theoldest in Bordeaux, Natacha and Alexandrehave created an area offering the possibility tocater for countless events: conferences, semi-nars, business meals, exhibitions, tastingsessions, cocktail parties…

The long, vaulted building is a skilful fusion oftraditional and contemporary influences. On

the cut stone walls, steel counters and orangewalls have been added, creating a unique,warm area, despite the coolness of the cellar,which is ideal for storing wine. Bordeaux crusclassés typical of their appellation are alsodisplayed in each alcove, often accompaniedby works of art.

With the capacity to cater for 300 people, theVoûtes des Chartrons is a unique place situatedin the heart of Bordeaux, close to thetramway and the quayside car park.

� Information and bookings Voûtes des Chartrons in Bordeaux (33)[email protected]

Customised services atChâteau La Chèze in FloiracAn architectural jewel from the late 19th

century, Château de la Chèze has been entirelyrenovated by the Pragmaty Events agency, tocreate a functional, user-friendly area forcompanies.

Four meeting rooms with views of thewooded grounds, a restaurant with capacityto seat 100 and 14 guest rooms make up thefull offering, which aims to make life simple forguests and simplify the organisation of profes-sional events.

The agency has set up three packs for gueststo choose from. Pack A comprises hire of the

hall on a semi-residential or residential basis,while pack B places emphasis on social activi-ties and original workshops for guests torelax while developing their skills. Finally, packC offers support and guidance to helpcompanies to respond to a variety of issues. Château de La Chèze is situated just fiveminutes from the ring road and 10 minutesfrom Bordeaux train station, by car. � Information and bookings Château La Chèze in Floirac (33)Tel: +33 683 888 143www.pragmaty-events.com [email protected]

Situated just 30 kilometres from Dax andMont-de-Marsan in the heart of the départe-ment of Landes, Cap Landes offers a widerange of services: catering for professionaltraining, discovery classes, and even sportsor community breaks…The buildings have recently been fitted withthe necessary technology and facilitiesneeded to ensure professional events runsmoothly. With four wings able to accom-modate up to 10 people each, Cap Landesalso places emphasis on conviviality and thedevelopment of social links between

colleagues. In terms of catering, there issomething for all tastes, from pastry snacksto regional meals and healthy menus.

By capitalising on high-quality services andstrong regional elements, such as pine treesfor the construction of buildings, andregional gastronomy for the elaboration ofmenus, Cap Landes is integrated into thelandscape and has earned an excellent repu-tation with countless companies. � Information and bookings Cap Landes à Tartas (40)Tel: +33 558 738 852Fax: +33 558 735 [email protected]

Cap Landes, nature’s version of business tourism

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AUTOMN 2010

GASTRONOMY[

The new tour combininggastronomy, luxury and terroir,from France’s ImpressionsThe Dordogne-based travel agency, France’sImpressions, is launching a new “luxury andgastronomy’’ break in Aquitaine.The innovative and creative eight-night/nine-day programme is available for groups of eightto twelve people. Amongst friends or family, youwill share cookery lessons with Michelin-starred and/or famous chefs, enjoy meals inrenowned restaurants including two Michelin-starred establishments featured in the Michelinguide, experience several excursions todiscover and admire the nature and treasuresof the region (a visit to the gardens of Eyrignac,a truffle farm, a winemaking château…) andspend the night in luxury accommodation inBordeaux and Dordogne, at Le Prieuré at theChâteau de Biron. Built over half a century agoas a home for the canon priests, Le Prieuré nowoffers prestigious guest rooms and table d’hôtes. The tour’s four cookery lessons last for threehours and take place in Le Prieuré, in a kitchenthat was entirely renovated in 2009. Recipesvary according to the season, in order to take

full advantage of regional produce. During thelessons, which are on offer to both beginnersand experienced gourmets, a select group ofchefs will share their secrets and introduceparticipants to the art of cookery in afriendly, interactive environment. The tour combines tourism with gastronomy

by offering the opportunity to discover theterroirs of Dordogne and Aquitaine, in bothFrench and English.Tours have been scheduled for six dates: 12th

to 20th November 2010, 11th to 19th

February 2011, 18th to 26th March 2011, 8th

to 16th April 2011, 6th to 14th May 2011 and10th to 18th June 2011.Guests stay in double rooms and pay€3,190/person including accommodation in aluxury guest house and a 5-star hotel, all meals(including wine) excluding one lunch and onedinner, four cookery lessons with famous chefsand/or Michelin-starred chefs (all bilingual inFrench and English), travel to surroundingareas, tours and entrance fees and the servicesof a bilingual guide (French and English).A short version of the gastronomic tour (3days/2 nights) is also available at Le Prieuré inBiron.� Information and bookings France’s ImpressionsNotre-Dame24540 BironTel: +33 553 232 441www.voyages-france-impressions.comcontact@voyages-france-impressions.com

Château Saint-Geniès, a gourmet port of call in Dordogne Situated approximately fifty kilometres fromPérigueux and close to Sarlat, PierreChaminade and Pascale Balducci have entirelyrefurbished the Château de Saint-Geniès, ahistorical monument dating back to the 13th

century, in order to create a gastronomicrestaurant and several guest rooms.In terms of cuisine, in addition to the high stan-dard of quality of the produce, the emphasishas been placed on expertise: the chef, PierreMorat, and several members of the team have

previously worked with Alain Ducasse. Thecuisine is creative and characterful, highligh-ting certified regional produce and served inan Italian style. You are sure to be spoilt for

choice! The lunchtime menu (starter + maincourse) is priced at €17.90 and the winecellar is open to the public: all are welcome tohead downstairs and select a bottle of wine,with prices starting from €16.90. Guest rooms start at €90 per night, and areavailable in July and August. Annual closure is from January to March.

� Information and bookings Le restaurant du ChâteauLe Bourg24590 Saint-Geniès Tel: +33 553 283 677www.restaurantduchateau.com

COOKERY LESSONS[ ]

THALASSOTHERAPY[ ]The Loreamar Thalasso Spa at the 5-star GrandHôtel in Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a unique placedevoted to wellbeing. With a view of theAtlantic and decor combining wood withpebbles, the spa is launching a new treatment:Beauté anti-âge. This 5-day break combiningluxury, health and relaxation is based on theconcept of ageing prevention due to lifestyle.

Over the five days, guests will alternate theirtime between physical activity, relaxation(massage from around the world, circulatory

massage…) and treatments (lift 6 facial, facespray and mask, wrap…). Price: €1,400 per person excluding accom-modation.� Information and bookings Loreamar Thalasso Spa Grand Hôtel43, boulevard Thiers64500 Saint-Jean-de-LuzTel: +33 559 263 536Fax: +33 559 519 [email protected]

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A fashionable treatment at the spa of the Grand Hôtelin Saint-Jean-de-Luz

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In spring 2010 at Le Pyla in the Bay of Arcachon, Hôtel La Corniche wasreborn under the leadership of the famous designer, Philippe Starck,and William Téchoueyres, former national rugby player and currentowner of the hotel.The establishment benefits from an exceptional location on the slopeof the Dune of Pilat at the heart of the pine forest, with views of theBay of Arcachon, the Banc d’Arguin and the Atlantic ocean.

Nestled amongst the pine trees, the former Neo-Basque oyster farmcontains 12 rooms, each measuring at least 28 m2 with balconies orterraces, and a legendary panoramic terrace which now extends ontoan infinity pool and a restaurant/bar with an open kitchen boastingchefs of renown. An intimate atmosphere prevails in the secure, quiet,luxury rooms, like in a holiday home that you return to with pleasurefor the objects you have left there. In the restaurant, you will love thegenuine cuisine which gives pride of place to high-quality produce. By preserving the authenticity and history of the establishment whilstapplying a touch of modernism and prestige, La Corniche, now knownas Co(o)rniche, has returned to its former glory.Guest rooms start at €190 per night in low season, prices valid until31 May 2011. Breakfast is priced between €12 and €19 euros accor-ding to the option chosen.� Information and bookings Hôtel La Co(o)rniche46 boulevard Louis Gaume33115 Pyla sur MerTel: +33 556 227 211Fax: +33 556 227 [email protected]

Situated in Saint-Loubès, in the Libournais region, La Villa d’O stands onthe heights of the winegrowing countryside, a charming hotel housedin a beautiful manor house dating back to 1850, the Château Bellevue.The rooms are distributed between the château and the former winecellars. Each of the rooms bears a name containing the letter Ô, and isdecorated in keeping with an artist’s painting. The period roses and

cornices mingle with contemporary colours which correspond tothose of the painting in each room.

In terms of cuisine, La Villa d’O is all about home-made food, withMaman jams served at breakfast and table d’hôtes produced by twoprofessional chefs who work using fresh produce.

La Villa d’O offers half-board accommodation and meal packages andcan also cater for small events (capacity for 15 people).

The three-hectare grounds of the site lend themselves to walks, while thefitness and spa areas (sauna and whirlpool baths) and heated outdoorswimming pool provide relaxation. In the surrounding area, hiking andcycling excursions will enable you to discover the Libournais wine region.

Double rooms start from €120 in low season, breakfast not included.� Information and bookings Hôtel La Villa d’O - Château Bellevue54 chemin de Terrefort33450 Saint-LoubèsTel: +33 556 063 [email protected]

[ ]ACCOMMODATION

Charming, romantic, unusual…

La Villa d’O, a charming hotel in the Gironde countryside

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Philippe Stark and William Téchoueyres reinvent Hôtel La Co(o)rniche on Pyla-Plage

Open from April to September, the five large guest rooms at LePrieuré offer a warm and comfortable reception and the chance tostay in a protected historical building. Decorated with respect for the original features, Le Prieuré highlightsobjects which bear witness to life in a diffe-rent era without compromising on comfort,both inside and outside the building. Exposedbeams, natural colours, antique furniture andsilky fabrics turn the guest rooms into warmand cosy spaces.An independent apartment is also availablefor hire by the night, or by the week fromSaturday to Saturday.Between the months of April and July and

September and November, table d’hôtes is available for dinner, withprices starting at €28 per person with wine included. The regionalcuisine is always home-made and showcases regional produce in afriendly atmosphere. Weather permitting, supper is served in the

garden. Rooms start at €120 in low season for twopeople with breakfast included, and €140euros in high season.� Information and bookings Le Prieuré of the Château de Biron in Biron (24)Tel: +33 553 619 303Mobile: +33 684 313 838www.leprieurebiron.com [email protected]

Le Prieuré guest house at the Château de Biron, an authentic and prestigious place to stay

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The last dwelling place of Pope Clement V, Uzeste is a village situatedin the Landes of Gascony, boasting a number of treasures: a collegiatechurch from the 12th and 13th centuries boasting Gothic architecture,a wash house, a famous jazz festival launched by the modern-day “trou-badour”, Bernard Lubat, the Ciron River, famous for canoeing trips,and an opera-themed guest house.

Situated in the village facing the collegiate church, Lucie and EmmanuelFouquet have refurbished an ancient family house to create a guesthouse offering table d’hôtes: Clos Norma. The manor house opens ontowooded grounds which contain a bamboo garden on the side of thegarden and a swimming pool on the side of the courtyard. A sopranosinger, Lucie’s passion for opera led the couple to decorate each of thethree rooms (named Tosca, Alcina and Manon) with inspiration fromopera backdrops. The antique furniture and fittings go well with the monochromecolours and plush fabrics. For breakfast and table d’hôtes, your hosts will gladly welcome you inthe living room or the garden according to the temperature andweather conditions. Home cooking is served at the dining table and isprepared using home-made produce. Double rooms start from €80 with breakfast included. Table d’hôtesmeals: €25 , available by reservation on specific days only.� Information and bookings Clos Norma17 rue Faza33730 Uzeste Tel: +33 556 252 [email protected]

Clos Norma, opera-themed guest rooms

Two experienced travellers, Santi and Sandra, have created SimplyCanvas, a unique five-hectare site situated at the heart of FrenchTuscany in Lot-et-Garonne. Located at the border of Dordogne inSaint-Jean-de-Duras, six 35 m2 safari tents and a holiday home are avai-lable for travellers in search of exchange, tranquility and spirituality. The clean, natural tents benefit from a veranda, a private externalbathroom, modern comforts and solar electricity. Environmentally-friendly practices are in operation throughout the site, with prioritygiven to composting, water from a well and organic produce. In addition to the tents, there is a holiday home divided to form twoseparate gîtes with a private garden; perfect for a stay with friendsor as a set of two families.The table d’hôtes available is enriched by the voyages of Santi andSandra, offering meals created using local organic produce.

There are countless activities available in the surrounding area: visitsto “bastide” towns, châteaux, country markets… On site, you canenjoy the site grounds, the fruit trees and the swimming pool or evenget involved with daily life in the organic vegetable garden and kitchen.Canvas tents for four people start from €100 per day and €560 perweek in low season, with breakfast included. Minimum stay of threenights in low season and one week in July and August. Open fromMay to October.

Themed stays (romance, kids, wellbeing…) are also organised throu-ghout the year; see the web site for further information.

� Information and bookings Simply Canvas - Lieu-dit Bonac47120 St Jean de DurasTel: +33 553 889 [email protected]

Situated in Hossegor centre just 50 metres from the famous golfcourse designed by J. Morisson in 1930, the 3-star, Art deco-inspired

Hôtel 202 offers 22 pleasant air-conditioned rooms measuring 25 m2

and two suites measuring 50 m2, all with balconies, Internet access andflat-screen televisions. The rooms are mainly white with touches of mocha and havebathrooms fitted with an independent shower and bath tub. The hotelalso has underground parking, a heated swimming pool, a sauna, and abar-lounge, offering a comfortable, “designer” atmosphere with a touchof “rock ‘n’ roll”. With a decor providing ambiances of an Americandance hall, countless varieties of tea and cocktails can be sampledwhilst enjoying the view overlooking the outdoor swimming pool. Rooms start from €100 in low season, with breakfast included.� Information and bookings Hôtel 20 ***202 Avenue du Golf40150 HossegorTel: +33 558 432 [email protected]

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Recharge your batteries in a safari tent at Simply Canvas

A contemporary stopover at Hossegor’s Hôtel 202

AUTOMN 2010

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ACCOMMODATION[ ]Biarritz: your own special address book

In this issue, the focus is on Biarritz, “beach of kings and queen of beaches”. In the city of Biarritz, whale huntershave been replaced by surfers, photographers and Latin American writers. Individual festivals follow on one fromthe other, countless delicacies compete for your taste buds’ attention and the sea is always sublime.Here we propose seven hotels for discovering the city of Biarritz.

20/20 for Hôtel 7B7B is a 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Biarritz, just a couple ofminutes on foot from the covered market and the Grande Plage. It isan establishment which feels like a house, with common areas topromote sociability and conviviality. The hotel follows the trend of

“boutique hotels”, offering an intimate atmosphere and a personalisedservice, notably, with the offer of well-informed tourism advice.The contemporary decor emphasises colour, design and sport fromthe 1960’s, notably the automobile, with eye-catching photos printedon the lampshades. The 12 guest rooms benefit from free access to thelatest technology. For families, it is possible to create a suite for fivepeople by joining a Deluxe room with a Superieur room to obtain alarge 45 m2 area with a bath tub, shower, two dressing rooms and twoWC’s. The tree-lined patio, lounge-living room and table d’hôtes allow you torecharge your batteries in communal areas. Double rooms start at €120 per night in low season. Breakfast ispriced at €14 per person.

� Information and bookings Hôtel 7B ***7 Rue de Gascogne64200 BiarritzTel: +33 559 500 [email protected]

Hôtel Bellevue suits its name well. Situated on the sea front, acrossfrom one of Biarritz’s surfing hot spots, the Grande Plage, and at theheart of the city centre, just a stone’s throw from the casino and theshops, this 2-star hotel offers direct access to the beach and an unin-terrupted view.

Entirely renovated in 2010, the hotel successfullycombines ancient charm with modern simplicity.The 24 refined, guest rooms each have a sepa-rate bathroom. The rooms give priority towoodland and charcoal grey tones and combinea variety of materials to produce a calm atmos-phere. The rooms offer comfort and are all fittedwith televisions and telephones.

The location of the hotel, the reception and the quality of servicesmake Le Bellevue an establishment to remember, perfect for a breakcombining urban and coastal tourism. Prices start from €70 for a double room with a courtyard view in

mid-season and €90 for a double room with asea view. Prices do not include breakfast.� Information and bookings Hôtel Le Bellevue **5 avenue Edouard VII64200 BiarritzTel: +33 559 030 450Fax: +33 559 474 [email protected]

A youthful makeover for Hôtel MercureLe Président Biarritz Centre***The 3-star Hôtel Mercure re-opened its doors in July 2009 after sixmonths of renovation. Situated in Place Clémenceau, next to the Biarritzconference and entertainment centres and 100m from the GrandePlage, the hotel oozes a spirit of pop music, modernism and design, andoffers a pleasant panorama with an open view of the sea. The 69 rooms and eight junior suites benefit from full soundproofing,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, personal safes, mini bars and awelcome basket. The decor is minimalistic, with flashes of colour(fuchsia, green and brown) and a mix of soft and cosy materials. In terms of activities, the nearby shopping area and many museumsoffer just a glimpse of the many options for things to do.

The hotel also contains a meeting room with capacity for 10 peopleand all the latest technology, for the organisation of seminars or otherprofessional events.

Double rooms start at €121 per night in low season. Please note thatseveral promotions and package breaks are also available on line.

� Information and bookings Hôtel Mercure Le Président Biarritz Centre *** 18 Place Clémenceau 64600 BiarritzTel: +33 559 246 [email protected]

Enjoy the exceptional location of Le Bellevue

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Renovated in 2008 to offer a seasideambiance, the 49 rooms of this hotel areshared between two floors and combinewarm woodland tones with contemporaryfurniture. Some also offer views of the sea orthe Pyrenean mountain range.The hotel’s Le Ponton restaurant is open allyear round, catering for casual and half-boardclients in a plush setting, with one of the finestviews along the Basque coast, the bay ofBiarritz. The fresh, unpretentious cuisinechanges according to the season, and givespride of place to sea food and Basque gastro-nomy.

In addition to the conveniences and servicesoffered by a 3-star hotel, Le Biarritz has theadvantage of offering free access to premium

fitness, relaxation and wellbeing areas, as wellas the opportunity for hotel guests to takeadvantage of special rates in the Thalmarthalassotherapy centre, located just threeminutes from the hotel.Double rooms start from €124 per night inlow season. The hotel can also cater forprofessional events.� Information and bookings Hôtel Le Biarritz ***30 avenue de la Milady64200 BiarritzTel: +33 825 126 464 (€0.15/min)www.biarritz-thalasso.com/hotel-le-biarritz

The 3-star Hôtel Windsor is situated on theGrande Plage opposite the Casino de Biarritz.Benefiting from an exceptional location facingthe ocean and wonderful views, the establish-ment offers 48 rooms and junior suites.

With minimalistic and designer decor, thisformer town house combines charm, sophis-tication and modernism.

The hotel’s Le Galion restaurant is a pleasantplace to dine, offering the chance to samplelocal flavours whilst enjoying a typical Biarritzactivity - relaxing on the terrace. If you wantto sip a cocktail, head to Le Bleu Café barwhich offers a beautiful view of the beach

from its terrace. The hotel also offers themedpackage options (golf, thalassotherapy,romantic breaks…) and can organise custo-mised breaks according to individual require-

ments. Being aware of environmental protec-tion, a more ecological world and high-qualityservices, Hôtel Windsor has obtained theEuropean Eco-label as well as HotelCert andQualité Tourisme certifications.In low season, double rooms start at €70 androoms with a sea view start at €120.� Information and bookings Hôtel Windsor ***Grande Plage64200 BiarritzTel: +33 559 240 852Fax: +33 559 249 [email protected]

Entirely renovated in 2008 and 2009, the decor of Le Café de Paris islargely inspired by the ocean liner, SS Normandie, a masterpiece ofFrench decorative art from the 1920’s. The 4-star hotel comprises 19 rooms withsea views, shared between four floors. Thedecor plays on a contrast between warm andcold mineral tones while a painting by theBasque artist, Michel Hacala, brings a strikingtouch of colour to each room.

The gourmet dining table of the premiumbrasserie-style Le Café de Paris restaurant willtake you on a gourmet journey through theGascony region with a number of infiltra-

tions from Spain and beyond. The terrace bar offers a premiumviewing point from which to admire the sea views.

Double rooms start at €230 euros per nightin low season. Please note that several promotions areavailable online.� Information and bookings Hôtel Le Café de Paris ****5 place Bellevue64200 BiarritzTel: + 33 559 241 953Fax: +33 559 241 820http://[email protected]

Le Biarritz, the wellbeing option

Discover the Biarritz spirit at Hôtel Windsor

Le Gamaritz, a colourful hotel

An Art-deco break at Le Café de Paris

Situated in the ocean-side district of PortVieux, the 2-star Hôtel Le Gamaritz is a fun,modern, colourful haven of 12 rooms and twosuites.

Green, orange and blackcurrant are tastefullycombined to produce a refined decor. Withcontemporary furnishings, quality servicesand free Wi-Fi with a wireless access point,guests are free to come and go as they please,24 hours a day.

Breakfast takes the form of a buffet in theneighbouring restaurant, Le Caritz, owned bythe same owner, which offers an ocean viewfrom its panoramic terraces.

With a commitment to adopting an environ-mentally friendly approach with the objectiveof obtaining the European eco-label, Hôtel LeGamaritz constantly strives to improve its

ecological footprint and already uses auto-matic heating sensors and boasts an exem-plary waste management system… Two meeting rooms with the capacity for 12and 25 people respectively, are available forthe organisation of meetings.Double rooms start at €65 in low season. � Information and bookings Hôtel Le Gamaritz **5, perspective de la Côte des Basques64200 BiarritzTel: + 33 559 240 023Fax: + 33 559 242 [email protected]

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ONLINE[ ]

EVENTS[ ]The Italian artist, Pistoletto, takes centre stage at Evento 2011Launched in 2009 by the city of Bordeaux,Evento is an international event (which takesplace every other year) of multi-disciplinary,

contemporary, artistic creation whose centraltheme is the city itself.For the second event scheduled to take placein October 2011, the Italian artist, MichelangeloPistoletto, who received a Golden Lion awardat the Venice Biennale in 2003, is responsible forthe exhibition of an original project in partner-ship with artists invited to create works of artand invest in public space. A leading figure in international andEuropean contemporary art, Michelangelois a genre-breaking artist, originating fromthe Cittadelarte foundation, an up-and-coming laboratory responsible for bringing

art back to the heart of the “social fabric”. Given the success of the first event whichwelcomed just short of 380,000 visitors,combined with the outstanding creativity ofMichelangelo Pistoletto, Evento 2011 promisesto be a major hit.

� Press contactsBordeaux city hall: Nicolas Corne / Maryvonne FruauffTel: +33 556 102 046Fax: +33 556 102 [email protected] /[email protected]

A shuttle service between the airports of Biarritz and PauBiarritz Tourisme has created a shuttle servicebetween the airports of Biarritz and Pau.From now on, it is possible to land in Pau andtravel on to Biarritz, and vice versa, with yourluggage following you to your final destina-tion. An excellent idea for travelling withpeace of mind.

The shuttle service runs every day of theweek with three round trips a day. Bookingsare made online at www.aeroportexpress.comand payment is settled with the shuttleservice driver on the day of travel (€35single/€70 return per person).� Information and bookings Tel: +33 559 262 [email protected]

Billi, Bordeaux illico budget terminalBordeaux Airport has constructed an airterminal that is specifically devoted to passen-gers travelling with budget airlines. Known asBilli, the terminal offers a simplified service toenable rapid access to planes. Once passen-gers have checked in, they can access a diningarea where shops and duty free products areavailable.

For those in the know about the logic behindbudget airlines and in favour of more personalorganisation in exchange for low prices, theterminal will respond to all expectations. Forthose new to the idea, it might take a littlemore preparation, for example, rememberingto print out your tickets…� Information and bookings Bordeaux AirportTel: + 33 556 345 050www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr

Pau-Rome, a new opening inthe South-EastThe Hungarian airline, CityLine Swiss, will opena new service travelling from Pau-Rome viaMarseille on 20th September 2010.A return flight will operate once a day exclu-ding Saturdays.A return ticket should cost approximately €148to Rome and €99 for a Pau-Marseille flight.� Information and bookings Pau AirportTel: +33 5 593 333 300www.citylineswiss.com

First successful cyber-steps for www.leteich-tourisme.comThe most easterly town in the Bay of Arcachon, Le Teich is famous forits bird reserve, but also offers plenty of other tourist attractions asshown on the new tourist web site: www.leteich-tourisme.com.

The web site is a showcase and source of information for touristslooking for sea gastronomy and nature, notably with tours for disco-vering oyster-farming and the production of Aquitaine caviar. The idealweb site for family holidays in the tranquil heart of nature.

www.meretgolf.com, a friendly, multi-lingual web siteMer et Golf, who manage several 3 and 4-star tourist apartmentcomplexes in the region, have unveiled a new web site:www.meretgolf.com, available in five languages (French, English,German, Spanish and Portuguese). The multi-functional platform allowsusers to view descriptions of accommodation, order documentationand book online.

In addition, the “Recommendations” section gives details of promo-tions while the “Holiday ideas” section generates ideas for holidays inaccordance with a specified budget or activity. Clever, don’t you think?!

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Un nouveau regard sur les sites majeurs presents 12 unmissable sites in our region: Bordeaux, theDune of Pilat, the Vézère Valley the Ossau Valley, the Pyrenees... With our selections, regional wondersand original places to visit, this document allows you to discover or re-discover the treasures whichgive our region its excellent reputation, from a different angle.

This press kit is available in French, English and German and can be viewed online from the Extranetfor tourism professionals, http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr.

The aim of this document is to simplify access to wine-based tourism. It is not an exhaustiveguide but a brochure aiming to open the door to available options and arouse the reader’s inte-rest. The brochure complements our web site devoted to wine tourism in Aquitaine:www.oenoland.fr.

Through four sections entitled “Taste”, “Discover”, “Share” and “Entertainment”, this gene-rously illustrated brochure highlights the attractions of our region, the unique character of ourvineyards, the protected environment, the rich human and cultural heritage, the quality ofproduction and the major tourist sites associated with wine. Vineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’sguide also offers several practical ideas for places to visit and stay.

Vineyards of Aquitaine is published in French, English and German and can be downloadedfrom our web site, www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr, in the section entitled “Our brochures”.

[ ]Vineyards of Aquitaine, explorer’s guide

A press kit to rediscover the major attractions of the region

The Regional Tourist Board has updated and re-published itsbrochure devoted to cycling tourism: By bike in Aquitaine.A veritable gateway to cycling in the region, this document isessential for all enthusiasts. On one side, there is a map ofthe main cycle tracks, bike paths and multi-use trails inAquitaine, illustrated with our selections. On the other side,you will find ideas for circuits, news concerning turnkeycycling breaks, and all the necessary practical informationand contacts for planning a trip.

15,000 copies of By bike in Aquitaine have been publi-shed and the new version is available in three languages:French, English and Dutch, and is downloadable from ourweb site, www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr, along with all ourother brochures.

By bike in Aquitaine, a tourist leaflet on the move

PUBLICATIONS


3000 photos of Aquitaine available to professionalsThe online image library of Aquitaine Regional Tourist Board contains3,000 images available to tourism professionals, tour operators, travelagencies and journalists, which can be used to illustrate booklets andarticles promoting Aquitaine.

Access to the image library is limited and subject to validation from anadministrator.

To obtain an access code, please send an e-mail to Chloé Kiner,Manager of the Public Relations department at Aquitaine RegionalTourist Board ([email protected]). Your e-mail shouldoutline your reasoning, your requirements and how the requestedimages will be used.

Image library account holders can access all images (whose rights maybe passed to third parties), perform an image search using key wordsand add products to a shopping basket which can be saved and down-loaded.

To access the web site, visit: http://photodoc.tourisme-aquitaine.fr.

http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr: an unmissable web site http://pro.tourisme-aquitaine.fr is an information space reservedfor tourism professionals and an essential site for organising travel inAquitaine.

The site displays the region’s tourist offering (ideas for circuits, unmis-sable attractions, themed tourist information, group offers andproducts, conference centres), an up-to-date, detailed list of Aquitaineprofessionals able to assist with the organisation of stays in the region(receiving agencies, bus operators, tourist guides, public tourism orga-nisations) and the mission and services of the Regional Tourist Board(image library, observatory…).

Accommodation, restaurants, tours, leisure and a schedule of eventsare also accessible from the platform.


Comité Régionalde Tourisme d’Aquitaine

Cité Mondiale23, parvis des Chartrons33074 Bordeaux Cedex

Tel. +33(0)5 56 01 70 00Fax +33(0)5 56 01 70 07

[email protected]

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NEW[ ]The new brand name of the CRTAIn order to keep pace with the development of graphic codes and consumer behaviour,the CRTA is aiming to review its graphic charter and create a strong brand name.

Over the course of six months, various factors, including an in-depth benchmark of theregion, a study of competition and targets, and various test phases (both internal andexternal) have been taken into consideration in order to create a meaningful logo andgraphic charter.

The name and baseline which were eventually selected draw on the conclusions of eachstage of consideration and constitute the heart of the new visual identity of the CRTA. Thenew brand name, l’Aquitaine votre Sud-Ouest sur-mesure, will accompany the CRTA inall communication and promotional activity.


news from aquitaine - autumn 2010

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