Eco-responsible tourism in Gironde and around Bordeaux

Eco-friendly tourism is a topic that is increasingly attracting visitors. It's true that environmental concerns are very strong and that long-distance travel significantly increases our carbon footprint. To address this, several solutions are available. Slow tourism, which is based on the principle of taking your time and appreciating the simple things in life while on vacation. Micro-tourism or micro-adventures, for getting away from it all while staying close to home. But there are many other responsible practices you can implement during your holidays… Discover responsible and sustainable tourism in Bordeaux and the Gironde region!

Slow tourism or micro-tourism

What is slow tourism ? Literally, it's " slow travel "... You settle down in a nice place, rest, and relax. You use sustainable modes of transport, travel slowly, and stop to admire the scenery. In short, you'll take advantage of your vacation to slow down!

Microtourism encompasses several concepts, with the basic principle being: staying close to home. Less travel means shorter trips, a reduced carbon footprint, and the opportunity to explore your own region or neighboring areas. Plus, since you're saving on transportation, you'll have more money to enjoy local activities. Depending on the situation, these can be " micro-vacations " lasting a few days or even a weekend; or " micro-adventures " for a truly unique and immersive experience.

Eco-friendly or alternative accommodation

Alternative accommodation offers a different way of living. You'll discover new lifestyles. Often, these options provide eco-friendly lodging solutions. To identify them, look for ecolabels such as NF Environnement, Cygne Blanc, FSC, and PEFC. We offer the following eco-friendly or unusual rentals :

• The Pottabilis eco-village
• Domaine EcÔtelia
• Nature Break Educational Farm

" Soft Mobility "

Sustainable mobility means the ability to get around with little or no environmental impact. Walking is the most environmentally friendly option. Other ways to reduce your carbon footprint include cycling and public transportation.

To get from one village to another, the footpaths of the Gironde countryside are at your disposal. We've selected the most beautiful hikes in the Gironde.

By bike, use the cycle paths, greenways and cycle routes: Routes for cycling in Gironde.

Seaside resorts awarded the " Blue Flag " label

The Blue Flag is an environmental label established in 1985. It is a benchmark in sustainable tourism because it identifies and promotes coastal municipalities that work to preserve a high-quality environment and protect their maritime domain. These are primarily marinas and seaside resorts.

Here are the municipalities classified as " Blue Flag "

• Verdon-sur-Mer: Chambrette Beach, Saint Nicolas Ocean Beach
• Naujac-sur-Mer: The Dry Pine
• Soulac-sur-Mer: Amélie, Naïades beach, central beach
• Vendays-Montalivet: Montalivet, L'ACM
• Hourtin: The jetty, the port beach, Piqueyrot
• Bordeaux: the Bordeaux-Lac beach

The preserved villages of the Gironde Estuary

The Gironde Estuary is a unique environment. The villages along its banks are working together to preserve it. You'll appreciate its exceptional natural spaces, authentic villages, and a truly refreshing atmosphere where land meets sea. We recommend:

• The Citadel of Blaye
• Bourg-sur-Gironde and its troglodytic dwellings.
• Macau, to admire the Bec d'Ambès.
• Pauillac, the wine capital and its Maison du Vin.

Bordeaux, a green city to visit

Bordeaux is what's known as a " green city," meaning it implements numerous initiatives for sustainable development and the ecological transition. Among other things, it offers more environmentally friendly and economical ways to get around. For example, you can find bike rental stations or carpooling areas. If you're interested in this topic, here's our article on the Darwin eco-district, a pleasant escape in Bordeaux.

The Dune du Pilat, a " Grand Site de France " in the Gironde region

The " Grands Sites de France " (Great Sites of France) are areas recognized for their beauty. These iconic landscapes have been awarded the label! They are, in fact, very well preserved and protected by this designation. In the Gironde department, the most famous Grand Site de France is the Dune du Pilat. The ideal time to visit is early morning, when the sand isn't yet too hot! A paid parking lot allows you to park right next to the site. You can climb the dune freely in the sand or take the stairs. Once at the top, a stunning view of the Banc d'Arguin and the Arcachon Basin awaits you.

Eco-friendly tourist sites in the Gironde region

To continue this eco-friendly approach, what better way than to visit some eco-responsible tourist sites:

• The Barails Ecological Reserve : Created in May 2018, this reserve addresses the challenges of protecting biodiversity. It covers nearly 160 hectares of meadows and wetlands.
• The Fond de l'Or garden is an inspiring and exotic place, themed around Japan, maintained by the ceramist Jacques Lubet, in the commune of Lugon-et-l'Île-du-Carnay. It is classified as a " Remarkable Garden ".
• The Bruges Marsh Nature Reserve protects the remains of the ancient marshes around Bordeaux.

Go boating on the lakes of the Gironde region or on the open sea, in eco-friendly mode.

Want to get away but not at any cost to the planet? There are all sorts of eco-friendly solutions for enjoying water sports or boat trips while being environmentally responsible:

• Take a boat trip on the Arcachon Basin, with the Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• Learn to paddle a Hawaiian outrigger canoe at YAK Ocean.

Short supply chains and markets in Gironde

The market is the perfect place to sample local produce and meet passionate producers. You'll receive a warm welcome from the farmers and producers of the Gironde region. The atmosphere is truly unique. By buying directly from local producers, you remain true to your eco-friendly approach.

Wine tourism in the Bordeaux region

How can you visit the Bordeaux region without experiencing wine tourism? From a simple stroll through the vineyards to a wine-themed escape game, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on an unusual outing in the Bordeaux wine region.

Eco-friendly shopping trip to Bordeaux

To bring back a little souvenir and treat yourself, we suggest a shopping trip. But not just any shopping trip… Here, the focus is on being environmentally responsible and conscious of your consumption. But don't worry, between local crafts and secondhand shopping, there's plenty to choose from.

All that remains is for us to wish you a wonderful eco-friendly holiday!

Did you enjoy our article? Find more on our blog, "According to my desires".

Follow us on the Bordeaux Gironde Guide Facebook page and on Instagram @guidebordeauxgironde