Top 10 things to do in and around Libourne

To visit Libourne is to escape to Gironde to admire landscapes that oscillate between rivers and the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Located east of Bordeaux along the Dordogne, Libourne is a small town in France where life is good between nature, heritage and the famous gastronomy of Libourne. Come quickly, we'll take you on an excursion to discover all its secrets.

Opening photo: Libourne / Didier San Martin / AdobeStock

1- The city of Libourne, visit it on foot on a market day!

Let's start with the starting point, the city of Libourne. Prefer to criss-cross the alleys and quays along the Isle and the Dordogne on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, days when you can enjoy the market entertainment. A real attraction of the town, it is set up in the open air on Place Abel Surchamp and in the adjacent streets to present many products from the region, jewellery, clothing and souvenirs. On Saturdays and Thursdays, this open-air market is complemented by the Halles de Libourne with 16 food vendors who offer their specialties in a historic building.

2- Take a boat trip in Libourne

Departing from the Libourne marina, embark on a boat trip with friends or family to navigate the Dordogne for a few hours or several days. Guided tours, barbecues on the water or aperitifs along the Dordogne, there are many possibilities to enjoy the Libourne sun. Set sail and let yourself go in a privileged setting.

3- Discover the tidal bore on the Dordogne

Don't miss the Mascaret, an impressive wave that forms on the Dordogne during high tide coefficients between June and October. A true Libournais phenomenon, it delights lovers of sliding between surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing or jet skiing. Enjoy several waves up to 1 meter high for about ten minutes, or observe this rare event on the best spot in the port of Saint-Pardon.

4- The Castle of Vayres

We cross the Dordogne to go to Vayres to visit an old fortress from the Middle Ages. Former property of King Henri 4, the Château de Vayres is imposing and elegant with its square keep, its castle and its towers. In the 17th century, its appearance evolved and took on the Renaissance style with a majestic double spiral staircase and a large central gallery. Do not miss the meeting of the year at the beginning of August with the swashbuckling festival to dive into the world of musketeers and knights.

5- Go on wine tours in the Libournais

The visit of Libourne and its surroundings cannot be done without a tasting of the wines of the vintage. Renowned for its red wines, the Libournais has a wealth of wine through its vineyards of Saint-Émilion, Fronsac, Pomerol and Lalande-de-Pomerol in particular. Meet on site to discover the cultivation of the vine and the preparation of the grapes alongside winegrowers who are passionate about their terroir and their profession.

6- Discover Wakeboarding in Libourne

Come experience unique sensations on the water pulled by cables. Wakeboarding is a popular sport and practiced on 3 spots in Libourne. Fly to Sablons, the largest water ski lift in the world where 300 meters of circuit promise you acrobatics and speed on the Gougeon lake. To learn about wakeboarding, Lac des Dagueys is ideal for young and old. The lake of Izon is pleasant to progress with 3 courses proposed according to your level. Raise your adrenaline level, let yourself be towed.

7- Come canoe on Lisle

The Libournais does not lack a river. On Lisle, you can go canoeing! Enjoy magnificent landscapes, a pleasant river accessible to all. Trust the rental companies in the region for a moment of relaxation on the water!

8- Go for a swim or relax near a lake

We offer you a calmer activity, swimming. Surrounded by lakes and rivers, Libourne offers cool corners perfect for hot days. Lac d'Espiet is a small corner of paradise renowned for its Terres Blanches beach with white sand and turquoise water. Bathe in a haven of peace with many shaded areas where swimming is supervised. Lac des Nauves is 25 hectares of purity divided into 2 ponds, ideal for relaxing and unwinding after a long day. Spread out your towel on the beach of Saint-Seurin-sur-l'Isle by the river, and enjoy a colorful and furnished setting for splashing around in the cool. Finally, at Lac des Dagueys, a 40-hectare lake suitable for swimming awaits you, surrounded by herbaceous banks ideal for resting or picnicking.

9- Discover a natural area: The Marais des Brizards

North of Libourne at Billaux are the Marais des Brizards at the confluence of the Isles and the Dordogne. This wet and floodable area is one of the most remarkable in Aquitaine for its ornithological richness. Discover a natural site where many birds and waders have found refuge, creating a center of major ecological interest for the region.

10- A railbike ride, choo choo!

A few kilometers from Coutras, in Guîtres, let yourself be carried away in an unusual activity on the city's railway line. The first rail bike in Gironde, it is accessible to everyone on a 9-kilometre circuit between clearings and undergrowth, in the heart of the Double Saintongeaise forest. Pedal on rails in the middle of nature and warm up your calves to Lapouyade station.

The Libournais is a natural region where it is good to escape. Visits, walks, local gastronomy and heritage, there is something for all tastes and desires to never be bored.

Libourne, playful and fun water activities in Gironde. There are many things to do in and around Libourne. A natural destination with varied landscapes, you will be delighted to escape to a green and soothing region.

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