Unmissable walk in Bordeaux: the Tour des ponts

Today I'm taking you on one of Bordeaux's must-see walks : the tour of the 2 bridges. Very popular with Bordeaux residents and tourists, this walk of around 7km offers superb views of Bordeaux, but also peace and quiet and greenery just a few steps from the bustling center. Let yourself be tempted by the charm of the right bank, the liveliness of the left bank and take a few moments to admire the 2 bridges which face each other in a totally different style.

A 7km walk along the waterfront

Start of the walk at the Water Mirror

I recommend you start your walk on the quays, at the Miroir d'eau to admire the beautiful Place de la Bourse. It is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike who come together to chat, admire the view, take photos, but also to cool off at the Miroir d'Eau or even dance salsa! From this spot, you have a magnificent view of the stone bridge.

The stone bridge

The Stone Bridge of Bordeaux

This superb bridge, over 400 meters long, was one of the first in Bordeaux. It was built on the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. In fact, there are as many arches as there are letters in its name. Coincidences? You be the judge.

For now, I advise you to leave this remarkable monument aside and head in the opposite direction towards the Saint-Louis quays to stroll or organize a small picnic on the lawns. For the next few kilometers, walkers are king. Finally, they will have to share this beautiful pedestrian space with scooter, rollerblade and balance bike enthusiasts ! It is one of the favorite walks of the Bordeaux residents. Today it is a real place of conviviality and meetings but this has not always been the case. Before the 2000s, the quays did not have a very good reputation... they were considered dangerous and impractical, with abandoned sheds! Hard to believe, isn't it?

A ray of sunshine and everyone is on the docks

Feeling a little peckish?

I have a great tip to share with you if you 're on the docks at mealtime. Head to Le Crabe Marteau restaurant to enjoy fresh, seasonal seafood.

Otherwise, on Sundays, the Chartrons market is set up along the quays to offer the best local products (cheese, vegetables, pastries, etc.). It is also possible to eat there. In fact, I give a special mention to the seafood stand and their succulent oysters.

The largest outdoor skate park in France

The Chartrons skate park

For skate enthusiasts, the docks are a perfect playground with its beautiful straight lines and limited pedestrian access. For stunt riders, there is even a skate park made up of different areas so that all levels can have fun. I love coming here and spending hours admiring the talent and perseverance of the skaters.

The Quays of the Brands and the Chaban Delmas Bridge

A little further on, towards the Chaban Delmas Bridge, you can be tempted by the many terraces and designer boutiques at bargain prices. It is from this vantage point that you can best appreciate the sumptuous Chaban Delmas Bridge. With a bit of luck, you will be nearby when it rises to let the boats come to dock in Bordeaux. It is a fascinating spectacle that attracts many spectators!

The Chaban Delmas Bridge

Cross the Garonne to enjoy the right bank

Continue the walk by climbing the Pont Chaban and don't forget to admire the view once at the top. Looking to the left, you can even see the Aquitaine bridge, which is also a technological feat. Once you reach the right bank, turn immediately right after the bridge to stay in the pedestrian area and continue straight ahead until you reach the stone bridge.

I love walking along the right bank. This side of Bordeaux is calm, green and has a special atmosphere. In summer, I recommend stopping at Alricq for a drink and a rethink on the banks of the Garonne, with your feet in the sand. There is another place I love in the area: the Darwin Ecosystem.

A break at the Darwin Ecosystem

A stroll on the Garonne

My third favorite place to visit on this side of Bordeaux : Burdigala Cruises. Why choose between the right bank and the left bank when you can cruise along the Garonne and admire both? It's another way to discover Bordeaux and enjoy its surroundings.

After this pleasant interlude, it is now time to cross the remarkable stone bridge towards the left bank. You still have 5 minutes to reach the Miroir d'Eau and the loop is complete.

The essential walk in Bordeaux

Whether you're walking, running, cycling, or rollerblading, I recommend you take a stroll around the two bridges. It's accessible to everyone and so enjoyable. Enjoy your walk!

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