The town of Blaye and its citadel
Less than an hour's drive from your campsite, you'll find the town of Blaye. There you can discover the famous Citadel of Blaye. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. If there is one visit not to be missed in the area, it is this one!
Steeped in history, this 25-hectare citadel is magnificently preserved. You'll enjoy strolling around the 1.5-kilometre ramparts and wandering through its narrow alleyways. Just close your eyes for a second and you'll travel through the centuries, taking an incredible leap back in time.
A little history now...
Who hasn't heard of Vauban, that brilliant architect who left his mark on French history.
We owe him countless works, each as remarkable as the next, such as the Royal Tithe.
He will oversee the construction of this military complex between 1685 and 1689.
The citadel was intended to play a major role in controlling maritime traffic on the Gironde estuary and thus ensure the protection of citizens.
We also advise you to head to the top of its ramparts.
You will enjoy a breathtaking view of Europe's largest estuary, the Gironde.
Visit the citadel…
In the heart of the citadel, take your time to wander, meet the artisans and open the doors of the many shops. Art craftsmen, restaurateurs, shopkeepers, they all have well-kept secrets to reveal to you. You can also opt for a guided tour to discover the citadel.
It's always a treat to listen to a historian's passionate account. They will tell you the stories and mysteries contained within this citadel, lead you to discover the underground passages, barracks, convent, and all the hidden wonders of this unique place.
Château Marquis de Vauban
If you wish, you can also visit the Marquis de Vauban castle, located a stone's throw from Blaye, heading towards the D255. Wine tastings are organised there every day during the summer, as are lunches.
From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, we invite you to stay at the Marquis de Vauban castle and soak up its atmosphere. First, enjoy local dishes prepared with fresh produce within the castle, all accompanied by wines from the estate's vineyards.
The menu consists of a starter, main course, cheese, and dessert, with coffee at an additional charge. Enjoy the dishes prepared on-site by their chef. Afterwards, join the complete tour of the estate, guided by the owners. Visit both the interior and the vineyards of the estate.
Prices are €38 for an adult, €44 for a child under 12, and free for children under 2. For more information: https://www.vignobles-le-cone-de-vauban.fr/visite-et-dejeuner/
The unmissable wine route
After your morning in Blaye or your meal near the Château du Marquis de Vauban, continue your adventure along the Bordeaux wine route.
The wine route: what is it?
This is a tourist route which allows for the discovery of wine products and the local produce of specific towns. At the same time, it allows for the discovery of the local landscapes and heritage. Several of these exist in France, for example, in the Rhône, Jura or Roussillon regions.
The Bordeaux wine route passes through Blaye, among other places. This route goes through Sauternes, Libournais, Médoc, Graves, Blayais and Bourgeais, and Entre-deux-Mers.
Whether you're a connoisseur of this delicious nectar or a novice looking to discover this art, believe us, you're in the right place.
A tip for you: you could, for example, make a detour to the Vignerons de Tutiac shop in Val-de-Livienne, located in La Carfouche, to sample their products.
Tutiac unites 500 winegrowers around the Gironde who have been cooperating for 50 years. Their 5400-hectare terroir is varied and offers nuances in its wines. 150 châteaux are grouped here, along with 1300 families. In their shop, you can discover the diverse and varied notes of their wines.
Alternatively, there's also the Blaye Wine shop, where you can find all sorts of wines from the region.
After this lovely day of historical and wine discoveries, you can finally return to your campsite in Le Fouilloux, to your pitch or your mobile home. On your return, don't hesitate to stop by Reception to give us your feedback on your experience.
Tutiac is a cooperative with its roots in the Blayais region, north of Bordeaux. The geological history begins here and shaped the Tutiac butte, where Saint Louis had a chapel built among the vines in 1234.
This monument has gracefully weathered hundreds of vintages. And it's as if the peaceful soul of this place, its permanence through time, inspires confidence in the future and fidelity to the vine.
