So much to discover

Albret

La Beaujardine is situated in a region called Albret. Located between the Landes and Gascony, this southwesterly region has a rich history. It is the land of the Albret family, one of the most powerful in Aquitaine. Jeanne d’Albret was the mother of Henri IV.

Albret is an ideal holiday location for those looking for the Aquitaine way of life, relaxation in the heart of hilly landscapes full of castles and mills, quiet rivers and wonderful gastronomy. It is a small region with many hidden treasures without the mass tourism of the nearby Aquitaine coast.

Visit the Lot-et-Garonne tourist information site to find out more.

Activities

Cycling

Thanks in part to the ‘Voie Verte’ – the cycle path that runs alongside the canal – which connects Bordeaux to Sète on the Mediterranean coast, but also due to the wonderful landscapes locally, cycling is a popular pastime and a great way to explore the area. Buzet-sur-Baïse has it’s very own bike hire business in Cycles Sud Ouest. Run by the friendly and professional Clare and Jean-Pierre, it offers both standard and electric bikes, and they can advise on suitable routes for all levels of fitness and experience.

River cruises

The port at Nérac on the river Baïse is home to Prince Henry Cruises, who offer both guided cruises and (license-free) day boat rental. Alternatively, for a longer boating adventure, house boats are available for hire from Aquitaine Navigation at the port in Buzet-sur-Baïse.

Markets

There is a lovely Wednesday market on the central square in Lavardac, where you can pick up vegetables, meat, fish, cheese and bread amongst other things. There is an even larger one on Saturdays in Nérac on the Allée du Centre, with all the above as well as clothing, leather goods and much more besides. Prayssas about 30 km away holds a small produce market on Sundays and is a beautiful village in its own right, well worth a visit.

During the summer months, generally from June until September, there are numerous night markets in the surrounding villages, where local caterers set up stands and you can indulge in the local specialities and wine. There is also usually some form of entertainment ranging from bands to DJs.

Cooking

The gastronomy of this region of France is rightly famous, with duck in particular featuring on most menus. One of the owners of La Beaujardine is an experienced cook and self-confessed ‘foodie’, and would be happy to provide hands-on lessons for any guest wanting to learn about the local cuisine (or indeed any other cuisine).