BORDEAUX Bordeaux makes

BORDEAUX Bordeaux makes for an ideal winter city break and its wines are amongst the most prestigious in the world. Rich, voluptuous, spicy reds and soft whites from legendary vineyards such as St-Emilion, Margaux and Blaye. In the city of Bordeaux, the number one must see is the Cité du Vin – it is extraordinary. Whether you’re a wine lover or not, this museum is entertaining, fascinating and delicious. Innovative displays – boxes on the walls come to life at the push of a button! – take you through the history of wine from millennia ago to today. Included in the price is a wine tasting on the 8th floor with fabulous views over the city. Head to the 7th floor for lunch, dinner, a snack, coffee or wine – the terrific restaurant Le 7 which has superb views, wine savvy staff and a delectable menu. Wander the streets of old Bordeaux where the UNESCO listed Neoclassical architecture is magnificent. Enjoy a night at the Opera in the city’s famous opera house or visit museums galore. The shopping is second to none (if you’re there in January the sales are fabulous), in fact its home to the longest pedestrianised shopping street in Europe. With thousands of superb restaurants, this is a city that gives Lyon, often called the capital of gastronomy in France, a run for its money. Local specialities include tourin bordelaise, an onion soup thickened with egg yolks, entrecôte Bordelaise, steak with a rich red wine sauce, and canelé, a soft cake with rum and vanilla flavoured filling. Really spoil yourself with the most popular treat in the city – a “Dune Blanche”, delicious little sweet pastries filled with cream, exclusively from Chez Pascal, 7 Rue de la Vieille Tour.

Take a wine tasting at: Maison Gobineau. They have every kind of Bordeaux wine and the prices will blow you away – 2 Euros for a superb red, in stunning surroundings, think 18th century building, Aubusson tapestry and stained-glass. Simply the best in town. (1 Cours du 30 Juillet) Wine and dine at: Le Chapon Fin, the magnificent Belle Epoque dining room created in 1825 has true wow factor. The former 3 Michelin Star restaurant changed chefs a short while ago, and as a result, the prices went down but the food is just as delicious as ever and the wine cellar is a marvel (www.chapon-fin.com). Stay at: Live like a local at a luxurious apartment in the city - Your Bordeaux Home offers several superb options (yourbordeauxhome.com).