Vineyards: Some of the world's greatest wines are produced in the Gironde estuary, the area around Bordeaux. It is possible to visit the vineyards and châteaux, but is best to make an appointment in advance. Among the most celebrated are châteaux LaTour Martillac (tel: (05) 5797 7111; website: www.latour-martillac.com), Margaux (tel: (05) 5788 8383; website: www.chateau-margaux.com), Lafite-Rothschild (tel: (05) 5659 2683; website: www.lafite.com) and Mouton-Rothschild (tel: (05) 5673 2020; website: www.bpdr.com).

Arcachon: The Bassin d'Arcachon is France's fourth largest oyster producer. Consequently Arcachon, 55km (34 miles) from Bordeaux, has many seafood restaurants where the excellent oysters can be sampled. Around Arcachon are many sheltered beaches popular with the Bordelais. Contact the local tourist office for more information (tel: (05) 5752 9797; website: www.a2bis.com).