The Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostelain the heart of the Médoc

The Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela

Tourisme jacquaire, or pilgrimage on the roads to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle, is not just a spiritual and historical adventure, it’s also an authentic, human experience. Through the destination Margaux-Médoc, history and heritage intertwine to offer a unique experience to those who follow the Way of Tours, also known as the Via Turonensis. This legendary route crosses the Gironde from north to south, offering walkers a journey that is as much spiritual as it is historical.

At the crossroads: The Tours Way

The Voie de Tours is one of the most emblematic routes of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Mentioned in the famous pilgrim’s guide by Aimery Picaud, this historic route follows the line of the ancient Roman road taken by Charlemagne. Legend or reality, this is where generations of pilgrims have found solace and direction. Today, walkers follow in the footsteps of this rich past, while discovering a region full of historical and spiritual treasures.

The route, which starts at Pleine-Selve and descends to Belin-Beliet, faithfully follows GR 81. Along the way, walkers arrive in Blaye, home to the citadelle which forms part of the Verrou de l’estuaire along with Fort Médoc and Fort Paté. This ensemble is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This stage is a moment of discovery, as some pilgrims choose to board a river shuttle to cross the Gironde estuary between Blaye and Lamarque, and so continue their adventure through the Médoc.

Margaux and Arsac : Between vineyards and history

Your adventure on the Voie de Tours then takes you to the heart of the Médoc, a region where the hospitality of the locals and the wine-growing landscapes open up to you. Travelling through the communes of Margaux and Arsac, you are invited to discover prestigious châteaux and world-famous vineyards. These lands, combining natural beauty and refinement, bear witness to the perfect alliance between the art of winemaking and the Jacobean heritage.

Hikers are immersed in a timeless setting, where each château, each vineyard, seems to tell you an ancient story. It’s also a unique opportunity to discover local flavours in estates that, while rooted in tradition, don’t hesitate to open their doors to visitors. These stops are a chance to recharge your batteries and soak up the discreet elegance of this Médoc region.

Le Pian-Médoc

Continuing your journey, le Pian-Médoc offers an ideal stopover for pilgrims in search of serenity. This charming, calm and picturesque village invites contemplation, thanks in particular to its historic church and the Lamourous Hermitage, a place conducive to meditation and rejuvenation. It’s the perfect stopover before heading back to Bordeaux, the big city that marks the end of this section of the route.

Before arriving...

the Basilica of Saint-Seurin, the Cathedral of Saint-André and the Basilica of Saint-Michel, all of which bear witness to the city’s importance to pilgrims.

Wandering the streets of Bordeaux, you can admire 18th-century architecture, visit the Cité du Vin and enjoy a host of other cultural attractions. Bordeaux is a vibrant stopover where modernity blends with history, offering an experience as rewarding as it is unforgettable.

All along your itinerary, you’ll be welcomed with warmth and kindness. In the Médoc, Jacobean hospitality is alive and well, and each stage, from Lamarque to Margaux, Macau, Le Pian-Médoc and Soussans, has been designed to offer a true haven of peace. With only six Jacobean accommodations, we are keen to preserve an intimate and authentic experience, where every walker feels at home, like a privileged guest.

So, are you ready to embark on this adventure? The Camino de Santiago in the Médoc is not just a route to walk, it’s a real journey to the heart of the soul of our region. Between vineyards, châteaux, villages and a warm welcome, each step brings you a little closer to the very essence of the Médoc. Come and share this unique experience with us!

The path of towers