Drone view of the estuaryDrone view of the estuary
©Drone view of the estuary

The islands of the Gironde estuary

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Set off to discover the islands of the Gironde estuary, real natural gems accessible from the Margaux Médoc destination. Far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these islands invite you to take a timeless break, between preserved biodiversity, spectacular views and little-known treasures.

The island of Patiras : a gourmet and panoramic stopover

It’s the best known of Gironde’s islands, and for good reason: Patiras Island offers a unique sensory experience in the heart of the estuary. With its 400 hectares, much of which is dedicated to agriculture, it attracts visitors for its local gastronomy and its famous lighthouse, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

On the programme:

  • River shuttle crossing from Pauillac or Blaye
  • Lunch at the Refuge de Patiras, a convivial table with a view
  • Visit the lighthouse and immerse yourself in the island’s history

An excursion not to be missed for lovers of nature, terroir and relaxation!

Patiras ©Agence AppaPatiras ©Agence Appa
©Patiras ©Agence Appa|Photo Agence Appa
    Lunch at the Refuge De PatirasLunch at the Refuge De Patiras
    ©Lunch at the Refuge De Patiras
    Stopover at the Patiras lighthouseStopover at the Patiras lighthouse
    ©Stopover at the Patiras lighthouse
    Stopover at the Patiras lighthouseStopover at the Patiras lighthouse
    ©Stopover at the Patiras lighthouse
      Domaine de l'île Margaux - BordemerDomaine de l'île Margaux - Bordemer
      ©Domaine de l'île Margaux - Bordemer

        Margaux Island: a rare and secret island vineyard

        At its most discreet, Isle Margaux reveals itself like a secret garden floating in the heart of the Gironde. Covering 22 hectares, it is partly occupied by a 100% organic vineyard, grown without herbicides or chemical fertilisers. Here, the silence, the rows of vines and the stone house with its ancient charm make up a real postcard.

        His treasure: a confidential wine, from a unique island terroir, produced with passion by Gérard Favarel, the guardian of this extraordinary place.

        The island only opens its doors on rare occasions, such as:

        • The European Heritage Days
        • The Margaux Saveurs event

        .

        Ile Nouvelle walkIle Nouvelle walk
        ©Ile Nouvelle walk

          L'île Nouvelle : a sanctuary between land and estuary

          A true wild island, Île Nouvelle was created when the former Bouchaud and Nouvelle islands came together. Once used for wine-growing, it is now a protected area managed by the Conservatoire du Littoral. Thanks to exemplary renaturation work, the fauna and flora have regained their rights here: herons, storks, frogs, wild orchids… A paradise for biodiversity lovers.

          A visit to Ile Nouvelle means diving into:

          • An agricultural and human history
          • A restored wetland, precious for the balance of the estuary
          • A bird sanctuary accessible in the summer months

          Macau Island: a mysterious beauty to behold

          Located opposite Macau harbour, Macau Island is not open to visitors, but offers a magnificent panorama from the mainland. Its vegetal silhouette, sometimes shrouded in mist, lends the estuary an almost mystical atmosphere.

          The islands of the Gironde estuary offer much more than mere scenery: they reflect an intimate relationship between man and nature, between heritage and gentle innovation.

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