Escale Médocaine :Journey to the heart of the Estuary Ports

The ports and the pontoon

Here, the landscape becomes wider and quieter. Water meets land in a gentle movement, and the ports of the Médoc become precious stops, full of charm and poetry. Along the Gironde estuary, these small ports tell the story of a strong link between nature, history and local traditions.

Ports of the Médoc

Here, the landscape becomes wider and quieter. Water meets land in gentle movement, and the ports of the Médoc become precious stops, full of charm and poetry. Along the Gironde estuary, these small ports tell the story of a strong link between nature, history and local traditions.

At Cussac-Fort-Médoc, a discreet, elegant pontoon juts out into the changing reflections of the river. Installed at the foot of the Fort Médoc, it attracts the curious and the dreamers alike. Whether you spend a few minutes there or stay to savour the calm, this place offers a striking view of the estuary, and an immediate immersion in the raw beauty of the landscape. Accessible by reservation, it occasionally welcomes passengers and offers direct access to the Fort site.

These ports and pontoons are not just simple infrastructures. They are real windows open onto the river, places for contemplation and connection. Here you can observe the tides, the passing birds, the play of light, and sometimes even… time standing still.

Other ports of call not to be missed

Port de Soussans

Surrounded by marshes and vineyards, this little port has all the makings of a secret spot you like to keep to yourself. It offers a magnificent panorama of the estuary, with Ile Verte and Ile du Nord on the horizon. Depending on the time of day or the season, the landscape changes colour, light and atmosphere… Pack a picnic, settle in, and simply let yourself be carried away.

Port d’Issan

In the softness of the morning or at sunset, the port of Issan is a parenthesis out of time. Once bustling with the loading of wine barrels, it retains a peaceful atmosphere, where the boats still come across eels or lampreys, depending on the season. The views over Macau Island and Margaux Island complete this picture that is both wild and soothing.

Port of Macau

In Macau, the history of the river meets that of the people. Long a trading port, it is now a place for strolling and festivities. In summer, the banks come alive with local guinguettes, and the shady promenades attract walkers and cyclists. And if you’re lucky, you can even witness the mascaret, the spectacular wave that sweeps up the river during the high tides of August or September. A true spectacle of nature.