Best Luxury Hotels in Aquitaine

Set right on the bank of the gently flowing Dordogne River, this five-star hotel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a little pampering in between taking trips to explore the area. The large onsite spa features four different beauty cabins as well as a sauna and Turkish hammam, while the outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by sun loungers where guests can top up their tans. Each room has been decorated in a different style fit for royalty with adjoining balconies and palatial en suite bathrooms, while gourmet cuisine is provided in the large and impressive onsite restaurant.

Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa is a luxurious, five-star getaway in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic centre. Housed in a beautiful historic building, the hotel is comprised of 28 guestrooms and suites with private terraces fitted with Jacuzzis and features the lavish Montesquieu Suite with its private elevator, starry-sky cinema room and Hammam. Guests are invited to dine in the 30’s private club inspired Le Cercle de Montaigne restaurant serving innovative gourmet cuisine. The on-site Spa Nuxe offers total relaxation and a treat for all the senses thanks to its treatments and wellness facilities. The Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa boasts a tranquil garden with a poolside lounging area.

The timeless InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel is included in IHG Hotels’ exquisite portfolio and is located in Place de la Comédie. Each of the lavish guestrooms and suites feature upholstery designed by Jacques Garcia and exude the elegance of time gone by while boasting modern amenities and comfort. A stay in one of the hotel’s suites may include a stunning view of the Opera or a spacious outdoor living area. Guests can opt to dine alfresco in the Rooftop Bar or take part in a gastronomic experience at the Michelin-starred Le Pressoir D’Argent Gordon Ramsay. Le Bordeaux serves local and region French specialities while The Orangerie Bar offers gourmet delights in a warm, inviting setting. The rooftop Guerlain Spa is a getaway in itself and has a serene indoor pool offering panoramic views of the city. There is also a fully equipped fitness centre.

Once an actual palace, this impressive residence facing onto Grande Plage, was erected on the orders of Napoleon III. It is every bit as palatial by nature as by name, with high ceilings, antique artworks, ornate detailing, chandeliers and regal furnishings. But floral prints, mod cons like blackout shutters and high-quality textiles ensure the 153 bedrooms also feel cosy. Amenities at this historic landmark residence include the Guerlain spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a playground, an outdoor eatery and the one Michelin-starred silver service restaurant Villa Eugénie (named after the wife for whom Napolean had this property built).