Aquitaine, France Guide

Once the playground of French royalty, you’ll find a glamorous edge to this south-western corner of France. To the west, wide, whitewashed beaches and stylish seaside towns and to the east, the gentle rolling hills of France’s most famous vineyards. Hole up in a sprawling country mansion, the perfect point from which to take in the all this renowned region has to offer.

Start with the culinary delights that await you in the region’s capital Bordeaux. Nestled on the Garonne river, this historic city is France at its finest. There’s a noble grandeur to the buildings, a sophisticated sense of superior southern living. Sample fresh oysters and crisp white wine at one of the market stalls, or take a quick whisk round the stunning Musée des Beaux Arts.

In the sweet surrounding countryside, enjoy thousands of acres of vineyards - the region reading like a carefully selected wine list, from Médoc, St. Emilion, Margaux to Pauillac. Take a drive round the fabulous Dordogne, pausing to admire medieval villages and stunning chateaux, before returning to your own piece of history - your sumptuous country mansion. As your chef prepares dinner on the terrace, the smell of truffles drifting from the kitchen, you’ll feel you’ve stepped back into another era entirely.

France, a country known for its romantic language, exquisite cuisine, and elegant fashion, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over thousands of years. From the ancient Gauls to the modern-day Republic, France has seen numerous empires, revolutions, and cultural influences that have shaped its identity.

The earliest known inhabitants of France were the Gauls, a Celtic tribe that settled in the region around 1200 BCE. They were known for their fierce warrior culture and their resistance against the powerful Roman Empire. However, in 58 BCE, Julius Caesar conquered Gaul and incorporated it into the Roman Empire, bringing with him Roman customs, language, and architecture.

In the 5th century, the Western Roman Empire crumbled, and France was invaded by Germanic tribes, including the Franks, who gave the country its name. It was during this time that the legendary King Clovis united the Franks and established the Merovingian Dynasty. Over the next few centuries, the Franks would face invasions from the Vikings, Arabs, and Normans, but they managed to maintain their control over the region.

In the 10th century, the Capetian Dynasty took over the rulership of France and established Paris as the capital. This period also saw the emergence of feudalism, with powerful nobles ruling over their own territories and pledging allegiance to the king. However, by the 14th century, the Hundred Years’ War between France and England weakened the feudal system and paved the way for the consolidation of power by the French monarchy.

The 16th century saw the beginning of the Renaissance in France, with the rise of humanism and the arts. The country became a center of culture, with artists like Leonardo da Vinci and writers like Michel de Montaigne flourishing under the patronage of the French monarchy. However, the 17th century brought about political turmoil with the rise of absolutism under King Louis XIV, which led to the French Revolution in 1789.

The French Revolution was a turning point in French history, as it overthrew the monarchy and established a republic. The revolution also brought about significant changes in society, including the abolition of feudalism and the introduction of civil liberties. However, the revolution was followed by a period of political instability and wars, including the Napoleonic Wars, which saw France rise as a powerful empire.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, France saw significant economic growth, industrialization, and colonial expansion. It also played a significant role in both World Wars and emerged as a global superpower. In the aftermath of World War II, France became one of the founding members of the European Union, solidifying its position as a major player in international affairs.

Today, France continues to be a cultural and economic powerhouse, with a rich history that is evident in its architecture, art, and customs. From the Gauls to the modern republic, the country has overcome countless challenges and has emerged as a symbol of freedom, equality, and progress.