Have a look at Darwin eco-district in Bordeaux !

Today, I want to introduce you to a place in Bordeaux dear to my heart. A rather unique place, where people from Bordeaux like to meet to have fun, discover, learn but also to eat and shop : Darwin eco-district ! It’s a place with e mix of culture, urban art, ecological and social considerations. 

A bit of history 

Before being one of the trendiest places in Bordeaux, this place belonged to the army. It was the military barracks Niel. After the departure of the military in 2005, the building was abandoned and became a place of expression : perfect for graffiti artists. A few years later, the site was bought to make an eco-district : exhibition center, skate school, organic and local produce stores ... today, we are far from the military spirit

Why do I like to hang out in Darwin? 

I think this place has a soul and I love its unique atmosphere. Everyone is relaxed, people are « open-minded » and it's bubbling with creativity! I feel that it’s a place where Bordelais of all ages and all horizons feel good.

There is something else that I find great :the ability to make something new with old stuff, to deal  with recycling. Games and old school objects used : pinball machines, old TV sets, mismatched accessories ...

The Magasin Général  : a restaurant

There are always lots of things happening in Darwin! I still remember the Christmas market which was one of the most beautiful, ethical and diverse I saw ! But do not worry, no need to wait until December to go there, there are animations all year round: Concerts, exhibitions, conferences, sports meetings ... Take a look at their calendar (click)

 Bordeaux Classic Day : every 1st sunday of every month 

What could you do in Darwin ?  

In addition to events, here's an overview of ongoing activities to test: 

• Sports: Do you prefer skate, Yoga or Bike Polo? A lot of Sports can be practiced in the various Hangars of the old barracks Niel.

Skate lessons

• Fill up on regional products at the grocery store: local beers, honey, cheese, pastries ... eat here or take away. It's a real treat, believe me, I tested them for you.

L'Epicerie with regional beers

• Be tempted by the shop where we will find organic cometic products, tons of interesting books for young and old, eco-friendly clothes ....

• Have a look around the most beautiful works of Street-Art. Go stroll around the buildings to discover beautiful colorful graffiti!

Street-Art in Darwin  

• Take care of yourself at Bivouac Darwin by testing messages, acupuncture ...
• Stroll in the farm Niel and learn more about new agricultural methods : aquaponics, composting ...

• Participate in a guided tour to learn more about its history, its secrets and the transformation of the neighborhood.

• Eat at the Magasin Général. I recommend the Sunday morning brunch on the terrace ... It's good and organic!

le Magasin général : a restaurant

• And even work in co-working spaces!

 How to get to Darwin ?  

Darwin is on the right bank of Bordeaux.

It can be reached by public transport with tram A. Just get off at Stalingrad stop and walk about ten minutes.

Otherwise, why not rent a bike v3 (called "V cube")! It is very easy and pleasant to move around Bordeaux with these bikes and a v3 station is right next to Darwin. Another advantage: you can enjoy walking on the right bank and admire the beautiful view of Bordeaux on this side!

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Article written by Mélanie Oliva for the Bordeaux Gironde Guide