Unmissable stroll in Bordeaux: the Tour of Bridges

Today I'm taking you on one of the essential walks in Bordeaux : the tour of the 2 bridges . Very popular with Bordeaux residents and tourists , this approximately 7km walk offers superb views of Bordeaux , but also calm and greenery a few steps from the bustling center. Let yourself be tempted by the charm of the right bank , the animation of the left bank and take a few moments to admire the 2 bridges which face each other in a totally different style.

A 7km stroll along the water

Beginning of the walk at the Miroir d'eau

I advise you to start your walk on the quays, at the level of the Water mirror to contemplate the beautiful Place de la Bourse . It is a gathering place for locals as well as for tourists who meet to chat, admire the view, take photos but also cool off at the Miroir d'Eau or even dance salsa! From this place, we have a magnificent view of the stone bridge.

The stone bridge

The Pierre de Bordeaux bridge

This superb bridge , more than 400 meters long, was one of the first in Bordeaux . It was built on the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte . Besides, there are as many arches as letters in his name. Coincidences? Your turn to judge.

For the moment, I advise you to leave this remarkable monument aside and head off to the quays of Saint-Louis to take a stroll or organize a small picnic on the lawns. For the next few kilometers, walkers are kings . Finally, they will have to share this beautiful pedestrian space with lovers of scooters, roller skates or even balance bikes ! It is one of Bordeaux's favorite walks . Today it is a real place of conviviality and meetings but this has not always been the case. Before the 2000s, the quays did not have a very good reputation ... they were considered dangerous and impractical, with abandoned hangars! Hard to believe isn't it?

A ray of sunshine and everyone is on the quays

Peckish ?

I have a good plan to share with you if you are on the docks at mealtime . Go to Le Crabe Marteau restaurant to taste fresh , seasonal seafood .

Otherwise on Sunday, the Chartrons market is set up along the quays to offer the best of local products (cheese, vegetables, pastries, etc.). It is also possible to eat on site . Besides, I give a special mention to the seafood stand and their succulent oysters .

The largest outdoor skate park in France

The Chartrons skate park

For winter sports enthusiasts , the quays are a perfect playground with its beautiful straight lines and limited access for pedestrians. For stuntmen , there is even a skatepark made up of different spaces so that all levels can have fun. I love coming here and spending hours admiring the talent and perseverance of the skaters.

The brand docks and the Chaban Delmas bridge

A little further, in the direction of the Chaban Delmas Bridge , you can let yourself be tempted by the many terraces and brand boutiques at bargain prices . It is from this point of view that we appreciate the sumptuous Chaban Delmas bridge . With a little luck, you will be around when it rises to let the boats come to dock in Bordeaux. It is a fascinating spectacle that brings together many spectators!

The Chaban Delmas bridge

Stepping over the Garonne to take advantage of the right bank

Continue the ride uphill on the Chaban Bridge and don't forget to admire the view once at the top. Looking to the left, you can even see the Aquitaine bridge which is also a technological feat . When you reach the right bank , turn immediately right after the bridge to stay in the pedestrian area and continue straight ahead until you reach the stone bridge .

I love to walk on the right bank side . This side of Bordeaux is calm, green and there is a special atmosphere . In summer, I advise you to stop at Alricq for a drink and redo the world on the banks of the Garonne, feet in the sand. There is another place I love in the area: the Darwin Ecosystem.

A break from the Darwin Ecosystem

My third favorite address on this side of Bordeaux : Burdigala cruises  . Why choose between the right bank and the left bank when you can walk on the Garonne and admire the two ... This is another way to discover Bordeaux and enjoy its surroundings.

After this sweet parenthesis , it is now time to cross the remarkable stone bridge towards the left bank. You still have 5 minutes to reach the Water Mirror and the loop is complete.

The essential walk in Bordeaux

Whether by walking, running, cycling, rollerblading ... I advise you to go for a walk around the 2 bridges. It is accessible to all and so pleasant. Good walk !

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