Blaye (Gironde)

Blaye, located on the right bank of the Gironde estuary, brings two things to mind: the citadel which overlooks the Gironde and "Premieres Côtes de Blaye", wines of Bordeaux from the right bank of the estuary.

Blaye (Gironde) mini guide

Blaye brings two things to mind: the citadel which overlooks the Gironde and "Premieres Côtes de Blaye", wines of Bordeaux from the right bank of the estuary.

Blaye already had an economic and an important strategic position in the gallo-Roman time but it was during the reign of Louis XIV, with the construction of the citadel by Vauban, that it became what it is today.

The citadel of Blaye is a small, tranquil town and a nice tourist attraction. A beautiful spot, it has grass, trees, birds and a spectacular view over the Gironde estuary. Blaye is also the last resting place of the heroic paladin Roland, whose body was brought here in 778 after the battle of Roncevaux. However, his mausoleum is now no more than a heap of rocks.

You can get a feel of the town by strolling through the streets and you will get a full appreciation of its position, overlooking the Gironde, by walking around the walls.

The tour of the walls ends with the ruins of the Castle of Rudel. This castle of the Middle Ages gets its name from a troubadour of the 12th century. It was integrated into Vauban's citadel and has been in ruins since the 19th Century.

A viewpoint indicator is located on the top of the keep. There is a wide panoramic view of the estuary overlooking the sea, the eastern part of the citadel and the Porte Royale.

Town of Blaye provides entertainment and a wonderful market every Saturday and Wednesday.

There is also a ferry (BAC) from the town to the other side of the Gironde Estuary.

Guide point	Details
Department:	South West France > Aquitaine > Gironde >
Location:	Located in South West France France in the Gironde department in the Aquitaine.
Public Transport:	Blaye is 56 km north of Bordeaux by rail.
Tourist information website:	http://www.tourisme-blaye.com/
Tourist information contact email:	info@tourisme-blaye.com
Tourist information switch board number:	+ 33 (0)5 57 42 12 09
Tourist information address:	L’Office de Tourisme de Blaye, Les Allées Marines, 33390, Blaye, France
Quick links to accommodation:	Accommodation near Blaye (Gironde) - Hotels in Blaye (Gironde) Show accommodation in Gironde - Self catering in Gironde - Bed and Breakfast in Gironde properties with pools in Gironde -