OK this one is a bit niche, even for me. But the small town near Bordeaux where we had our destination wedding in 2023 has so much to offer, I had to give it its due. If I hadn’t committed myself to reaching 50 Before 50, I’d be visiting this part of France yearly.
Check In
Chateau Rigaud: A wedding venue from April to October (roughly speaking), Rigaud is a 12th century chateau that hosts wine weekends, yoga retreats and holiday escapes outside the wedding season. This is where we had our wedding so obviously I’m biased, but you’ll love the oversized rooms, l’Occitane amenities, insanely delicious meals from their in-house chef, beautiful grounds & gardens, and friendly hospitality from the entire staff. Also, as a bonus, it’s dog-friendly.
Chateau Carbonneau: A wine-producing estate nearby that is a very nice B&B with a restaurant and glass tea house onsite.
Eat Like It’s An Olympic Sport
L’atelier de Candale: Prix fixe lunch or dinner amidst rolling vineyards. We had our welcome dinner here for our wedding.
Bistro Rigaud: This riverside spot right in Mouliets-et-Villemartin was supposed to be where we had our welcome dinner, but they had to temporarily close the summer before our wedding. If it happens to reopen, I’d want to check it out.
I’d also ask the host of where you’re staying for recommendations.
Drink Like a Local
I can’t say I’ve personally been to a bar in this part of France, but I imagine if you’re looking to truly drink like a local you’re having a glass of wine overlooking a vineyard here, or a local brew here.
Where to Caffeinate
Le TUBE Station Cafe: Adorable mobile coffee shop in Eymet, selling espresso drinks and homemade cookies and pastries.
Stalk the Stylish Locals
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Jilly is the in-house florist at Chateau Rigaud so she has exquisite taste. She’s been renovating an older chateau nearby so it’s been fun to keep up with her progress on IG.
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Yolanda is a former magazine editor from America who’s renovating a home a little north of Bordeaux in the Medoc.
Worth an Excursion
St. Emilion: A highly picturesque medieval village teeming with wine shops and Michelin-starred restaurants, surrounded by vineyards and chateaux.
Bordeaux: Beautiful Gothic architecture, a great food & wine scene and only 40 mins from Mouliets-et-Villemartin.
