Travel More Responsibly

Travelling in Nouvelle-Aquitaine is also an opportunity to embrace a more mindful, more respectful — and just as rewarding — way of exploring. Here, travel unfolds at the pace of nature, encounters and the seasons, favouring experiences that reconnect you with the living world. A different way to travel, where every choice matters.

Less and better

Embrace the slow lifestyle

To begin with, why not leave the car behind? The region is easy to explore by train, by bike or even on foot. With thousands of kilometres of cycling routes, following the ocean, crossing vineyards or discovering the countryside becomes a journey in itself. Taking the time to travel differently is already a step towards more sustainable tourism.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is crossed by several iconic cycling routes, perfect for building your own itinerary. La Vélodyssée runs along the Atlantic coast, offering kilometres of freedom by the sea, while La Scandibérique crosses the region from north to south, following ancient pilgrimage routes. More bucolic, La Flow Vélo follows the Charente River towards the Périgord, while La Vélo Francette winds from the Marais Poitevin to La Rochelle. To the east, La Vagabonde and La Vélidéale invite you to explore wilder landscapes in the Limousin. And for a gentler experience, the Canal des Deux Mers cycle route guides you along the Garonne in a peaceful waterside setting.

a few pointers

Enjoy your holiday in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Be inspired by holidays and experiences that combine exploration, respect for the environment, a change of scenery and authentic encounters. This website aims to show you that sustainable travel is possible in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, whilst remaining enjoyable, enriching and unforgettable…

©Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Hotel Les Goélands / Maite Photo

Look out for the labels

Travelling responsibly also means choosing accommodation and activities that are committed to sustainability. Across Nouvelle-Aquitaine, many professionals are actively engaged in offering more environmentally friendly experiences: eco-certified accommodation, low-impact outdoor activities, and local initiatives to protect biodiversity. All opportunities to travel in line with your values, without compromising on enjoyment.

Think ‘local’

It also means favouring local encounters and short supply chains. Wander through a market, visit a farm, taste local produce, or step into a committed restaurant. Behind every speciality are passionate men and women. By choosing local, you support the regional economy while discovering the true authenticity of the destination.

©Villeréal / Teddy Verneuil Lezbroz

©Lac de Vassivière / Clara Ferrand – CRTNA

the right reflexes

Finally, travelling more responsibly can be as simple as slowing down and adopting a few everyday habits. Take your time, observe, respect places and the people who live there, be mindful of your water consumption, and sort your waste whenever possible. In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, everything invites this gentler approach to travel — a chance to reconnect with what truly matters while helping preserve the beauty and richness of the region.

More meaning

craftsmanship and memories

And if you’d like to make the experience last a little longer, bring home souvenirs crafted from local expertise.

South-West craftsmanship includes iconic products such as Limoges porcelain, Charentaise slippers, Aubusson tapestry, the Nontron knife, and Basque espadrilles. It also means discovering both renowned houses and small workshops producing exceptional items. Some of which open their doors to offer a glimpse behind the scenes.

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Experience the NOuvelle-Aquitaine

For the undecided, the charm of the South-West France can be found throughout the region. Go explore our other destinations, from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the hidden villages of Deux-Sèvres, or enjoy surf sessions on the coast and hikes in the vast landscapes of Limousin. You will certainly find the stay that suits you.