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Sitting back to back with the Landes Forest, side by side with the famous vineyards of the Graves and Sauternes wines, divided by the picturesque gorges of the Ciron River, this beautiful country unfolds itself valley after charming valley.
Known primarily for its superior breed of cow, Bazas doesn't draw guidebook raves or tour buses. Their loss!
The town's cobbled streets and airy public spaces encourage aimless wandering, while shops and monuments provide plenty to do.
Historic buildings abound, quiet gardens beckon--and when you're tired of visiting, you can always eat. Bazas offers several delectable restaurants, as well as shops with local products like foie gras, duck confit, Sauternes wine, and of course, marvelous cuts of boeuf de Bazas.
The town is clustered around a large central square, edged with elegant 16th- and 17th-century town houses under which runs an arcade.
Two of the loveliest buildings are the Dutch-style Maison de l'Astronome and the H?tel d'Andraut, the latter constructed during the reign of Louis XIV.
But most impressive is the Cathedral, a glorious jumble of Gothic, Renaissance, and neoclassical styles that presides over the main square.
A lively farmers' market gathers outside every Saturday morning, where you can pick up delicious saucisson (dried sausage) and crispy apple tarts called 'croustades'--ask the vendor to sprinkle yours with Armagnac, a close cousin of Cognac. :o)
Say bonjour to J? J?, an apple-cheeked vendor of fresh flowers and produce who sets up his stall just in front of the cathedral, and to the fishmonger, known for his jokes.
Only 40 minutes south of Bordeaux on the highway to Pau, Bazas is a dynamic town of approximately 5,000 inhabitants which has developed a sense of balance between its past, the present and the future.
While remaining the capital of a rural area, it has also developed its industry and craftsmanship. Within an urban framework, with an exceptional environment, and with many local facilities, Bazas has become known for its pleasant quality of life. I found it to be a lovely city containing great history and architecture...and most of all, great people!!! |
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