The Ciron
in the South of Gironde
From Lubbon in the Landes to the Port of Barsac, the river Ciron plays an important role in the region!
This 97 km long-river crosses the Landes de Gascogne plateau, the Bazadais plateau and the Sauternes hillsides. It may be a small river, but it contributes to numerous activities in the South of Gironde: walks, fishing, canoeing, Sauternes wine tasting, cultural visits…
Voir le contenuDiscover the hidden face of the Ciron
The Ciron is a 97km long river that crosses the Landes de Gascogne plateau, the Bazadais plateau and the hillsides of Sauternes.
This small river offers great activities in the South of Gironde: walks, fishing, canoeing, Sauternes wine tasting, cultural visits…
The Ciron valley is a very wild natural area protected by a “forêt galerie”, a 40.000 years-old ancestral forest… The drainage basin of the Ciron being listed a Natura 2000 zone, keep one eye open during your walks. You may catch sight of an otter or a pond tortoise hidden behind a tree trunk!
Strolling along the banks of the Ciron
If you are a keen hiker, numerous walks are awaiting you along the banks of the Ciron. Put your trainers on, make sure you have a bottle of water, a hat and mosquito repellent, and off you go!
The most famous hike in the South of Gironde is definitely the walk of Bernos-Beaulac. This easy stroll is perfect for a family walk, between mills, gorges and small bridges. For a more leisurely stroll, the Belvédère du Ciron is an interpretative trail offering an astonishing view of the river. In the port of Barsac, take a break to go fishing or have a picnic in the shade of the trees.
You can also discover the Ciron by bike, if you prefer two wheels to hiking boots! The Ciron-Lubbon-Barsac tour invites you through forests, lagoons, small towns and gorges. You will need two days to complete this difficult route, so make sure you are trained before setting off!
Discover the Ciron from the water
The Ciron is also a great spot for canoeing and kayaking, from the nautical bases of Bernos-Beaulac, Villandraut and Bommes. For a few hours, paddle down the river to explore another side of the Ciron: its gorges and canyons.
Visiting Bommes in August? Do not miss the Fête Nautique de Bommes and its famous procession of flowered canoes!
Visit the Château de Cazeneuve
By the Ciron stands proudly the Château Royal de Cazeneuve. The castle of King Henri IV and Queen Margot overlooks the river and promises you a historical and mysterious visit.
Troglodyte caves overflowing with anecdotes about Queen Margot, medieval cellars, prison… the fortress is full of surprises! But it is in its park that you will find the river and its treasures: the Queen’s cave, the Queen’s Garden and the huge bamboo grove.
