Located in the heart of the wine region, this commune has become quite popular with wine aficionados over the years. As such, the majority of the attractions in this town revolve around wine. The town of Pauillac, France is only about an hour north of Bordeaux by vehicle, so even if your cruise ship isn’t stopping directly in the city, and you are stopping at Bordeaux, there’s a good chance you can head up to the town.
Situated in the very heart of the famed Médoc AOC (appellation d’origine contrôlée, a government-controlled destination of origin which signifies where grapes are grown), Pauillac’s gravelly soils are renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines – especially those made from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grape varietals. You’ll be able to taste local at an authentic Grand Cru Classé wine tasting and also have free time to explore Pauillac.
Your Cruise Ship Docks …
The cruise ship will generally dock in the port near the marina. It is close to the center of town, and it should not take travelers long to reach some of the attractions and destinations they want to see.
When in Pauillac …
As mentioned, it’s really the wineries that seem to take center stage in Pauillac. You will find some other activities too though.
- Check Out the Wineries – You will find a number of quality vineyards and wineries in the area including Chateau Pontet-Canet, Chateau Lynch-Bages, Chateau Lafite, Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Chateau Pinchon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Chateau Pinchon Baron, and Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal.
- Rent a Bike – If you would like to get out to the countryside and do some exploring, you can find nearby bike rentals available.
- Take a Walk – It is a gorgeous small town, and walking along the river or through the streets is a treat unto itself.
- Dining in Pauillac – Just as you can find great wine in the area, you can also find a treasure trove of gastronomic delights in the restaurants. Some of the top options include Montevideo Resto, Café Lavinal, La Bodega de Victor, Brasserie de L Union, Le Saint Martin, Le Pauillac, and Don Camillo.
What Do River Cruisers Need to Know?
This is a very small town, but you will find that some of the people do speak English. Still, knowing some French can be very helpful when you are getting around and trying to get service. The currency is the Euro, so make sure that you’ve take the time to go through a currency exchange before you arrive. You can change your currency at most of the larger banks without much trouble.
It’s a small and quiet place, and you really do not have to worry about crime here. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings just so you can be sure you are safe.
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