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One of the best ways to see France is on one of the many wonderful French canal holidays. What could be more relaxing than gently making your way through stunning countryside and fabulous wine country, passing charming local towns and villages and seeing parts of France you would never see by road? Bordeaux is an area of outstanding natural beauty and there are many French canal holidays along the Canal du Garonne that offer the perfect way to indulge in the best of what the region has to offer. The harmonious combination of historic towns, famous vineyards and interesting geography is what makes these French canal holidays some of the best. The Geography of Bordeaux The city of Bordeaux, which is the capital of the Aquitaine Region, sits on the River Garonne, which is very important commercially, as it is wide enough to accommodate large ships, which dock at the city port. The Garonne and the Dordogne rivers become one here and flow into the Atlantic along the Gironde Estuary. Bordeaux is the seat of administration of the Gironde department, which is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Landes, Lot et Garonne, Dordogne and Charente-Maritime to the north, south and east. The Gironde department is the largest in France covering 10,000 square kilometres. Flora and Fauna The Gironde Estuary is famous for its wildlife that ranges from migrating birds to marine species to small mammals. The estuary covers 625 square kilometres and in places it stretches up to 11 km across. The main fish species to be found in the estuary are the Flounder, Mullet, Sea Trout and Salmon, although Eels and both Sea and River Lampreys are also common. Unfortunately, because of over fishing, the once healthy population of Sturgeon that produced the local caviar has now diminished. Spirited Springtime Springtime sees the estuary alive with activity. Migratory birds pass through and any avid bird watcher will delight in the huge number of different species. Spoonbills, Storks and Ospreys are regular visitors joining the permanent residents, which include Black Redstarts, Swallows, Lapwings, Stilts, Ringed Plovers, Herons, Egrets and many more. The flora in this region is diverse but some of the most remarkable species are found under the water. Different sponges, such as the Yellow Boring Sponge, the Elephant Ear Sponge and Anemones are frequently seen, and along the riverbanks wild orchids dance among the reeds. Most of the forests here are pine and alder. Landscape The landscape of this region, because of its size, varies hugely. The northern area is flat and home to many vineyards that some may consider a little uninteresting. The endless vines, however, are broken up by the majestic chateaux that hold the attention of visitors. The Gironde Estuary is wildly beautiful, of course, but its beauty is marred in places by the industry in the area. For a complete contrast, head to the Entre-Deux-Mers area, which is classically pretty. Ruined abbeys and charming villages perched high on hilltops set the scene here. Explore on foot or by bike and you won’t be disappointed. If you are on one of the many French canal holidays in the region, you won’t see every bit of the department, but established companies who specialise in barge cruises in France will be able to make recommendations on the most picturesque routes. Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French canal holidays. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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