“A secret garden in the heart of Blaye?” you might wonder, standing before Villa Saint-Simon. This isn’t Paris, but the charming Blaye, a historic town near Bordeaux. Villa Saint-Simon is a beautiful bed and breakfast. It offers restored period rooms and self-catering apartments. It’s perfectly situated for exploring the Bordeaux winelands on the right bank of the Gironde River. Your hosts, Les Kellen and Clarissa Schafer, add a special touch to Villa Saint-Simon. They can arrange wine tastings, field trips to local wineries, and visits to art and antique markets. They can even help you experience local fairs and festivals. The nearby Blaye outdoor market, at the foot of the Citadel, is just steps from Villa Saint-Simon. WineLine Radio host, Robert S. Scott, highly recommends Villa Saint-Simon. He calls it the “Best of Bordeaux” for lodging and experiences. The nearby La Galerie restaurant offers delicious food with a unique, slightly quirky service. It’s known for its fresh ingredients, including produce grown on-site and eggs from their own chickens. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, like dining with friends. Back at Villa Saint-Simon, enjoy a relaxing breakfast with delicious raisin rolls and hot coffee. It’s the perfect way to start a day exploring the surrounding vineyards.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.