The Gironde is France’s largest department. Its Atlantic coastline is a vast ribbon of fine sand stretching from Cap-Ferret to Le Verdon. The Landes Forest, a realm of maritime pines, covers its western half. At the heart of this region, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the kingdom’s leading port in the 18th century, the city has preserved the architectural elegance of that era. The Cité du Vin is considered the flagship of Bordeaux wine tourism. When you think of wine, you think of fine dining, and the Gironde is no exception, with delicacies such as canelés, foie gras, and Aquitaine caviar. It is home to no fewer than 14 Michelin-starred chefs, including Philippe Etchebest, Pierre Gagnaire, and Gordon Ramsay.