Les Bassins à flot, a district in full effervescence

Formerly an industrial and port district, focused on trade and maritime exchanges, the Bassins à flot district is today undergoing a major transformation. Left fallow for several years, the sector has seen its environment gradually evolve thanks to the establishment of infrastructures on an international scale.

Discover the entire history of the Bassins à flot and the activities to do, in our article.

Bassins à flot: a maritime history

In the heart of Bacalan, and on the edge of the Chartrons, the Bassins à flot district was formerly a port for international trade. It welcomed numerous ships, having braved the seas and rivers, to deliver goods of all kinds. Subsequently, the Bassins à flot experienced numerous union struggles before being occupied by the Germans, then left abandoned to the waters of the Garonne. With its 160 hectares of surface area, the district is undergoing a huge land development operation. Housing, infrastructures and facilities such as public transport, workspaces, and cultural venues are gradually emerging. The city and investors are razing the old buildings to make way for new projects and buildings with modern architecture.

From now on, the contemporary facades blend with the landscape of silos, cranes, and old rails. The district attracts more and more visitors and residents each year, looking for a dynamic urban living environment. Local shops are established, as well as museums, restaurants, and other bars.

As a couple, with family, and even for a business trip, many activities are possible in this rapidly changing district. From contemporary art observation to wine tasting, to walks on the quays, establish your program, with our ideas for outings.

Have you thought about booking your accommodation for your stay in Bordeaux? Choose from our different B&B HOTELS in Bordeaux!

The essential places of the Bassins à flot

After this little historical reminder, it's time to discover this part of the Bacalan district. Focus on the places not to be missed, during your visit to the Bordeaux region:

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• The Cité du Vin: it's the must-see of the district and even of the city! Inaugurated in 2016, this building with rounded shapes, reveals all the secrets of wine making. From room to room, discover all the stages of the design of the best vintages. Enjoy a tasting on site, and consult the many books available, to become a connoisseur. If a little hunger arises, the panoramic restaurant on the top floor will welcome you with great pleasure.
• The MMM - Musée Mer Marine: opened in 2019, this museum with cubic lines is dedicated to maritime heritage. Norbert Fradin, founder of the museum, wanted above all to highlight the special link between Bordeaux and the ocean. You will discover, over the 6,000 m², the shared history between man and the sea. His fears, his superstitions, his conquests, and his dreams. The museum also wants to be ecological with a part dedicated to the preservation of the oceans, as well as its fauna and flora.

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• The submarine base: built by the Germans during the Second World War, this huge bunker is now transformed into a space dedicated to art. Temporary exhibitions, jazz concerts, plays, and other shows are held there throughout the year. Do not miss the Bassins des lumières space. A timeless place, where your visual and sound senses will be awakened, thanks to projections of wall works. Find the paintings of Chagall, Monet, or Klimt projected directly onto the concrete building. A totally unusual experience!
• The Bacalan halls: take advantage of your presence in the district to go to the famous Bacalan halls. An undeniable meeting place for all lovers of good food, it is here that you will find the best products in the region. Shop among the 23 local artisans present at the halls. You will find, among other things, butchers, fishmongers, greengrocers, Italian, Spanish, and even vegetarian caterers. Small bonus: you can directly cook your products at the halls' catering point and taste your dishes on site!

Do you still have some room in your program? Then take a tour of the Chartrons district. Adjoining Bacalan, the Chartrons take you into a much more bohemian, romantic, poetic atmosphere. Stroll through the alleyways, haggle at antique dealers, and stop for a drink in one of the many bistros in the area.

After this busy day, return to relax in your B&B HOTEL Bordeaux Bassins à flot and enjoy our many advantages.

Your stay in our B&B HOTEL des Bassins à flot

Located near the center of Bordeaux, our hotel allows you to easily reach all the key points of the city, in just a few minutes. For one night or a extended stay in Bordeaux, our establishment can accommodate up to 4 people per room! Choose from our 124 double, triple, family rooms, and even rooms adapted for people with disabilities.

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Book your room quickly and enjoy the following services and advantages:

• air-conditioned room with private bathroom;
• all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast;
• pets allowed (with supplement);
• flat-screen television ;
• free and unlimited high-speed Wifi;
• city maps available at reception;
• microwave and hot and cold drink dispensers available.

Do you have a question? We can be reached 24/7 by telephone. Do you want to book? Fill out your booking form directly online. See you soon at B&B HOTELS!