Cognac to Bordeaux: treat your senses with a tour of

Check out castles, caves, wine and cheese on a journey across Nouvelle-Aquitaine, whether in summer or autumn

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France’s largest region, is a fabulous mixture of the country’s best sandy beaches, vibrant cities, wonderful gastronomy and prehistoric caves. Located in south-west France, with 450 miles (720km) of Atlantic coast, it’s the perfect destination for a holiday, with chateaux to explore, museums to visit and great outdoor adventures.

While driving south from St-Malo after the overnight ferry, keep an eye out for Saintes, about 17 miles (28km) west of Cognac. Famed for its Roman arch and amphitheatre, it is a great place to stop, not least to try the Pineau des Charentes, its locally produced fortified wine. The Château de la Roche Courbon in Saint-Porchaire, a magnificent 17th-century castle, is nearby. As well as attractive turrets and a moat, it has its own prehistoric caves and also hosts escape room games.

The Roman arch in Saintes, erected to honour Emperor Tiberius and his sons Drusus and Germanicus. Photograph: Alamy