3 Best Sights in Bordeaux and the Wine Country, France

Overlooking the Garonne River in the very heart of town, Cadillac's château was built by the first Duke of Épernon (1554–1642) as a family seat befitting his wealth and influence. The duke's son fell afoul of Louis VIII when he refused a military assignment and was sentenced to death in absentia (he had already fled to England). Seized during the French Revolution, the Renaissance-style château served as a women's prison and psychiatric hospital until the 1950s. The stately home's lovely contours, ornate fireplaces, and 17th-century tapestries make it well worth a visit.

This graceful baroque-style church was founded in 1494 and contains an unusual nave, with upper galleries and a ribbed vault. A striking alter screen, depicting Christ's crucifixion, dates back to 1630. The funeral chapel and mausoleum, the final resting place for the Ducs d'Épernay, can be seen next to the choir.

Founded in 1280 by Jean de Grailly on behalf of the British king, Cadillac was once a walled city and still maintains the ancient town plan to an unusual degree. Two of the fortified doors still stand—the Porte de L'Horloge, with its old clock, and the Porte de la Mer—along with portions of the old ramparts and several period houses. The tourist office offers informative guided tours in English year-round.