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The stunning boutique hotel, Le Saint-James, a contemporary Relais & Chateaux retreat in Bouliac, is inviting art lovers to sample the abundance of contemporary art and culture on offer in and around the beautiful city of Bordeaux.

Nestled within the vineyards on the ‘Balcony of Bordeaux’ the hotel boasts breath-taking, romantic views over the River Garonne, with the city in the distance. Ideally located just 20 minutes from Bordeaux Airport, the hotel is just a short drive from chic Bordeaux with its beautifully kept streets, galleries, museums, designer shops, stylish bars and restaurants.

Custom-designed by iconic architect Jean Nouvel, the hotel is passionate about contemporary art. As well as boasting its own sculpture garden at the front of the building, the hotel regularly exhibits the works of local artists. Le Saint-James is currently showing the work of Erwin Dazelle, a well-known painter, sculptor and glassmaker from the southwest of France. The exhibition runs until 1 May 2017 and features stunning pieces inspired by stained glass windows. All the works are for sale and private viewings can be arranged. Three further rotating exhibitions are planned throughout the year and will each run for three months.

Using the hotel as a base, guests can explore Bordeaux, which is fast-gaining a reputation as a city of contemporary culture. The iconic Cité du Vin wine museum which opened its doors in 2016 and makes a strong architectural statement, is not to be missed. The spectacularly designed building which changes with the light, houses both temporary and permanent exhibitions, events, shows, workshops and tours.

There are large collections of contemporary art at both the FRAC Aquitaine collection and the CAPC museum, which is located in an old warehouse with stunning architecture. There are also many different galleries and artists’ workshops scattered throughout the streets of the vibrant city.

The gastronomic restaurant at Le Saint-James is headed up by Michelin-starred chef Nicolas Magie and is widely regarded as one of the finest restaurants in the Aquitaine region. The hotel also has a vineyard and a fabulous traditional French bistro that’s just a short walk from the hotel in the village for guests wanting to explore the locality. The bistro sells rotisserie dishes and a tantalising selection of homemade desserts that attract visitors from far and wide.

Cookery classes are also available in the hotel’s on-site cookery school, “Côté Cours” and can be tailored according to the varying abilities of guests. Guests can learn new skills such as how to prepare fresh scallops and concoct simple, yet colourful and creative dishes which can then be enjoyed in the cookery school with a glass of fine wine.

Food lovers will enjoy the Marché de Producteurs which is hosted by the hotel and open to visitors. Featuring gastronomic delights from local suppliers, hotel guests can wander across the hotel’s shaded terrace, sampling and purchasing the fresh, seasonal produce on display. The next market will be held on Sunday 2 April. Subsequent events are running throughout the year and culminate with a festive Marché de Producteurs on 17 December.

Prices start at €195 per room per night.

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