Fully revised and updated, this guide includes a section detailing the history of Southwest France, seven features covering the area's life and culture, ranging from its Romanesque architecture to its fine wines; a visitor's guide to the sights, and a comprehensive travel tips section packed with essential contact listings and practical advice. This title includes key features such as: places - region-by-region gazetteer section, with top attractions highlighted and cross-referenced with detailed local maps; essay features - incisive essays on Southwest France's history, people and culture; photo features - magazine-style full-colour features on some of the region's most exotic sights; and travel tips - practical listings section, including accommodation, restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes, entertainment, nightlife, transport and essential contact addresses and numbers. The 'Best of Southwest France' section covers top recommendations of everything you simply can't afford to miss, including historic cities including Bayonne and Nimes to France's answer to the Grand Canyon, Gorges du Tarn. It is packed with hundreds of full-colour photographs and 17 maps, including an illustrated guide to the region's food and wine production. The unique combination of insightful exploration alongside practical advice makes this guide a fascinating background read and an invaluable on-the-spot companion.