Lecornu Calls for Holidaymakers to Visit Gironde Despite Major Wildfire

Bordeaux – 02.08.2026: Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has described holidays in Gironde as a sign of solidarity despite the devastating forest fire. His appeal is aimed at travelers whose stays are compatible with the local safety situation. Accommodation providers, campsites and visitor attractions in the region have suffered significant losses as a result of evacuations, smoke and numerous cancellations. The return of visitors is now intended to provide economic support to affected municipalities and businesses.

This marks a change in the tone of state communication compared with the previous weekend. On July 26, the Prefect of Gironde, Sophie Brocas, had strongly urged holidaymakers not to travel to the department for the time being. Tourists already there were advised to consider other destinations, as further evacuations could not be ruled out if the fire situation deteriorated.

The fire broke out on July 22 in the Saumos and Le Porge area and quickly developed into an exceptionally large forest fire. According to the most recently widely confirmed situation reports of July 28, around 42,000 hectares had been affected. At that point, incident command described the fire as stabilized, but not yet fully under control. Fourteen renewed fire hotspots were recorded on that day alone.

The differing messages reflect two simultaneous requirements. The protection of residents, emergency personnel and holidaymakers takes priority while the wildfire risk persists. At the same time, hotels, campsites, restaurants, and agricultural and forestry businesses need revenue after the disaster response wiped out numerous bookings. Tourism is one of Gironde’s key economic sectors and supports tens of thousands of jobs.

Lecornu’s appeal is therefore not a blanket all-clear for the entire department. Travelers must continue to adapt their plans to local orders, road closures and possible evacuations. Restrictions may apply, particularly in forest and coastal areas and at affected campsites, depending on wind, heat and smoke conditions. Before traveling, it is advisable to check announcements from the prefecture, municipalities and accommodation operators.

Because of the scale of the fire, the authorities mobilized extensive resources. According to the prefecture and the government, thousands of firefighters, soldiers and security personnel, as well as firefighting aircraft and helicopters, were deployed at the end of July. Bordeaux Metropole also opened the Bordeaux-Lac exhibition center for evacuees, with space available for up to 10,000 people.

For holidaymakers, the distinction therefore remains clear: stays outside closed or endangered areas can support local businesses. In affected zones, only the instructions of the prefecture and emergency services continue to apply.