The Darwin ecosystem: an unusual place in Bordeaux

The site originally belonged to the army, with two buildings to house the soldiers. When they left in 2005, the site was abandoned and then renovated to make it an ideal place for graphic designers and street art artists to express themselves. Years later, it was bought back and turned into an eco-citizen centre, with the aim of preserving the environment of the former barracks and Magasins Généraux. Darwin himself championed a number of causes, including the green and creative economy, the fight against prejudice and the ecological transition.

The ecosystem is a lively place, with people enjoying an organic lunch or just a drink, others working here, some strolling the streets to discover the street art, children having fun and making the most of the playful décor, and there are even animal farms. At Espace Darwin, people feel relaxed and at ease, with a creative spirit wandering through the place, giving way to a unique atmosphere. Game machines are available, old school type machines that give Darwin its flavour: pinball machines, mismatched accessories or even old TV sets.

This lively, creative district also has a lively side, with events organised throughout the year, including concerts, sporting gatherings, exhibitions, conferences and much more. The centre is constantly renewing its activities. In particular, a skatepark has been set up in one of the hangars of the former Niel barracks. You can skate, but if that's not your thing, activities such as yoga and bike polo are also available.

At l'Epicerie you can buy regional products such as honeys, cheeses, local beers and pastries, which you can eat in or take away. You can also choose to stroll around the shops, some of which sell organic cosmetics, eco-responsible clothing and books for all age groups. For the pleasure of your eyes, you'll marvel at the breathtaking works of street art in grandiose colours. Take a stroll around the Niel farm to learn about new farming methods: collective composting, aquaponics, etc.

A restaurant called Magasin Général is renowned for its gourmet organic brunch, which you can enjoy on a Sunday morning on the terrace. Co-working spaces are set up so that those who want to work can concentrate in a space dedicated to calm and seriousness.

If you're curious about the history of Drawin, you can find out more on a guided tour.

There are enough spaces, activities and artworks to accommodate a wide range of people of all ages. Younger visitors can play on the games machines and meet new friends, while others can skate on the sliding surface. Older visitors can simply stroll around, have lunch or admire the many works of street art.

The Eklo in Bordeaux is 600 metres from the Darwin ecosystem. The establishment welcomes you into its warm, family cocoon, where sharing and conviviality are the watchwords. By staying at this hotel, you will be respecting Darwin's way of thinking, and the hotel has been ranked the greenest in France by Betterfly Tourisme.

In second place we recommend Chambres à Bord'O, 900 metres from Darwin. The rooms are in a small house with a contemporary and modern style, and the location is quite good, especially with tramway A just a 2-minute walk away.

Part of the Darwin district,Magasin Général is an organic-only restaurant serving vegetarian pizzas, veggie burgers, country-style dishes and a vegetarian dish of the day.

The Yeladim foodtruck, located two minutes' walk from the ecosystem, will be delighted to welcome you and serve specialities inspired by Levantine, Algerian and Georgian culture, such as hummus, khachapuri, panisses, falafels, babka...

🚌 How do I get there?

By tram: line A stop "Stalingrad".

By bike: a V cube bike station is right next to the venue.

🕒 Opening times:

The Darwin ecosystem is open every day from 2pm to 7pm except Sundays.