Discover one of France's prettiest regions and explore breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures as you sail on board luxurious river ship SS Bon Voyage.
Beginning and ending in Bordeaux, this cruise takes you through breathtaking rural scenery in Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye and Libourne. With shore excursions included, you'll visit historic landmarks, archaeological sites and world-class vineyards, where you'll sample fine wines.
Joining you for part of this foodie voyage is top chef Tom Kitchin, who'll host a cooking demonstration on board and answer your questions in a Q&A session. Tom will also join you on an excursion to the Libourne Farmers' Market, known for its local and seasonal produce on offer.
Further highlights include travelling along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, seeing the impressive Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill along the way, sampling Sauternes at the Château Royal de Cazeneuve in Cadillac and visiting the Cité du Vin museum in Bordeaux.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a classic stateroom, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies. Deposit 15%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Uniworld River Cruises Limited.
Fly from London to Bordeaux. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the port and board SS Bon Voyage for your seven-night river cruise.
The Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Today, you'll join an oyster farmer at the Guards' House terrace for a tasting of this delicacy, accompanied by a glass of local white wine.
Later, choose between a panoramic tour along the Médoc Châteaux route with private wine tasting, or combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards.
This evening, enjoy a special Captain's Welcome Reception and Dinner.
Known for its deliciously flavoured dessert wines, you could choose to journey through the vineyards to Château Royal de Cazeneuve today. During this tour, you'll visit the beautifully restored chateau and meet Louis and Caroline de Sabran-Pontevès, the owner and his wife for a Sauternes toast.
Alternatively, uncover the history of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec - known for his distinctive and colourful take on Paris in the late 1800s as well as his fascination with Moulin Rouge dancers and famous singers. Venture to the nearby town of Verdelais, where you'll notice two beautiful central walkways lined with trees and 19th-century façades. It is here that Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is buried.
The Route de la Corniche Fleurie could be the most beautiful road you've ever travelled along as you pass through one picturesque hamlet after another. Today, choose between an excursion with local wine and art connoisseurs. The owner will give you a personal look into the life of a local wine lover, take you into his art studio, and show you his collections of wine and antique cars. After which, you can explore the rest of Blaye at your leisure.
Or, enjoy a panoramic tour of the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, culminating in a visit to Blaye Fortress. The citadel contains the ruins of a medieval castle, houses, squares, streets and even a convent - all enclosed within stark walls. Standing on the walls will give a terrific view of the estuary.
With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region's history and wine culture. Today, you'll enjoy a walking tour with wine tasting.
Shops brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep cobblestone streets; medieval ramparts that bore witness to battles for control between French and English monarchs still stand; and vineyards encroach upon the village. Be sure to see the grotto where St. Émilion, for whom the town is named, lived out his life in the ninth century. Then, visit the cellars of a fantastic estate where you'll taste some of the world's most highly rated wines.
Back on board, enjoy a talk and Q&A with top chef, Tom Kitchin.
*Please note, lunch will be on your own; ask your Cruise Manager for recommendations on the best nearby restaurants
France's rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region's exquisite cuisine-and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne's lively farmers' market? Today, Tom Kitchin joins you at the market to share his passion on the local and seasonal produce on offer at the market - from breads and cheese, to fish and meat.
Back on board as you sail back towards Bordeaux, Tom will host a cookery demonstration.
This evening, enjoy a special Captain's Farewell Reception and Dinner. Later, you'll experience a very special after hours visit to the Bassins des Lumières - a submarine base with a checkered past. This building has since attracted artists who wish to reclaim the site for beauty and culture and you'll witness a stunning and immersive light show projected against the walls of the base.
Discover Bordeaux's many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or by bike with a choice of two excursions. The walking tour begins with a tram ride from Quai des Chartrons to the Place de la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux' Golden Triangle. Visit the luxurious food halls and elegant shops and sample the delicious handiwork of Bordeaux's bakers - perhaps, learning a few recipes too!
Or join a cycling tour from the riverfront neighbourhood of Quai des Chartrons, past the antiques shops of Rue Notre Dame and the Church of St. Louis on your way to major city squares such as the Bourse and Parliament.
Disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your return flight to London.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a classic stateroom, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies. Deposit 15%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Uniworld River Cruises Limited.