Itinerary – Bordeaux and Dordogne Exploration
Bordeaux and Dordogne Exploration
Sip, savor, and stroll your way through the gastronomical regions of France, planted amidst lush countryside and medieval influences. Savor the pleasures of Bordeaux and Dordogne: sample the fruits of France’s most famous wine regions, learn to cook authentic French cuisine, and explore beautiful historic villages. Tour scenic riverside towns, journey through sprawling valley vistas, and delight in the sights, smells, and tastes of renowned vineyards.
Itinerary
Day 1: Bordeaux – Perigueux
Greeted upon arrival to Bordeaux, and guided transfer to the historic city of Perigueux. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free. Welcome dinner at a local restaurant within walking distance from hotel.
Day 2: Brantome & Bourdeilles
Lovely Brantome, surrounded by the river Dronne, is often called the Venice of the Périgord (the French term for the Dordogne region). Continue to grotte de Villars to see spectacular rock formations and cave paintings. Next, we will drive to Bourdeilles, with its impressive medieval chateau that towers over the village. Return to Perigueux for a leisurely walking tour of the town.
Day 3: Bergerac – Sarlat – Domme – Ville France de Perigord
Arrive in the country of Bergerac: surrounded by the renowned vineyards of Monbazillac and Pécharmant, the old city of Bergerac has succeeded in preserving its half-timbered houses, remnants of the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries. Continue to Sarlat, an authentic example of a Renaissance city. After a guided walking tour of the town and lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to Domme and admire the river and Dordogne Valley views.
Day 4: A Tour of Two Rivers
The stunning Lot and Célé Valleys feature medieval villages, castles, narrow gorges, and waterfalls. Our peaceful and picturesque journey will start from Cahors with stops at St. Cirq Lapopie, Cajarc, Figeac, Espagnac, and Marcilhac.
Day 5: Saint Emilion – Bordeaux
Depart for Bordeaux. Stop along the way at the charming village of St-Emilion to visit red wine producers of the Libournais Appellation. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore Bordeaux on your own. We recommend visiting the stately Triangle-d’Or, the medieval St. Pierre district, or Place des Quinconces, the largest square in France.
Day 6: Appellation Blayais et Medoc
Drive to Blaye to explore the appellation Blayais and Bourgeais with educational tasting sessions. After lunch at a local family-style restaurant, enjoy a tasting in the Margaux vineyards to experience the Appellation medoc.
Day 7: Bordeaux Cooking Class
Learn French sauce techniques and Bordeaux wine recipes. After the completion of your lesson and the certificate ceremony, settle down to enjoy lunch with your chef and sommelier. Spend the evening taking in the elegant city of Bordeaux with a guided walking tour and farewell dinner at a local restaurant featuring live music.
Day 8: Bordeaux – Departure
Transfer to airport for the flight back home.