Taste of Bordeaux-Festive Delight
Flights from London or Manchester included in the price - other airports may be available suject to supplement.
7-night Fly-CruiseRoundtrip BordeauxFrom romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux's colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.COUNTRIES: FranceRIVERS: Garonne, Dordogne
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Garonne, Dordogne
Roundtrip Bordeaux
Day 1
BORDEAUX – EMBARKATION
Embark the ship for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (D)
Day 2
LIBOURNE
Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. Afterwards, enjoy a Grand Cru Classé wine tasting at a local château. Alternately, you can enjoy an excursion to Saint-Émilion solely to discover more of the small historic town. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 3
LIBOURNE
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
Day 4
BLAYE – BOURG
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 5
PAUILLAC
Today, you can join a tour of the Médoc region's renowned wine estates and savor a tasting of Grand Cru wines. More active guests can hike through the vineyards, followed by a tasting of local specialties. (B,L,D)
Day 6
CADILLAC
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years and travel to the Sauternes wine region to either Chateau de Rayne Vigneau or Château Guiraud to taste the highly prized golden-hued sweet wines produced here. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7
BORDEAUX
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. Depending on your interests, you have a choice from two excursions in the afternoon. Enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. Alternately, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. (B,L,D)
Day 8
BORDEAUX – DISEMBARKATION
Disembark the ship and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.
What's Included
FLIGHTS
Group overseas transfers to and from the ship
Return flights from London or Manchester. For alternative airports, supplements may apply.
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
Bottled water replenished daily
• Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
All onboard dining in a variety of venues
Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
Immersive tours in every destination
Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
Bike tours and hikes
Special Interest Tours
Knowledgeable guides
Personal headset for easy exploration