Bordeaux and Loire Valley (11 days) June 17-27, 2024 France's most classic wine region is also its largest: Bordeaux, spiritual home of Cabernet Sauvignon and one of the original collectible wine regions. This a land of grand castles and huge, wealthy estates stretching unbroken miles along the generous banks of the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde rivers in southwest France. Visit several legendary producers, many of them top-ranked since 1855. Our visits can include estates such as Leoville Barton, Lynch Bages, Pavie or Guiraud (Sauternes). Sleep in 5-star luxury in the charming medieval village of St. Emilion, and of course enjoy gastronomic meals paired with wines made nearby.
Then we move from Bordeaux to the famed Loire Valley, home to France's most elaborate palaces (after Versailles). We tour the most astonishing of these castles and explore local history such as that of the Plantagenets, who were instrumental in introducing French wine to England. Combine pastoral landscapes, breathtaking estates, top French cuisine and elegant hotels with visits to some of the world's best wineries for a fabulous vacation! Click to request more information