Savouring Bordeaux & the Dordogne

Day 2 Bordeaux

After breakfast, we'll be joined by a local guide for a tour of the historic port city of Bordeaux. Almost half of this city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll discover why with its graceful 18th Century architecture, world-renowned wine heritage and vibrant art scene. We’ll visit the famous La Cité du Vin, an architectural marvel designed to evoke an image of wine swirling in a glass. Inside you’ll experience interactive exhibitions that celebrate wine heritage through the ages and across countless cultures. You’ll finish your visit with a glass of wine on the top floor which offers sweeping views across Bordeaux and the surrounding countryside.

This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Wander the cobbled streets of historic Bordeaux, discover hidden galleries or simply enjoy a glass of wine in a charming square.

Day 3 Arcachon

Today we'll travel to the coastal gem of Arcachon, beloved for its Belle Epoque architecture, relaxed atmosphere and oysters. You'll have time to wander the charming streets and along the seafront. Later, we’ll visit the remarkable Dunes du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dunes. At over 100 metres high, these golden dunes create a dramatic desert-like landscape along the coast.

Day 4 St Emilion & Perigueux

Your day begins with a visit to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage village of Saint-Émilion. For centuries, travellers journeyed through the medieval streets on their way to the Camino de Santiago in Spain, Today, you’ll wander the same cobbled lanes discovering the remarkable Monolithic Church carved directly into the limestone cliff face. The town is surrounded by some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards and you'll visit one of these local vineyards to enjoy lunch paired with a glass of wine.

This afternoon we'll arrive in Perigueux, one of the Dordogne’s most picturesque towns, known for its striking Moorish-influences architecture and renaissance elegance. Spend your free time here wandering the Medieval Quarter with its ancient stones and narrow passageways or discovering the refined Renaissance District where you’ll find grand mansions and peaceful courtyards.

Day 5 The Dordogne - at leisure

Today is free to explore on your own discovering hidden villages, local markets or taking the time to simply relax.

Alternatively, you’re welcome to join an optional guided excursion to the breath-taking Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac. These romantic gardens cascade around a 19th century château, featuring an extraordinary maze of 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods, some resembling flocks of sheep. You'll have free time for lunch before a scenic boat trip aboard a traditional Gabare - a flat-bottomed river vessel, this afternoon. You’ll enjoy views of the stunning landscape dotted with medieval fortresses and golden-stone chateau.

Day 6 Bergerac

Today you’ll journey along the Route des Vins de Bergerac et Duras, a scenic wine road lined with family-owned chateaux that have been passed down through generations. These estates are the custodians of winemaking traditions that date back centuries. We’ll stop along the way at a local winery where you’ll taste the region’s distinctive sweet white wines – complex, elegant expressions for the local environment, before we enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

This afternoon we'll visit another winery to taste some of the region's celebrated red wines. By the end of the day, you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation for the craftmanship and passion that define Bergerac’s wine heritage.

Day 7 Lascaux Caves

The Lascaux Caves are a UNESCO World heritage site nestled in the Vézère Valley near the village of Montignac. These remarkable caves were discovered in 1940 and believed to have been hidden for over 17,000 years. Their walls and ceilings are adorned with more than 600 paintings of galloping horses, charging bulls and mysterious handprints. While the original caves are closed for preservation, you'll be able to see the meticulously crafted replicas.

This evening, you’ll gather for a farewell dinner in a local restaurant, sharing memories of your week of discovery.

Day 8 Bordeaux to UK

After a wonderful week following in the footsteps of pilgrims, artists and winemakers who have shaped this region, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to the UK.