11-Day Tour of Southwest France Starting from Bordeaux

Welcome to the heart of Southwest France, where our enchanting journey begins in the vibrant city of Bordeaux. As we gather for a delightful welcome dinner, you'll have the chance to meet fellow travelers and toast to the adventures ahead. Bordeaux, renowned for its exquisite wines and rich history, sets the perfect stage for our multi-day tour. Bon appétit!

Today, we venture to the stunning Arcachon Bay, where the Atlantic Ocean kisses the French coast. Savor the taste of fresh oysters paired with local wine, a true coastal delight. Our journey continues to the majestic Great Dune of Pilat, offering breathtaking views over the bay. As the sun sets, we arrive in the glamorous seaside town of Biarritz, where you'll have the evening to explore its charming promenade and indulge in local delicacies.

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the French Basque Country as we journey to Bayonne, a city steeped in art and history. Discover the secrets of a local family business at the Bayonne Ham Museum, where a tasting session awaits. After indulging in the flavors of the region, enjoy a leisurely afternoon back in Biarritz, exploring at your own pace.

Our journey takes us eastward to the picturesque city of Pau, known for its stunning views of the Pyrenees. As we travel through the Midi-Pyrénées region, we'll pause in the spiritual town of Lourdes. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Lourdes and the Massabielle Grotto, both revered sites within the Christian faith. Embrace the serene atmosphere before settling into our charming accommodation for the night.

Follow the trail of knights as we traverse the enchanting Midi-Pyrénées, passing through picturesque bastides. Our journey includes a visit to a local winery, where you'll savor a glass of the region's sparkling Blanquette. As the day draws to a close, we arrive in the medieval city of Carcassonne, where you'll have the evening to explore its historic streets at your leisure.

Today, the medieval wonders of Carcassonne await your exploration. Wander through the alleys and passageways of the UNESCO-listed citadel, marveling at its 52 towers and ancient ramparts. Visit the Château Comtal, a fortress steeped in history. As evening falls, we'll gather for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and memories of the day's discoveries.

Bid farewell to Carcassonne as we journey to the 'red city' of Albi. Enjoy a leisurely walking tour, taking in the architectural splendor of the Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile. After some free time for lunch, we'll continue to our hotel nestled in a nearby medieval village, where a sumptuous dinner awaits.

After a morning of leisure in our charming village, we set off for the picturesque town of Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne. Along the way, we'll pause in several idyllic French villages, offering a chance to stretch our legs and soak in the scenic beauty. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening of exploration and dining at your leisure.

Join our Tour Leader for a morning stroll through the enchanting streets of Sarlat-la-Canéda, including a visit to the town's traditional market. Our journey continues to the riverside town of Beynac-et-Cazenac, where you'll have free time to explore its well-preserved medieval château. Return to Sarlat-la-Canéda for an evening of leisure, perhaps dining at one of the town's charming restaurants.

Our Dordogne adventure leads us to the prehistoric wonders of Lascaux Cave, where we'll admire the replica Lascaux Cave II. A stop in the picturesque village of Les Eyzies offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Follow the 'Royal Road' to a local truffle farm, where an exclusive lesson in truffle hunting awaits, complete with a tasting session. Return to Sarlat-la-Canéda for a farewell dinner, celebrating the memories made.

Our final day takes us to the historic village of Saint-Émilion, perched above rolling vineyards. Here, you'll have the opportunity to sample the region's renowned 'heavy reds' and toast to the journey. As we return to Bordeaux, we bid farewell to new friends and cherished memories.