One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Nantes

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Discover France stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, La Roche Sur Yon, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, La Roche Sur Yon, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Bordeaux and 3 nights in Nantes. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating La Cité Du Vin.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Monument aux Girondins
Porte Cailhauplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du VinBase sous-marine
parc bordelaisBordeaux CathedralThe big bell of BordeauxPorte de Bourgogneplace de la Bourse
The Potager ExtraordinaireLe Jardin de la MairieThe Animal Place - Le CrocodileChocolate Museum Gelencserplace de la Bourse
Botanical GardenChâteau des ducs de BretagneLe Lieu uniqueJardin extraordinaire (Nantes)parc de Procé
Machines of the Isle of NantesNatural History Museumparc de la GaudinièrePark La BeaujoireParc de la ChantrerieBotanical Garden
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Grand Blotterau ParcParc de la SèvreBotanical Garden
jardin publicplace de la Bourse

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Day 1

Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bordeaux and begin your adventure in France.

Bordeaux is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Monument Aux Girondins or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bordeaux. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bordeaux and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Bordeaux as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bordeaux and Lormont

  • Bordeaux
  • Lormont
  • More

Drive 12 km, 57 min

  • Porte Cailhau
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • Base sous-marine
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Bordeaux and Lormont destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Bordeaux. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Porte Cailhau. This locally appreciated monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Place De La Bourse, an UNESCO world heritage-designated public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Miroir D'eau, a notable art installation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lormont. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to La Cité Du Vin, a notable museum that everyone visiting Lormont should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Betasom. This respected museum is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bordeaux has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Soléna, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel De Sèze, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bordeaux.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grizzly Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dog And Duck offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bordeaux and Le Bouscat

  • Bordeaux
  • Le Bouscat
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • parc bordelais
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Porte de Bourgogne
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bordeaux and beyond. With 1 night left in Bordeaux, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a historical landmark, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Bordeaux Cathedral. This is a well-known church you should not miss. Another must-see is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, an often recommended historical landmark in Bordeaux.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Porte De Bourgogne.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Bouscat. Your travel time is around 13 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Bordelais. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bordeaux, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Locadillos, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Le Plana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Blind. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bordeaux and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Casey's Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Bar À Vin is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Thecity is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Bordeaux, La Trezanne, La Roche Sur Yon, and Nantes

  • Bordeaux
  • La Roche-sur-Yon
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 365 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • The Potager Extraordinaire
  • Le Jardin de la Mairie
  • The Animal Place - Le Crocodile
  • Chocolate Museum Gelencser
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the hamlet of La Trezanne. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Nantes, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in La Trezanne allows for both.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Trezanne, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to La Trezanne may take around 2 hours 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Trezanne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

The Potager Extraordinaire is an up-and-coming botanical garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Trezanne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Roche Sur Yon may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in La Roche Sur Yon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Le Jardin De La Mairie. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to The Animal Place - Le Crocodile. This frequently visited zoo is a traveler-favorite in the hamlet. Not far away, you’ll also find Chocolate Museum Gelencser. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Nantes. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Nantes, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Parallèle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nantes tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Chat Noir, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Nantes and Rezé

  • Nantes
  • Rezé
  • More

Drive 13 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Jardin extraordinaire (Nantes)
  • parc de Procé
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Nantes, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Nantes will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a beautiful, a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a historic, and a grand. Whether you decide to explore Nantes on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Botanical Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing botanical garden before continuing your journey. Château Des Ducs De Bretagne is your next stop. This interesting castle is one of the best-rated sights in Nantes.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Le Lieu Unique. This picture-perfect cultural center is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc De Procé.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nantes and set your GPS to Rezé. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 9 min. Upon reaching Rezé, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes), a beloved botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nantes.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Nantes.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Cigale, an iconic dining spot in Nantes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, a popular restaurant in Nantes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Abbaye de Villeneuve, a hidden gem nestled in Nantes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Les Berthom, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Coffee House offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bateau-lavoir provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Nantes can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, and La Chapelle-sur-Erdre

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • La Chapelle-sur-Erdre
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Natural History Museum
  • parc de la Gaudinière
  • Park La Beaujoire
  • Parc de la Chantrerie
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nantes and visit amazing attractions in Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, and La Chapelle-sur-Erdre destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Nantes. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nantes, including an art installation, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This popular art installation is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Natural History Museum located in Nantes for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Parc De La Gaudinière. Its romantic features will captivate you.

After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Sainte-luce-sur-loire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Park La Beaujoire, a frequently visited park known for its serene features.

When you’ve had your share of Sainte-luce-sur-loire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Chapelle-sur-Erdre. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Parc De La Chantrerie is an up-and-coming park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nantes and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Nantes offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le 1, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'instinct gourmand offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Nantes. The bars in Nantes make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Plein Sud after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to 4.44 Bar Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Délirium Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, Vertou, Clisson, and Bordeaux

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • Vertou
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 373 km, 4 hours 30 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Grand Blotterau Parc
  • Parc de la Sèvre
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Nantes and drive in the direction of the town of Sainte-luce-sur-loire for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bordeaux, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Île De Versailles (nantes). This curiosity-inducing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nantes and set your GPS to Sainte-luce-sur-loire. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 11 min. Upon reaching Sainte-luce-sur-loire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Grand Blotterau Parc, a beloved park in Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Vertou’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sainte-luce-sur-loire behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Vertou welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc De La Sèvre, an up-and-coming park that draws visitors from near and far.

In the city of Bordeaux, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Confidentiel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Loco By Jem's. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bordeaux.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lord Lion Bar Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Notre Dame, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'engrenage. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Nantes can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bordeaux - departure day

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
  • More
  • jardin public
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bordeaux.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Bordeaux’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bordeaux is the remarkable Jardin Public. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bordeaux or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Arcada offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Mirabelle.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bordeaux and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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