France Uncovered: Châteaux, Vineyards & Quaint Villages

Discover the history, gastronomy and beautiful landscapes of Western France

Elegant, timeless and wonderfully diverse, France reveals a captivating blend of iconic cities, Renaissance châteaux, picturesque villages, Atlantic coastline and world-renowned wine regions. This 16-day private journey travels from Paris through the Loire Valley, La Rochelle and the Dordogne before finishing among the celebrated vineyards of Bordeaux.

Begin in Paris, exploring its iconic monuments, historic neighbourhoods and world-class art, with visits to Notre-Dame, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and magnificent Versailles.

Continue to the Loire Valley, where grand châteaux, vineyards and riverside towns create one of France’s most enchanting landscapes. Explore the countryside by e-bike, visit Chambord and Clos Lucé, and enjoy a private boat trip with local wine tasting.

Journey to La Rochelle and Île de Ré, discovering the charm of France’s Atlantic coast, before travelling through Cognac into the Dordogne, a region of medieval towns, beautiful countryside, exceptional gastronomy and fascinating prehistoric heritage.

Finish in Bordeaux, enjoying its elegant architecture and gastronomy alongside the landscapes of Arcachon Bay and the prestigious vineyards of Médoc and Saint-Émilion.

From Parisian boulevards and Renaissance châteaux to medieval villages, Atlantic shores and prestigious vineyards, this private journey brings together culture, history, gastronomy and beautiful scenery, complemented by authentic local experiences, carefully selected accommodation and expert local guides.

Make This Itinerary Yours

This handcrafted example itinerary of Paris, Loire Valley, La Rochelle, Dordogne & Bordeaux can be fully customised to suit your interests, tastes and budget.

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Duration

16 days

Start point

Paris

End Point

Bordeaux

Trip type

Custom

Accommodation

4-star hotels

Tour transport

Trains & private drivers

Highlights

  • Discover the iconic sights of Paris, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and the historic heart of the city.
  • Step into the splendour of French royal history with a visit to the magnificent Palace of Versailles.
  • Explore the Loire Valley by e-bike, discovering Renaissance châteaux including Chambord.
  • Cruise along the Loire on a private boat experience, accompanied by local wines and regional delicacies.
  • Discover Leonardo da Vinci’s final home at the Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise.
  • Experience the relaxed Atlantic character of La Rochelle and Île de Ré, with picturesque harbours, villages and coastal landscapes.
  • Stop in Cognac for a guided visit and tasting before continuing into the Dordogne.
  • Discover the Dordogne and Périgord, combining medieval villages, local gastronomy and the prehistoric heritage of Lascaux.
  • Explore elegant Bordeaux on a private gourmet walking tour and visit the Cité du Vin.
  • Experience Arcachon Bay and the Dune du Pilat, including a traditional oyster tasting by the coast.
  • Discover two of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wine regions, Médoc and Saint-Émilion, visiting vineyards and wine estates and tasting celebrated Bordeaux wines.