Loire Valley and Bordeaux Discovery

Loire Valley and Bordeaux Discovery

Known as the Garden of France for its lush rolling hills and orchards, the 600-mile stretch of the Loire Valley makes up one of France’s top wine regions. Producing original and notable wines, the region is divided into smaller appellations such as Anjou, Bourgueil, Saumur, and Touraine, to name a few. Despite 24 varietals being grown throughout the Loire Valley, the regions major grapes are Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc And Cabernet Franc. Loire Valley wines are known for their excellent value, refreshing acidity and minerality, and the pure expression of the varietal and terroir.

This important region has also been touched by many historical figures of the past, from Joan of Arc to Richard the Lionheart and Leonardo Da Vinci. The valley was also embraced by French Royalty as a safe haven away from the political back-stabbing of Paris and as royal hunting grounds for past Kings. In 2000, the Loire Valley was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in recognition for the exceptional cultural landscape and the quality of its architectural heritage and historical châteaux.

Bordeaux is bottled history with a fascinating story to tell. Now a vibrant, sophisticated city, its history is long and intricately interwoven with its agriculture. Bordeaux is the largest fine wine district on earth. Long revered as a French wine icon, Bordeaux wine is age-worthy, much sought after, and highly prized. There is more Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown in this southwest corner of France than anywhere else on earth. 10,000 producers craft these two varieties and their supporting cast into polished full-flavoured red blends.

The region is often often described as having a left and right bank, referring to which side of the Gironde and Garonnne estuary the vineyards lie. On the left, the prestigious Medoc and Graves regions produce cellar-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blends along with the acclaimed sweet whites of Sauternes made mostly from Semillon due to its thin skin and susceptibility to botrytis. And on the right side, the most sought after regions are Pomerol and Saint-Emilion known for bold, plummy red blends with a dominance of Merlot. Venturing further afield you'll find the hill vineyards of Blaye and Bourg and the wine producing area between the 2 rivers of Bordeaux, Entre-Deux-Mers which means "between 2 tides" in French.

Why Into The Vineyard

Why Into The Vineyard

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Quick Summary

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Arrival into Loire Valley

Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Paris Airport to Paris Train Station
  • Rail Transportation: Paris to Saint Pierre des Corps - Tickets Included
  • Transfer: Train Station to Hotel
  • Activity: Afternoon & Evening at Leisure
  • Accommodation: Hotel Le Choiseul

Welcome to France! On arrival in Paris, you will be met by your private driver and transferred to the train station in the city to catch your onward train.

Rail Journey - Paris to St Pierre des Corps
Comfort Class Tickets

Welcome to the Loire Valley! On arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your accommodation to check in.

Afternoon & Evening at Leisure

Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. Relax and unwind at your accommodation or set out to discover the town of Amboise. It's known for the Château d'Amboise, the grand 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII featuring Leonardo da Vinci's tomb, as well as royal chambers, gardens and underground passageways.

Chateau d

Chateau d'Artigny - Classic Room

Chateau d’Artigny is the dream Belle Époque castle built by François Coty, the famous perfumer. This Castle-hotel is located in the hearth of the Loire Valley just 15 km from Tours and dominates the valley. All the rooms are elegantly decorated in keeping with their location, enjoy modern comforts, and offer pleasant views over the Indre and its valley, the French garden, the Château or the park.  The magnificent rotunda dining room on the ground floor of the castle, “l’Origan” restaurant welcomes guests in a sophisticated, dignified eighteenth century woodwork, enhanced by gilding with gold leaf, fluted columns with capitals carved, and high windows with a beautiful view over the valley of the Indre. Guests may also discover the spa with jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, as well as a range of face and body treatments.

Domaine de la Tortinière - Elegance Room

Domaine de la Tortinière - Elegance Room

The Domaine de la Tortinière is a boutique hotel in the heart of the châteaux of Loire Valley, situated just 15 kilometres from Tours in the Touraine area, where the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley region are waiting to be discovered and reveal their secrets. Young and old alike can take advantage of this immersion in the Indre-et-Loire department to relax and explore the vast Tortiniere park stretching over the 15 hectare property. The charming bedrooms combine classic style with modern comfort and conveniences and, in some cases, a magnificent view over the Indre valley. Savour a gastronomic meal out in the open or in the dining room at the Domaine de la Tortinière’s restaurant before exploring  the Loire Valley châteaux.

Day 2: Loire Valley Wine and Chateaux

Loire Valley Wine and Chateaux
Loire Valley Wine and Chateaux
Loire Valley Wine and Chateaux
Loire Valley Wine and Chateaux
Daily Summary

Touring Western Touraine

Meet your private guide after breakfast and set out to visit the historic Chateau de Chenonceau. Discover the extensive royal history of Chateau de Chenonceau as your guide leads you through this extraordinary 16th century castle and its gardens. Learn how the King of France lived during the Renaissance period and of the women of power who embellished and protected it over the years. As you explore the property, take in the incredible gothic/renaissance architecture, beautiful furnishings, and extensive art collections.

Next, enjoy a visit and tasting at a Vouvray vineyard such as Domaine Huet where you will enjoy an extensive range of white wines typical from Vouvray, specifically Chenin Blanc.

You are then welcomed for a visit to an authentic winery in Bourgeuil, Domaine de la Chevalerie in Restigné. With a long family history of talented winemakers, the knowledge of the estate vines has been passed down with immeasurable precision and care. A family member or colleague will take you into the 11CE cellars, among the oldest in the regions, where their vintages, which are occasionally offered for sale, are stored.

Continue this afternoon, with a tasting of the day near the village of Cravant-les-Coteaux in Chinon. You will be welcomed into the caves of a producer such as Domaine Pierre, and mature your pallet for wines of bio dynamism with a generous tasting of the domain’s fleet.

Your day concludes back at your boutique accommodations, where you will be at leisure to dine at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Deeper Discovery of the Loire Valley

Deeper Discovery of the Loire Valley
Daily Summary

Deeper Loire Discovery

We begin the day with a visit to one of the most spectacular gardens of Touraine, Château de Villandry. By its diversity and originality, Villandry is the Loire Valley Garden not to be missed. We will arrange for a professional historian guide to lead you through the Chateau and gardens, describing the history and architecture of the chateau.

Next, you are welcomed at through the doors of Domaine Pierre et Bertrand Couly, a highly influential producer in this region, for a tasting of their red Cabernet Franc wines.

Enjoy a delicious lunch this afternoon in a traditional winery.

Appreciate the beauty of Azay-le-Rideau and its English Garden as you pass by on route to your next appointment. One of the purest gems of Renaissance architecture in the Loire Valley, financer Gilles Berthelot’s Chateau is delicately placed on an island on the Indre river, and still shines today thanks to the lightness and balance of its mullioned, pepper pots, dormers and above all its graceful staircase.

If you would like for us to arrange for a professional historian to guide you through Chateau de Villandry and the Gardens, as well as Azay le Rideau, we are happy to coordinate a more in depth and historical experience.

You are returned to your lodging following visits.

Cooking Class Loire Valley

Spend an unforgettable day learning how to cook authentic local cuisine as your personal English-speaking Chef introduces you to the traditional French techniques, dishes, and the art of preparing each course. At the end of the experience, treat yourself to the fruits of your labor for lunch.

Day 4: Loire Valley to Bordeaux

Loire Valley to Bordeaux
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Hotel to Train Station
  • Rail Transportation: St Pierre des Corps to Bordeaux - Tickets Included
  • Transfer: Train Station to Hotel
  • Activity: Rest of Day at Leisure
  • Accommodation: Villas Foch
  • Meals: B

After checking out of your accommodation, meet your private driver who will transfer you to the train station to catch your connecting train.

Rail Journey - St Pierre des Corps to Bordeaux via Paris
Comfort Class Tickets

Welcome to Bordeaux! On arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your accommodation to check in.

Rest of Day at Leisure

Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. Relax and unwind at your accommodation or set out for your own discovery of the area.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is bottled history with a fascinating story to tell. Now a vibrant, sophisticated city, its history is long and intricately interwoven with its agriculture. Bordeaux is the largest fine wine district on earth. Long revered as a French wine icon Bordeaux wine is age-worthy, much sought after, and highly prized. There is more Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown in this southwest corner of France than anywhere else on earth. 10,000 producers craft these two varieties and their supporting cast into polished full-flavored red blends.

InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel - Classic Room

InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel - Classic Room

Nostalgic French decor and UNESCO World Heritage architecture set the scene for your stay at InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. The Rooms & Suites of the hotel have a unique character, combining charm, luxury and refinement. Enjoy exemplary wines and fine dining at the Le Bordeaux restaurant, Le Pressoir d’Argent Gordon Ramsay, L’Orangerie bar and a rooftop bar with views over the city. You can also relax in the indoor swimming pool or book a massage in the Guerlain Spa.

Day 5: The Great Cabernets of the Médoc

The Great Cabernets of the Médoc
The Great Cabernets of the Médoc
The Great Cabernets of the Médoc
The Great Cabernets of the Médoc
Daily Summary
  • Tour: The Great Cabernets of the Medoc - Shared Touring
  • Accommodation: Villas Foch
  • Meals: B

The Great Cabernets of the Medoc - Shared Touring

After breakfast this morning, meet your wine guide and small group at central location in the city and depart for an exquisite day of tastings in the Médoc.

Begin the morning at a renowned estate such as, Château Gruaud Larose. Another one of the 15 exclusive 2nd growth properties, this winery is based in the Saint Julien appellation. The notion of terroir binds geology and climate together. The largest concentration of Grand Cru Wines is in the Medoc, an area which benefits from a microclimate that is particularly favorable for the expression of the vine. Since its creation, in 1725, four families have succeeded one another at the head of Gruaud Larose: the Gruaud and Larose families, the Balguerie and Sarget families, the Cordier family and the Merlaut family. This family attachment has been passed on to the employees who often work at the chateau from father to son and from mother to daughter.

Next, Kirwan, or similar, will welcome you for a visit of the estate and a special vertical tasting. The chateau’s white stones peep through from behind the park and contrast with the glass of the greenhouse on the edge of the garden, a few paces away from the terrace. Encountering Kirwan is initially a visual experience. Its vineyard overlooks the Margaux appellation area from the plateau of Cantenac. Run a finger over the barrels in the long towering passageway of the first-year cellar, where the fruit of a vintage and transmission between generations rests.

This afternoon, stop to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant such as Restaurant Le Saint Julien, where you can enjoy a bistronomic style lunch in a lovely setting.

End the day with a spectacular visit at Lynch Bages Grand Cru Classé, or similar. Although there are records of the Bages territory as far back as the 16th century, the history of wine production in the area really began in the 18th century. From 1749 to 1824, the vineyard was owned by Thomas Lynch, the son of an Irishman from Galway who worked as a merchant in Bordeaux. Thomas Lynch managed the land wisely and produced high quality wines under the name of ''Cru de Lynch''. As part of the prestigious 1855 Classification, for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, his wine would soon be classified as one of the fifth growths.

You will be returned to your accommodations at the end of your charming day in the vineyards.

Day 6: Bordeaux at Leisure

Bordeaux at Leisure
Bordeaux at Leisure
Bordeaux at Leisure
Bordeaux at Leisure
Daily Summary
  • Activity: Bordeaux Leisure
  • Accommodation: Villas Foch
  • Meals: B

Bordeaux Leisure

Enjoy a day of leisure to experience the area at your own pace.

Consider hopping on a river cruise. The Garonne River runs through Bordeaux, and a river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Some cruises also include wine tastings and other activities.

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which is home to an impressive collection of art, including works by famous artists such as Rubens, Renoir, and Matisse.

Walk or bike along the quays: The quays along the Garonne River have been transformed into a pedestrian and bike-friendly area. Take a stroll or rent a bike and enjoy the river views.

Shop at the markets: Bordeaux has several markets, including the Marché des Capucins, which is one of the largest indoor markets in France. Here you can find fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and other local specialties.

Arcachon Bay with Pinasse and Oyster Tasting

This morning, you will be met by your private guide at your accommodations after breakfast and set out towards today’s destination: The Bay of Arcachon.

The Bay of Arcachon is an interior sea with a small opening to the Atlantic, backed by a pine tree forest. A mild climate, beaches and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Embark on a private tour around Bassin d'Arcachon aboard a classic pinasse boat, including a special tasting at an oyster farm.

The Bay opens up to the Atlantic Ocean and houses a small inland sea of about 155 km² at high tide where people farm oysters or go fishing, boating and swimming for fun. Stop in one of the typical oyster villages with its narrow streets and its oyster huts: perhaps taste oysters paired with a glass of local white wine!

Following our boat ride, there will be time for shopping and self discovery in Arcachon. We will also arrange for a lunch reservation at a trendy restaurant in town.

Before returning to Bordeaux, take a stroll through the winter town of Arcachon with its astonishing 19th century villas or climb the Pyla Dune, the highest sand dune in Europe, for a magnificent view of the bay and the ocean.

Day 7: Right Bank Discovery

Right Bank Discovery
Right Bank Discovery
Right Bank Discovery
Right Bank Discovery
Right Bank Discovery
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Further Exploration of the Right Bank
  • Accommodation: Villas Foch
  • Meals: B

Further Exploration of the Right Bank

After breakfast this morning, you will be joined by your regional wine guide and small group for another day of discovery.

This morning, you will be welcomed through the doors of Château Troplong Mondot for a visit and tasting of their production. The Chateau has a long and colorful history in Saint Emilion that dates back to the 17th Century. ettled upon its hilltop, the Château discretely dominates an unusual ‘terroir’, quite unlike any other. On the one side, soft wave-like sweeping hills. On the other, the valley and the village of Saint-Emilion, stretching out under our feet. And all around, vines, bushes, hedges, lanes and low stone walls.

Afterwards, Château La Dominque will host your next visit with a special 4 wine Blind Tasting. As in all beautiful stories, one look was enough for successive owners of La Dominique to be smitten with this magnificent Saint Emilion estate, and commit to making the most of it. Called "Durieu" in the early 17th century, the property was acquired by the Glenne family and named "Dominique" by Jacques and Isabeau Micheau in 1690. A subsequent owner, merchant Henri Greloud, added the definite article "La" in the mid-19th century. He is said to have done so because of his love for the Caribbean island of Dominica (or "La Dominique" in French). The Fayat family wanted to build a state-of-the-art winemaking facility that was also well-integrated into the landscape and in harmony with existing buildings. This turned out to be a unique, imaginative, avant garde structure that is functional, luminous, and spacious. It is totally in keeping with the emotion generated by the wine and is widely acknowledged as one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful modern cellars.

We suggest stopping to enjoy lunch at the estate's esteemed restaurant, La Terrasse Rouge, afterwards. Enjoy beautiful views overlooking the vineyards while enjoying refined French cuisine.

This afternoon, we set out to the village of Saint Emilion for a historical walking tour to see the underground monuments. The origins of the village Saint-Émilion go back to the 8th century when the monk Emilion turned the place into a monastic site. The town and the surrounding vineyards developed during the Middle Ages. The visit will cover several centuries of history and legend from the time of the monk Emilion to the carving out of the amazing monolithic church. You will see paintings in the Chapelle de la Trinité and learn the secrets of the catacombs.

You will be returned to Bordeaux at the conclusion of the day.

Day 8: Departure

Departure
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Hotel to Bordeaux Train Station
  • Rail Transportation: Bordeaux to Paris CDG Airport - Tickets Included

Today, you will be greeted by your private driver at your accommodation and transferred to the Bordeaux Saint Jean train station for your departing coach.

Rail Journey - Bordeaux to Paris CDG Airport
Comfort Class Tickets

Accommodation

Hotel Le Choiseul
Hotel Le Choiseul
Hotel Le Choiseul

Hotel Le Choiseul

This charming  castle-hotel is located at the edge of the Loire, near the foot of the Royal Castle of Amboise.  Here, in the homeland of Leonardo da Vinci, the hotel Le Choiseul is a charming and typical Tours house built in 18th century. The hotel enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the Valley of Loire castles. Le Choiseul has multiple categories of elegant rooms located in one of the three residences which make up Le Choiseul: the Maison de l’Ermite, the Maison du Duc and the Maison de l’Apothicaire. The hotel offers pleasant views over the Italian garden, the Loire and the Château d’Amboise, as well as fine cuisine and famous wines at the onsite Restaurant Le 36.

Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch
Villas Foch

Villas Foch

Immerse yourself in the elegance of bourgeois architecture of the 19th century in this restored mansion. Villas Foch is a prestigious residential complex in Bordeaux's Foch district, offering luxurious living spaces with a blend of traditional French architecture and contemporary design. Every aspect of the décor is in line with the city's UNESCO World Heritage standing. The interiors feature spacious layouts, high ceilings, and premium finishes, while amenities include landscaped gardens, private terraces, a wellness area with indoor heated pool and sauna. Villas Foch provides a secure and exclusive living environment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a refined lifestyle in Bordeaux and convenient access to nearby shops and restaurants.


Optional Accommodations

Chateau d
Chateau d
Chateau d
Chateau d
Chateau d

Chateau d'Artigny

Chateau d’Artigny is the dream Belle Époque castle built by François Coty, the famous perfumer. This Castle-hotel is located in the hearth of the Loire Valley just 15 km from Tours and dominates the valley. All the rooms are elegantly decorated in keeping with their location, enjoy modern comforts, and offer pleasant views over the Indre and its valley, the French garden, the Château or the park.  The magnificent rotunda dining room on the ground floor of the castle, “l’Origan” restaurant welcomes guests in a sophisticated, dignified eighteenth century woodwork, enhanced by gilding with gold leaf, fluted columns with capitals carved, and high windows with a beautiful view over the valley of the Indre. Guests may also discover the spa with jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, as well as a range of face and body treatments.

Domaine de la Tortinière
Domaine de la Tortinière
Domaine de la Tortinière

Domaine de la Tortinière

The Domaine de la Tortinière is a boutique hotel in the heart of the châteaux of Loire Valley, situated just 15 kilometres from Tours in the Touraine area, where the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley region are waiting to be discovered and reveal their secrets. Young and old alike can take advantage of this immersion in the Indre-et-Loire department to relax and explore the vast Tortiniere park stretching over the 15 hectare property. The charming bedrooms combine classic style with modern comfort and conveniences and, in some cases, a magnificent view over the Indre valley. Savour a gastronomic meal out in the open or in the dining room at the Domaine de la Tortinière’s restaurant before exploring  the Loire Valley châteaux.

InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel

InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel

Nostalgic French decor and UNESCO World Heritage architecture set the scene for your stay at InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. The Rooms & Suites of the hotel have a unique character, combining charm, luxury and refinement. Enjoy exemplary wines and fine dining at the Le Bordeaux restaurant, Le Pressoir d’Argent Gordon Ramsay, L’Orangerie bar and a rooftop bar with views over the city. You can also relax in the indoor swimming pool or book a massage in the Guerlain Spa.

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SARAH SPITZER

Trip Designer 

Sarah’s career in travel started as a welcomed side effect of living throughout the US, Europe, Asia, Middle East, as an operations officer in the U.S. Army.  Her exposure to vastly different countries sparked her interests in learning about history, people, food, and culture.  

Although she has always been a wine lover, she became passionate about it during her time living in Europe, where she earned her level 3 WSET certification and worked in wine sales.  Traveling the world has been the most enriching adventure of Sarah’s life, and the more memories she makes, the more important it is for her to help other people have those experiences too.  Most recently, she traveled to Alsace, France quaint towns and towering castles whilst enjoying  some renowned Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

Currently based in San Jose, California Sarah is now taking advantage of her California location and exploring the local wineries offered in Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and more.

sarah.spitzer@intothevineyard.com 

MADISON DREITH

Trip Designer 

Madison currently resides in Colorado where she was born and raised – loving to live near the mountains and sunshine. With a background in tourism management and spending a great deal of time traveling around the world, she is very passionate about learning about other cultures, cuisines, and of course, wine.

One of her fondest travel memories was watching the sun rise over Machu Picchu with a cup of hot tea atop Huayana Picchu. She has loved learning about French wines and enjoying the cuisine components to travel. She is excited to share her travel experiences and use that knowledge gained to help curate memorable, unique, custom trips.

madison.dreith@intothevineyard.com