Paris and Breathtaking Bordeaux

The name Bordeaux has always evoked impressions of quiet sensual pleasure, where the civilized and the natural coexist in easy harmony, and wine lovers are free to engage their favorite pastime - savoring the world's finest wines. In fact, the reality of Bordeaux is not that different from the romantic impression most people have of it. Extraordinary landscapes, delicious fare, prepared with the finesse so characteristic of the French, winemaking that has been refined to an art, and a wealth of historical riches, from elegant chateaux to churches that have been around for longer than most of the new world. Visit word class wine estates, explore the Cognac region and sample its famous brandy, and sample fresh oysters from the waters of Archanon Bay. You'll find the beautiful Bordeaux is everything you imagined it to be, and more.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Welcome to Paris

The City of Love is your host this evening, so kick off your holiday with a delightful welcome reception at your luxury hotel.

Day 2:

Paris

Marvel at some of the city’s most iconic sights including the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe and learn about the city that is one of the most visited in the world, as your Tour director regales you of tales of Paris during a panoramic city tour. Alternatively, explore the Bohemian district of Montmartre and step back in time as you traipse the winding cobblestone streets of the district that has been home to many famous artists for centuries. Enjoy a free afternoon of exploration

Day 3:

Paris - Bordeaux

Traverse the World Heritage-listed landscapes of the Loire Valley in style aboard the TGV to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew will welcome you aboard the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your cruise through France’s celebrated southwestern pocket.

Day 4:

Bordeaux - Cadillac

Enjoy a relaxing morning aboard as you cruise south along the Garonne River to the historic port of Cadillac. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Cadillac, established in the 13th Century, or hike 12km’s round-trip to the neighboring village of Loupiac, which offers majestic vistas over the Garonne.

Day 5:

Cadillac

Venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Château Guiraud dessert wines. Alternatively, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Class estate of Château Myrat. Founded by Charlemagne, Roquetaillade Castle remains one of the region’s most impressive historic sites and you’ll be able to tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, discover the medieval village of Saint Macaire, where 11th Century buildings now house modern shops linked by charming alleyways. This remarkable space comes to life when the famous Veneurs d’Epernon - the Pipers of Aquitaine - perform live in the Panorama Lounge.

Day 6:

Saint-Émilion

Enjoy a pleasant morning cruise on the Dordogne River to the beautiful 13th century commune of Libourne. We’ll spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, an absolute visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine-growing region. You’ll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church - a true trip highlight. Celebrate the two thousand-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the exclusive estate of Château Soutard. The vines glow red and gold at sunset, and with a glass of the estate’s Grand Cru Class vintage in hand, it really is hard to imagine a more elegant way to enjoy this beautiful region.

Day 7:

Libourne - Blaye

Awake this morning in the charming town of Libourne. Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town house and gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exclusive estate of Château Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy foie gras tasting at a charming local farm. Soak in the riverside panoramas of the Poitou Charente region while cruising along the Dordogne River toward Blaye this afternoon.

Day 8:

Cognac

Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary. Discover the Terres d’Oiseaux nature park, a tranquil region that is home to over 100 species of migratory and sedentary birds. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin. Unwind with fabulous entertainment in the Panorama Lounge this evening. Our local performers have been handpicked for their ability to delight and entertain.

Day 9:

Blaye - Pauillac

Discover more of the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion. Stroll through the charming Citadel of Blaye, or join a 30km round-trip cycle along the Captain’s Road, which is so named in honor of Captain Pat Fitzgerald of the British Army who retook to the riverside village of Bourg from the German forces in WWI. Our journey continues through beautiful riverside villages before our return to the ship, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the Sun Deck as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands bound for Pauillac.

Day 10:

Médoc - Bordeaux

Travel the scenic Médoc wine route today and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at the Château Gruaud-Larose, or take a bike to Château Lagrange, featured on Napoleon III’s 1855 Classification. In the afternoon, cruise to Bordeaux and, in the evening, sit back and enjoy a lively local jazz band on board.

Day 11:

Arcachon

Situated on the northern tip of Europe’s longest coastal beach, Arcachon is the jewel of France’s western coastline. Discover its culinary delights over lunch in a local restaurant before exploring the beachside area at your own pace. Taste Arcachon’s renowned oysters, or explore Le Teich bird sanctuary, home to over 250 bird species. Alternatively, climb Europe’s largest sand dune and drink in the expansive panoramas.

Day 12:

Bordeaux

Today, discover the idyllic boulevards and buildings of the World Heritage-listed city of Bordeaux. Enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions, or ‘Shop with a Chef’ at a local food market. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Bordeaux before the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board this evening.