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Journeys: Highlights Of The Loire Valley & Bordeaux
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Length
8 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Paris (France)
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Ends in
Bordeaux (France)
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Available Tour Start Dates
APR 9, 2028 to OCT 29, 2028
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic
Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam - all without sacrificing comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$3,399.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Grand chateaux rise above the Loire's quiet waters, their stone halls still echoing with royal history. Wander through fairytale rooms with local historians, taste wines shaped by generations of winemakers, and descend into Saint-Emilion's ancient catacombs. Guided by curiosity and connection, discover a France built on heritage, flavour, and living tradition.
Visited During Tour
Bordeaux (France) | Loire (France) | Paris (France)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Journeys: Highlights Of The Loire Valley & Bordeaux tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code EFPNG-11889
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Day
1Paris
Arrive at any time.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.
Check-in time at hotel is approximately 3:00pm.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Accommodations: Hotel Relais Monceau -
Day
2Paris/Loire
Board a high-speed train from Paris, watching the urban landscape fade into rolling green countryside as you speed toward the Loire Valley. Transfer to the historic river town of Blois for an orientation walk past half-timbered houses and royal plazas, including free time for lunch on your own at a local bistro. Continue to Chateau de Cheverny for a self-guided walk through furnished rooms untouched by time, seasonal gardens in full bloom, and kennels still home to the chateau's working hounds. Arrive at your hotel with for free time before dinner tonight.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Expedition Leader Led Orientation Walk
Set off alongside your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through Blois, a royal city perched gracefully above the Loire River. Thread through charming, narrow medieval lanes past half-timbered houses and historic stone mansions.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Self-guided Visit at Château de Cheverny
Wander freely through classical rooms filled with lavish period furnishings and exquisite detail, gaining an intimate glimpse into traditional French aristocratic life. Outside, explore sprawling seasonal gardens, pass by the active hunting hound kennels, and admire the distinctive facade that served as the architectural inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in the classic Tintin comic books.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Relais des landes -
Day
3Loire
Begin the day in the riverside village of Amboise, following your National Geographic Expedition Leader along historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries. Next, head to Chateau de Chenonceau, an estate that stretches across the river Cher on a series of stone arches. Meet a local historian for a tour through grand arched galleries, rich Renaissance tapestries, and manicured gardens, learning about the women whose ambition and influence shaped its royal past. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with freedom to seek out a local spot for dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Expedition Leader Led Orientation Walk
Join your Expedition Leader for a morning orientation walk through the riverside village of Amboise. Follow historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries, getting comfortably oriented with the town's local charm, boutique shops, and scenic views along the Loire River before enjoying free time for lunch on your own.
Free Time
Enjoy free time for lunch and to explore Amboise with your Expedition Leader.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Guided Visit of Château de Chenonceau
Spanning the waters of the River Cher at Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the French Renaissance's most iconic architectural wonders! Known as the "Ladies' Chateau" for the visionary royal women who shaped its design and legacy, this fairy-tale estate bridges history, nature, and art. On a guided visit, explore grand halls hung with vibrant period tapestries, step into historic underground kitchens, and stroll through meticulously manicured Renaissance gardens.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Relais des landes -
Day
4Loire
Spend the morning at a family-run winery where the owners welcome you into their vineyards. Walk among the vines, learn about soil health and traditional harvest methods, and taste regional vintages over lunch. Afterward, head to Chisseaux to board a guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River, gliding beneath the arches of Chateau de Chenonceau. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for a quiet evening and optional dinner with your group.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Wine Tasting in the Heart of the Loire Valley
Discover 15 generations of winemaking heritage at a local winery in the Loire Valley. Explore ancient troglodyte cellars to learn how sparkling Cremant de Loire is crafted, sample estate wines, and enjoy a relaxed local lunch featuring authentic regional cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Cruise on the River Cher
Glide along the tranquil Cher River aboard a scenic riverboat, passing directly beneath the grand, stone arches of Chateau de Chenonceau. As lush riverbanks unfurl, your river guide weaves together the region's rich tapestry-from centuries of royal heritage and vibrant native wildlife to the celebrated, sun-drenched vineyards of La Touraine.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Relais des landes -
Day
5Loire/Bordeaux
Board a train south to Bordeaux, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through wide pedestrian squares and past impressive limestone facades. Pause for lunch at a local cafe before some free time. Afterwards, head to the Cite du Vin museum, moving through its interactive exhibits before stepping out onto the Belvedere for a glass of wine and 360-degree city views.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation Walk Led by Expedition Leader
Join your Expedition Leader on an engaging orientation walk through Bordeaux's historic center. Navigate UNESCO-listed streets, admire grand 18th-century architecture, stroll along the scenic Garonne River promenade, and uncover hidden local squares while getting your bearings in this magnificent city.
Cite du Vin Museum Visit and Wine Tasting
Explore global winemaking culture through interactive exhibits at Bordeaux's iconic La Cite du Vin. Afterwards, ascend to the eighth-floor Belvedere to enjoy a glass of wine paired with breathtaking 360-degree views across the skyline and Garonne River.
Free Time
Enjoy free time to explore Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage city along the Garonne River, renowned for its grand 18th-century architecture, world-famous wine heritage, and vibrant local neighborhoods.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux -
Day
6Bordeaux
After breakfast, set off to Saint-Emilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Step beneath the cobblestone streets with a local guide for an underground tour of the monolithic church and dark catacombs carved into the rock. Break for lunch on your own before continuing to a winery. Here, join a private tour of the estate and its stone-vaulted cellars, sampling regional Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion wines before returning to Bordeaux for a free evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Guided Tour of Saint Emilion's Monolithic Church and its Catacombs
Saint-Emilion is a UNESCO World Heritage medieval village renowned for both its world-class vineyards and its extraordinary underground history. Carved directly into limestone hills, its centerpiece is Europe's largest subterranean church, accessible only with a local guide keyholder.
Free Time
Exploring Saint-Emilion on your own gives you the freedom to wander at your own pace through steep medieval lanes and along scenic vineyard paths. This UNESCO-listed village is ideal for independent discovery.
Wine Tasting in Bordeaux Region
Venture beyond the medieval walls of Saint-Emilion into the rolling, vine-covered hills of the surrounding countryside. Here, prestigious Grand Cru estates welcome travelers to explore centuries of winemaking tradition. Step inside a historic cellar to discover how local winemakers blend Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes to craft world-renowned wines, then enjoy a wine tasting.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux -
Day
7Bordeaux
Travel west to Arcachon on the Atlantic coast to encounter the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Climb to the top alongside your Expedition Leader for sweeping views over deep pine forests and ocean waves. Later, head into seaside Arcachon for an orientation walk along the waterfront promenade and an included lunch. Return to Bordeaux for a final evening together, gathering for an optional dinner featuring regional specialties.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit Dune du Pilat
Ascend Europe's tallest sand dune alongside your Expedition Leader to take in spectacular vistas from over 100 meters high. Climb the ridge stairs to the crest of Dune du Pilat for panoramic views spanning lush maritime pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the shifting sandbanks of Banc d'Arguin.
Expedition Leader Led Orientation Walk
An orientation walk of Arcachon led by your Expedition Leader introduces you to this famous seaside resort on France's Atlantic coast. Along the way, discover 19th-century eccentric villas, regional oyster-farming traditions, and the unique microclimate that made Arcachon a famous health retreat.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux -
Day
8Bordeaux
Depart at any time.
We recommend staying a few extra days to experience all this city has to offer.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Journeys: Highlights Of The Loire Valley & Bordeaux tour:
Bordeaux
Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux
Location
17 allée de Rio, 33800 Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Ouchamps
Relais des landes
Location
D7, lieu dit les Landes, 1 Les Landes, 41120 Le Controis-en-Sologne
Ouchamps, France
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Paris
Hotel Relais Monceau
Location
85 Rue du Rocher
Paris, France-7500
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Journeys: Highlights Of The Loire Valley & Bordeaux tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Guided Visit of Chateau de Chenonceau, Chateau de ChenonceauYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group. Board a high-speed train from Paris. Riverside village of Amboise. Family-run winery. Guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River. Board a train south to Bordeaux. Visit and tasting at Cite du Vin museum. Saint-Emilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Private tour of the wine estate with tasting. Arcachon on the Atlantic coast, and encounter the Dune du Pilat. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Visit inside Chateau de Cheverny, royal history on the Cher, vineyard roots at Plou et Fils, sailing past Chenonceau, underground Saint-Emilion.
What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels - 7 nts.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
All National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader. The aim of the National Geographic Expedition Leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Transportation
Private vehicle, train, boat, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Checklist
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, as well as on and off transportation.
Service Level
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?
While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your National Geographic Expedition Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your National Geographic Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.At the end of each trip, if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €8-10 per person, per day can be used as a guideline
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.