Chateaux, Wines and Cuisines of france

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 Our first stop is Reims, unofficial capital of Champagne. We will visit two Champagne houses in Reims and  in Epernay.

The City of Lights, Capital of Fashion. Visit iconic landmark. A day trip to Chateaux Fontainebleau, via public transport. 

Situated on the lower reaches of the Loire valley, Tours is known for its wines and medieval centre with its half-timber houses. This is our base to explore (via  local transport) the surrounding towns, wineries and chateaux of the Loire Valley.

Renowned for its wines. Often referred to as Little Paris, Bordeaux is situated on the banks of the Garonne River.                  

Toulouse is bisected by the Garonne River and sits near the Spanish border. It’s known as La Ville Rose (‘The Pink City’) due to the terra-cotta bricks used in many of its buildings. Catching local transport, we will visit the medieval city of Carcassonne.       

The gateway of Provence: Avignon has beautifully preserved ramparts and streets bursting with history.   

Founded by Greek settlers from Phocaea in around 600BC, Marseille is the oldest city in France, as well as one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Using local transport, we will explore the towns of Aix-en-Provence and  Toulon.

The deep blue waters of the Cote d’Azur are the dramatic backdrop for elegant Nice. Breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air Breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air.  This is our base to explore the French Riveria.

Exclusions: 

International airfares, local tours other than included above; meals and drinks unless stated, gratuities/tips, entrance fees,local transport including return fares Reims to Epernay, Tours to Chenonceau, Tours to Chinon, Tours to Vouvray, Marseille to Aix En Provence, Toulouse to Carcassonne. 

Inclusions:

Transfers Paris and Nice via airport trains.

Intercity Transport via train or bus

26 nights’ accommodation

Breakfast in all stops except Tours

Tours - Champagne tastings in Reims and Epernay; A half day trip to Giverny to visit Monet’s Garde from Paris ; Entrance to Chateau Fontainebleau from Paris; A lunchtime food walking tour in Tours with guide; Entrance to Chenonceau; Wine tasting in Chinon and Vouvray;  St Emilion day trip with lunch and wine tasting, and an evening aperitif cruise from Bordeaux; Traditional food tour with wine by local guide in Toulouse; A full day Best of Provence tour; and Riviera in a Day to Eze, Monaco, Monte Carlo and Antibes

Note:   Depending on your interests, this travel plan involves walking, standing, steps, stairs and 

uneven ground at ancient sites and other locations