Set sail along three of France's most enchanting rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, and discover the fine wines and captivating history along their banks.
On this memorable journey you'll explore the breathtaking rural scenery, excellent wines and cultural treasures of Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, and Libourne. Wander through archaeological sites, historic landmarks and magnificent vineyards where you'll sample fine French wines.
Joining you for part of this French foodie adventure is Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge who'll host a cooking demonstration and answer your questions in a Q&A session. You will also enjoy a trip to Libourne's lively farmers' market, the heart and soul of the town; where locals gather to pick out the freshest vegetables, the tangiest cheeses, the ripest fruits, and the prettiest flowers.
Take a scenic drive from Blaye to Bourg along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another, and marvel at the sights of UNESCO-designated Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill.
You'll get plenty of chances to savour delicious wines from the region's stately vineyards, like a sampling of Sauternes at the Château Royal de Cazeneuve in Cadillac and a tasting in the cellars of a Grand Cru estate.
Your home for the week will be the luxurious SS Bon Voyage, where you'll stay in one of the ship's stylish staterooms. Spend your free time on the Soleil Deck featuring the first infinity pool on the worlds rivers offering glorious views of the French countryside.
Tom Kerridge is a British chef whose restaurant journey began in 2005, when he took over The Hand & Flowers in Marlow. Tom and his wife Beth turned the run-down pub into a Michelin-starred gastropub in the very same year, and earned a second Michelin star in 2021. He has written a number of cookbooks including Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain.
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Price includes saving, discount is capacity controlled. Single supplement applies. Deposit required. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Uniworld River Cruises Limited.
Today you'll arrive in Bordeaux via your preferred means of transport, where you'll be met by your arrival transfer and board your home for the week, the stylish SS Bon Voyage. You'll then have some free time to settle into your elegant stateroom before dinner.
Today you'll sail into the legendary Médoc region, which is home to many prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of vineyards seemingly stretching to infinity across the hills.
Take a scenic drive or cycle along the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate. You'll also have the chance to taste some incredibly fresh oysters, straight from the Médoc salt marshes.
In the evening, a special Captain's Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you on board SS Bon Voyage.
Today's stop is Cadillac, a picturesque town known for its deliciously flavoured dessert wines, and where the phrase 'la douceur de vivre' really comes to life.
You'll visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, the site of Henry IV's and Queen Margot's tempestuous love, and meet the Château owner for a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall.
Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be transferred to your destination via motorcoach.
The Route de la Corniche Fleurie could be one of the most beautiful roads in Europe. You'll see it for yourself today on the drive to Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another.
Once you arrive, you'll discover the wonders of this historic fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux from attacks by sea. Alternatively, you might choose to partake in another wine tasting with a local wine connoisseur.
With Libourne as your base, you'll travel to nearby Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region's history and wine culture.
The mediaeval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to spend a leisurely few hours on a walking tour. Wander along its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends deep beneath the city's streets. There's another treasure waiting for you underground; a wine tasting in the cellars of a Grand Cru estate.
France's rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of Bordeaux's mouthwatering cuisine-and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne's lively farmers' market?
Libourne's market is the heart and soul of the town; everyone gathers here to choose the freshest ingredients and to chat with the producers and growers. You'll get a chance to meet some of the artisans who sell their wares at this inviting market.
This evening, you'll get to taste some mouthwatering French dishes created by Tom, as he hosts a live cooking demonstration. Not only will you taste some incredible plates from this Michelin-starred chef, you'll also pick up some tips on French cooking to elevate your own kitchen skills. Following the cooking demonstration there'll be a very special Captain's Farewell Dinner to enjoy on board with your fellow guests.
Or enjoy an optional after hours excursion to a former submarine base built during the German occupation of France in WWII. The poignant site has since attracted artists who use the building as a backdrop for artistic installations where you'll get to experience the stunning and immersive Bassins des Lumières light show projected against the walls of the base.
Today you'll have the chance to discover the many charms of Bordeaux, either on foot with a local expert guide or on two wheels- the locals' preferred way to navigate the city's quaint backstreets and the historic monuments of this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today you'll disembark the ship and transfer to the train station or airport as your Bordeaux adventure draws to a close.
Sailing with Uniworld is like cruising in a five-star hotel – you’ll enjoy industry- leading service throughout your journey through the beautiful countryside.
The SS Bon Voyage is a luxury river ship uniquely designed to immerse guests in French culture, art, and wine, from its stunning polished wood lobby to the staterooms with luxury marble bathrooms and Savoir beds. On board, you will find a choice of restaurants offering freshly prepared five-star cuisine and fine wines. There is nothing better than relaxing on the sundeck enjoying the ever-changing scenery or taking a dip in the only infinity pool on the world's rivers.
To view Uniworld’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Price includes saving, discount is capacity controlled. Single supplement applies. Deposit required. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Uniworld River Cruises Limited.