S.W. FRANCE
A JOURNEY OF DELECTABLE DISCOVERY
The South-West of France is a hidden gem full of stunning views, amazing scenery and countryside. Some might say, one of the most beautiful regions of France, it is situated between the Atlantic coast and the spectacular Pyrenees mountains and bordering Spain. Therefore the variety of influences in location not only affects its mild climate but also its food, wines and traditions.
Explore the influences that truly make this region special. Delve into colour and fun of Basques village festivals and explore its natural wonders. Devour the famous local produce including Foie Gras, Perigord truffles, duck confit, Arcachon basin oysters, cheese and a variety of fresh seafood. Learn about the unique Basque and Landes culture and above all explore one of the world’s largest fine wine regions, Bordeaux, and taste its sweet nectars as we go.
Bordeaux
Forget Paris or Lyon, Bordeaux is one of France’s most exciting, vibrant and culturally diverse cities with everything on offer. Its beautifully renovated 18th Century architecture takes you back into France’s heyday and is today is the largest urban UNESCO listed world heritage site. Bordeaux is the wine capital of the France made up of more than 8,500 producers and 54 appellations of Bordeaux wine and has one of the world’s greatest wine museum.
Hossegor
A chic seaside town, Hossegor is ideal for those that enjoy a surf, paddleboard, golf, forest walk or just want to relax by the stunning Atlantic Coast. It is also a great base to explore the stunning Landes and Basque regions. Hossegor, the surf capital of France, has a very relaxed feel whilst you browse the many surf shops, boutiques, and markets it has on offer. Further down the coast, visit little Basque fishing villages and elegant seaside towns and take in the thrilling atmosphere of one of their famous summer village festivals, celebrating local culture, cuisine and produce.
The Dordogne - Perigueux
The Dordogne region of south-west France is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in the country. We will visit this beautiful region of France, with its rich food, beautiful medieval towns and villages, its many chateaux, unspoiled countryside and prehistoric caves. Discover Perigueux, the capital of the Dordogne, with its quaint medieval centre surrounding the spectacular Cathedral Saint Front and lively weekend markets.
Sare - Basque country
The extraordinary Basque hinterland is the perfect backdrop to explore the unique Basque Culture and cuisine. Rolling green hills as lushly green as Ireland, beautiful green and red louvered houses, shaggy sheep and delicious food is what we will find when visiting this culturally rich region.
Sare is a typically Basque village located deep in Basque Hinterland near the Spanish border and is classified amongst the most beautiful villages of France. Here we will taste the gourmet delights of this interesting culture. It really is a world unto itself.
Arcachon
Arcachon, on France’s Atlantic Coast, is renown as the holiday destination for France’s rich and famous. A long time Oyster harvesting area, a visit to the oyster huts to taste these delicacies just off the boats, is a must. This beautiful seaside town's main attractions are the town centre with its markets and vibrant atmosphere and restaurants a plenty, its stunning grand villas and just outside of the town is the Dune Du Pyla, the largest sand dune in Europe.
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is definitely a place that once you have seen it you will fall in love with it. Located on the bay of Biscay, this fun and happening city has not just spectacular beaches and coastline, friendly locals, many festivals, fascinating history and great shopping, but it also has a food culture like no where else. According to the Lonely Planet: “With Michelin stars apparently falling from the heavens onto its restaurants, not to mention pintxo (tapas) culture almost unmatched anywhere else in Spain, San Sebastián frequently tops lists of the world's best places to eat”. Bon Appetit -On Engin in Basque!
2019 Tours
South West France Discovery
Bordeaux to San Sebastian via the Atlantic Coast
16 days - escorted tour
From $15,500pp twin share
Departure dates:
13th to 28th June 2019
30th June to 5th July 2019
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Experience the colour of the Basque festivals, devour the famous local produce of Fois Gras, Perigourd truffles, Arcachon oysters and cheese, delve into the rich basque and landes cultures and above all, explore the world's largest fine wine regions, Bordeaux and St Emillion and taste its sweet nectars as we go
