Southwest France: A Journey of Epicurean Wonders
City of Bordeaux > Bordeaux’s Historic Center > Saint-Émilion Village> Château-hotel > Castelnaud & Beynac Castles > Kayaking on the Dordogne & La Roque-Gageac > Sarlat-la-Canéda > Lascaux IV > Gardens of Marqueyssac > Rocamadour
About Southwest France
Forget the everyday. Welcome to Southwest France: a dream forged in wine, history, and unparalleled beauty, spanning the legendary vineyards of Bordeaux, the majestic valleys of the Dordogne, and the prehistoric wonders of the Périgord.
Savor the velvety first sip of a world-class Grand Cru wine on an ancient château terrace, the air rich with history. Witness a storybook come alive as the mighty Dordogne River flows past daring cliffside villages and towering medieval castles.
Then, discover the cradle of humanity in the caves of Lascaux, before indulging in the rich, earthy perfection of black truffles and foie gras, the true taste of l’art de vivre.
This is not just a trip; it’s an immersion for the soul. Don’t just dream of this corner of France, live it.
Trip Highlights
- The 10-day journey explores the epicurean and historic wonders of Southwest France, spanning Bordeaux and the Dordogne.
- The first three days are dedicated to the Bordeaux wine region, featuring grand city tours and exclusive Grand Cru tastings in Médoc and Saint-Émilion.
- The trip moves to the Dordogne, starting with a local wine tasting in Bergerac and a classic Périgord specialty dinner.
- Guests will explore medieval history by ascending the dramatic, rival fortresses of Château de Beynac and Château de Castelnaud.
- A highlight is the thrilling truffle hunt with trained dogs, followed by a tasting of the esteemed “black diamond” and local walnut products.
- Cultural stops include the vibrant markets of Sarlat-la-Canéda and a guided tour of the world-famous Lascaux IV prehistoric cave art.
- The itinerary concludes with a visit to the spectacular cliff-clinging sanctuary of Rocamadour before the return to Bordeaux.
The Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Bordeaux
Arrive in the majestic city of Bordeaux, the global capital of wine, and settle into your elegant city-center retreat. Let the journey begin with a gentle riverside promenade along the Garonne, soaking in the grand architecture before indulging in your first taste of Nouvelle-Aquitaine cuisine in the chic, historic Chartrons district.
Day 2 — Bordeaux’s Historic Center & Grand Wines
Begin the day with a guided immersion into the city’s classical splendor, witnessing the Place de la Bourse and the famed Miroir d’Eau. In the afternoon, the wine country beckons: venture to the renowned Left Bank of Médoc or Pessac-Léognan for an exclusive château tour and tasting, savoring the depth and complexity of a true Grand Vin at its source.
Day 3 — Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
A serene transfer brings you to the hallowed vineyards of Saint-Émilion. Explore the rolling hills and medieval hamlets on a guided E-bike ride, culminating in an unforgettable visit to a Premier Cru estate where cellars are carved directly into limestone caves. Conclude the day by exploring the UNESCO-listed village on foot before retreating to the tranquility of a vineyard hotel.
Day 4 — Transfer to Dordogne & Bergerac
Enjoy a scenic journey east, transitioning from the renowned terroir of Bordeaux to the lush green landscape of the Dordogne region. Pause in Bergerac for a riverside lunch and a specialized tasting of the local, nuanced wines like sweet Monbazillac or dry Pécharmant. Finally, arrive at your boutique countryside hotel or château-hotel, where a relaxing evening awaits, signaling your deep immersion into the Périgord.
Day 5 — Castelnaud & Beynac Castles
Plunge into medieval drama by ascending two of the region’s great fortresses: Château de Beynac, a dramatic cliffside sentinel, and its historic rival, Château de Castelnaud, housing a unique museum of medieval warfare, both commanding breathtaking views of the river. The afternoon unveils the Périgord’s culinary treasures: join a thrilling truffle hunt with trained dogs, followed by a tasting of the esteemed “black diamond” and fragrant products from a traditional walnut-oil mill. Conclude the day with a deeply satisfying dinner of classic Périgord specialties at a charming rural auberge.
Day 6 — Kayaking on the Dordogne & La Roque-Gageac
Experience the Dordogne from its most majestic perspective with a scenic kayak descent down the river. Paddle gently past the iconic, cliff-clinging village of La Roque-Gageac and the towering battlements of Castelnaud, viewing these historic sites as medieval travelers once did. A revitalizing riverside picnic awaits before you enjoy a free afternoon exploring the narrow streets of La Roque-Gageac or simply relaxing in the peaceful Périgord countryside.
Day 7 — Sarlat-la-Canéda & Local Markets
Wake up to the irresistible pull of Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, famous for its golden stone architecture. Spend the morning immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the lively markets, sampling regional delicacies. The afternoon is dedicated to meandering through ancient Renaissance mansions and shaded squares, with the option to deepen your experience with an evening gastronomy tour or seasonal truffle tasting.
Day 8 — Prehistoric Wonders of the Vézère Valley
Step back in time today as you embark on a guided tour of Lascaux IV, witnessing the stunning, flawless replica of the world’s most famous prehistoric cave art—a breathtaking immersion into the artistry of Paleolithic humans. Continue to Les Eyzies, the World Capital of Prehistory, where the National Museum offers deeper insights, with an optional visit to an authentic decorated cave like Font-de-Gaume to see original $17,000$-year-old drawings.
Day 9 — Gardens of Marqueyssac & Domme Bastide
Your morning is spent wandering the exquisite Gardens of Marqueyssac, a labyrinth of sculpted boxwood hedges overlooking the river and providing some of the most spectacular, sweeping views of the entire Dordogne Valley. In the afternoon, explore Domme, a stunning fortified bastide perched high on a cliff. The day concludes with a memorable farewell dinner, a true gastronomic celebration of the Périgord’s finest: truffles, walnuts, duck specialties, and local wines, toasting to the journey’s memories.
Day 10 — Rocamadour & Return to Bordeaux for Departure
Venture to the spectacular religious sanctuary of Rocamadour, a sacred village seemingly emerging miraculously from a towering cliff face. Afterward, begin your scenic return transfer to Bordeaux, arriving in the evening for a final, reflective dinner in the city.
Start Planning Your Custom Itinerary
The trip highlights above are just a starting point. Whether you want more wildlife, cultural depth, or beach time, we’ll tailor every detail. Get in touch to begin crafting your personalized France experience.