Excursions on the Gironde

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Blaye Citadel is a historic fortress overlooking the Gironde. You will walk through cobbled streets, offering picturesque views of stone buildings and charming squares. Admire the well-preserved military architecture of the citadel, built in the 17th century by the renowned military engineer Vauban. Passing through the underground passages once used by soldiers to move safely between defensive lines during sieges, you will discover the site's evolution through the ancient structures that Vauban preserved and repurposed. Then, head towards the Blaye coast. Nestled on the right bank of the Gironde estuary, it charms visitors with its rolling landscapes, picturesque villages, and rich historical heritage. It is also a land of vineyards, where winemakers produce generous red wines, primarily from Merlot, known for their roundness, fruitiness, and approachable character. Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux wines elegantly express the clay-limestone terroir from which they originate, offering a delightful alternative to neighboring grand crus. Tasting at one of the finest local producers.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

The Médoc between vineyards, estuary and ocean, with a tasting at a Grand Cru Classé château.Between sea and river, you will explore this peninsula where vines rise between the polders to the east and the pine forest to the west. Surrounded by the ocean and the estuary, the mild and humid microclimate has favored vine cultivation.Arrival at Château Giscours(2), a prestigious estate on Bordeaux's Left Bank. Château Giscours boasts a rich heritage, with vines first planted in the 16th century.Over the vintages, this illustrious property has revealed wines of captivating finesse and elegance, with a refined and distinguished expression, characteristic of the great terroirs of Margaux. The château oversees a 300-hectare estate, with the soul of the property residing in its exceptional 95-hectare vineyard, featuring carefully selected grape varieties perfectly suited to the terroir.A wine tasting is a must.

PLEASE NOTE

• Château Giscours or a similar estate. In case of unavailability, visit to another château.
  
• Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure by coach to discover the Médoc, prestigious wine-growing region. A corner of the world that produces the most prestigious red wines on the planet, tightly wedged between an ocean and an estuary. A mild, humid microclimate which has been favorable to the development of the vines. We will go through most of the Médoc appellations (Saint Julien, Margaux, Haut-Médoc). On the famous Châteaux Route, we will stop to taste the famous wines of the region. On the way you will see major domains such as Châteaux Laffitte-Rothschild, Latour and Mouton Rothschild. Return to the boat at the end of the afternoon.

PLEASE NOTE

• Visit mostly by coach.
• Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.
• Valid only if pre-booked.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure by coach from Libourne for the excursion to Saint-Emilion. Guided tour of the underground monuments in Saint-Emilion village. Your guide will tell you all about the history of the medieval town. You will then visit an exceptional troglodytic site with, undoubtedly, its most original monument, the Monolithic church. Hewn entirely in limestone, it is the largest in Europe. You will then depart for a visit of a family-owned wine-growing estate, where you will be welcomed by the owner, who will explain the stages of the wine-making process in Saint-Emilion. A commented wine-tasting* session will complete the visit. Return to Libourne by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The tour will take place entirely on foot, so wear sturdy shoes
• The visit of the underground sites involves certain rooms which may be poorly lit and confined.
• *alcohol abuse is dangerous to your heath, consume with moderation.
• The order of visits can be modified.
• Times are approximate.

We'll leave on foot to visit the Blaye Citadel, built in the 17th century by Vauban in order to better protect the city of Bordeaux. You will explore the underground passages that soldiers once used and learn how the site was developed using older buildings that Vauban preserved and reused. After our tour, we'll walk a few more feet to a local vineyard and taste some regional products with an excellent glass of wine.*

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.