Scenic Bordeaux and Wine Regions Self Drive

Welcome to Bordeaux, upon arrival pick up your car rental at the airport and drive to your hotel for check-in. You start your French romantic getaway as you explore Bordeaux at your own pace. With 2000 years of history and a timeless charm, Bordeaux stands as the world-renowned wine capital. Much of its 18th-century areas have been listed as World Heritage sites by UNESCO and for good reason, Bordeaux boasts the most protected buildings in France, second only to Paris! Its historic center showcases exceptional architectural heritage, including the Grand Theatre, the Place de la Bourse, the entire facade along the quays and the Chartrons district, the birthplace of Bordeaux's wine trade. Perhaps you may choose to book our optional tours. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Bordeaux

In the morning after breakfast, start your day exploring the picturesque wine regions and vineyards. Stroll through lush landscapes, visit charming wineries and savor world-class wines as you immerse yourself in the rich viticultural heritage that makes this area renowned. A perfect day for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In the afternoon walk through the market and wander the historic streets. Visit the famous Capucins Market, taste local foods and learn about local legends. With over 2,000 years of history, something is interesting around every corner. Explore the city center on foot, bike, Segway or electric scooter. In the evening, drive back to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Bordeaux

Today after breakfast, drive to the Atlantic coast to climb the Pyla Sand Dune, the largest in Europe! Enjoy stunning views of the ocean, bay and forest. In the Bay of Arcachon, you may choose to experience traditional oyster culture with a tasting at a local producer, accompanied by a glass of white wine. In the afternoon, you may choose to drive through the Medoc's Castle Route and visit a charming family-run estate like Chateau Lamarque or Chateau Chasse-Spleen. Experience the intimacy and authenticity of a private castle, touring vineyards, vat rooms and cellars. Drive back to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Bordeaux

After breakfast, drive from Bordeaux to Perigueux, the capital of the Dordogne region. Located in southwestern France, Dordogne is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history and exceptional cuisine. While not as famous as Bordeaux, the Dordogne produces notable wines, including those from Bergerac and Monbazillac. As you travel, enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, vineyards and quaint villages, offering a delightful introduction to the region’s natural beauty. En route to Perigueux, visit Saint-Emilion, a picturesque village renowned for its exquisite wines and medieval charm. Explore its cobblestone streets, historic sites and stunning vineyards. This stop offers a perfect glimpse into the region's rich viticultural and cultural heritage. Upon arrival in Perigueux, check in and relax. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Perigueux

Today after breakfast, drive to Sarlat-la-Caneda, a charming town in the Dordogne department known for its honey-colored buildings, winding alleyways, and hidden squares. Renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval architecture, Sarlat is a great base for exploring the Vezere Valley. Its historical charm makes it a popular spot for film directors and tourists. Then, dive underground to immerse yourself in prehistoric times on a historical tour of Dordogne’s cave paintings (Lascaux IV Cave and Rouffignac Cave). Approximately 17,000 years ago, unknown artists created several cave paintings in the area. Explore these paintings and learn about the people who created them. Visit the National Prehistory Museum, which opened in 2004. It possesses the world's largest collection of prehistoric artifacts. Drive back to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Perigueux

After breakfast, you will have the opportunity to visit Gouffre de Padirac and explore the village of Rocamadour. Gouffre de Padirac, a magnificent natural cave system in the Lot department. Descend into the cavern and embark on a boat ride through an underground river, marveling at the stunning stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean lakes. The mystical ambiance and dramatic rock formations make it an unforgettable experience. Later, you will drive towards the village of Rocamadour, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Alzou Canyon. Wander its medieval streets, visit the revered Notre-Dame Chapel and enjoy the breathtaking views and charming atmosphere. Both destinations offer a unique blend of natural wonder and historical intrigue. In the evening, drive back to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Perigueux

Today after breakfast, start your day by exploring Dordogne's iconic castles: Chateau de Beynac, with its dramatic cliffside position and Castelnaud la Chapelle, renowned for its medieval architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Start with and exploration of Castelnaud la Chapelle, a 12th-century fortress that changed hands during the Albigensian Crusade and was restored in the 20th century to house the Museum of Medieval Warfare. Its keep and curtain wall reflect this historical period. Next, visit the Chateau de Beynac, a well-preserved 12th-century fortress perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley and its five great castles. In the evening drive back to your hotel and enjoy your last night in Dordogne region. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Perigueux

In the morning after breakfast, you will depart from Perigueux for Cahors. As you travel, you will pass through picturesque landscapes offering a peaceful transition between two captivating destinations.  Drive along the western edge of the Causses de Quercy Regional Park, known for its distinctive limestone outcrops and unique landscapes. Consider visiting the Pech Merle cave, a stunning site with prehistoric art, including the remarkable Spotted Horses painting that dates back over 29,000 years. Next, explore the medieval village of Saint-Cirq Lapopie, perched high above the Lot River, featuring thirteen historic buildings and impressive fortifications. Continue your journey to arrive in Cahors by the end of the day and check in. Cahors is a town located in a Lot department setting along the Lot River renowned for its medieval architecture and historical significance. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Cahors

In the morning, after breakfast, you will have the opportunity to explore Cahors and its surroundings. Discover the town’s historic sites, such as the iconic Pont Valentre bridge and the impressive Saint-Etienne Cathedral. Stroll through the charming streets to experience the local atmosphere. Venture into the nearby countryside to enjoy the scenic beauty and unique landscapes of the Lot department, including the distinctive Causses de Quercy. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Cahors

In the morning after breakfast, drive to Carcassonne with a stop in Toulouse to explore the Pink City. Toulouse, known as \"La Ville Rose\" for its ochre rooftops and brick churches, captivates with its Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter), a picturesque maze of coral-colored shopfronts and historic buildings. Nestled between the Garonne River and the Canal du Midi, Toulouse is a lively city with a thriving academic and scientific community, including the Airbus factory. In the afternoon, head to Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The fortified city, with its zigzag battlements, stout walls and spiky turrets, looks like a scene from a fairy tale. To fully appreciate its medieval charm, visit late in the day. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Carcassonne

In the morning after breakfast, you may consider exploring Carcassonne. A fortified city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its impressive double walls, 52 towers and medieval charm. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit the Chateau Comtal and admire Gothic architecture. The city’s well-preserved ramparts offer panoramic views and a glimpse into its rich medieval history and strategic significance. In the afternoon,  you can visit Fanjeaux, a charming medieval village with stunning views from the Belvedere and historic streets, where you can learn about Saint Dominique and the Cathar Crusade. Then you can further drive to Mirepoix, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and central square flanked by half-timbered houses. Thereafter, try to visit Castelnaudary and savor the local cassoulet, a traditional dish of white beans, pork sausage and duck confit. Finally, head to St. Ferreol Lake, a vital reservoir for the Canal offering serene landscapes and a glimpse into regional water management. Drive back to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Carcassonne

Today after breakfast, start your day with a captivating trip to explore two iconic Cathar castles with a scenic drive to Queribus Castle, renowned as the “citadel of vertigo.” This fortress offers stunning, panoramic views and was a crucial refuge during the Cathar Crusade. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, drive to the picturesque village of Cucugnan for a leisurely lunch (not included). Stroll through its charming medieval streets, visit the windmill and enjoy the surrounding vineyards. In the afternoon, head to Peyrepertuse Castle, an impressive ruin perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop. Discover its rich history, connected to the Counts of Barcelona and Kings of Aragon. This itinerary promises a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for a memorable day of exploration. In the evening return to your hotel. You may consider booking our optional tours (To be updated).

Overnight in Carcassonne

In the morning after breakfast, depending on your departure flight timings, drive to Toulouse International Airport and return your vehicle before your flight home.