Vineyards To Castles

There is no region in the world more closely associated with fabulous vineyards than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bordeaux. Located in the southwest of France, not far from the Bay of Biscay, Bordeaux offers about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux and 13,000 grape growers - more than you could possibly try. For an amazing overview of Bordeaux wine, journey up the Castles Route, which runs along the length of the Médoc peninsula. This road passes eight of the most famous châteaux, including Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Julien. Not far off lies the mouth of the Gironde estuary, off the coast of Royan and the Grave headland, where you’ll catch the first glimpse of the famous Cordouan Lighthouse of Le Verdon-sur-Mer, the oldest working lighthouse in France.

There is no region in the world more closely associated with fabulous vineyards than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bordeaux. Located in the southwest of France, not far from the Bay of Biscay, Bordeaux offers about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux and 13,000 grape growers - more than you could possibly try. For an amazing overview of Bordeaux wine, journey up the Castles Route, which runs along the length of the Médoc peninsula. This road passes eight of the most famous châteaux, including Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Julien. Not far off lies the mouth of the Gironde estuary, off the coast of Royan and the Grave headland, where you’ll catch the first glimpse of the famous Cordouan Lighthouse of Le Verdon-sur-Mer, the oldest working lighthouse in France.

The Brittany town of Concarneau holds a rich and deep history, from fishing along the main city’s harbor to its famous walled old town, Ville Close. It’s here your imagination can run wild as you and your fellow explorers traverse the medieval ramparts. You will also find that the past and present have come together, with stone houses converted into crêperies, ice-cream stalls, shops and galleries. Nearby, the quaint village of Pont Aven became a favorite hidden gem of painters, including French artist Paul Gauguin, famous for establishing the École de Pont-Aven art movement known as synthetism. While in Concarneau, listen closely for Breton spoken in the region, a distinct Celtic language that diverges from the usual French spoken in France. The unique Breton culture also offers an array of delicious local cuisine, from mouthwatering butter biscuits known as galettes to fresh seafood dishes like large prawns (camarón) or mussels and fries (moules frites).

With a history dating back to the first century BCE, Saint Malo, France has a deep and profound past that has stood the test of time. From the monolithic menhirs and dolmens of the Neolithic era to the Celtic influences and traditions running through its music, festivals and language, this city holds a fascinating story that every explorer can appreciate. Famous for its remarkable ocean tides, the view of the difference between high and low tide in St. Malo cannot compare. Just outside the city limits are the captivating Rochers Sculptes, sculpted rocks carved by deaf and mute French artist Adolphe Julien Fouéré, hugging the cliffs of the Emerald Coast. The city’s Brittany heritage runs strong in its local fare and you can indulge in a helping of moules frites - steamed mussels and chips (fries).

With a history dating back to the first century BCE, Saint Malo, France has a deep and profound past that has stood the test of time. From the monolithic menhirs and dolmens of the Neolithic era to the Celtic influences and traditions running through its music, festivals and language, this city holds a fascinating story that every explorer can appreciate. Famous for its remarkable ocean tides, the view of the difference between high and low tide in St. Malo cannot compare. Just outside the city limits are the captivating Rochers Sculptes, sculpted rocks carved by deaf and mute French artist Adolphe Julien Fouéré, hugging the cliffs of the Emerald Coast. The city’s Brittany heritage runs strong in its local fare and you can indulge in a helping of moules frites - steamed mussels and chips (fries).

Located along the southern bank of the Seine River, the charming port city of Honfleur is characterized by its picturesque houses with slate-covered facades, a captivating aesthetic that has been many the subject and inspiration for painters through history. While France is world-renowned for its cuisine, Normandy stands out as a foodie destination. Local Camembert, Livarot and Neufchatel cheeses are delicious enough to entice travelers to stay, but a trip to Normandy is not complete without sampling the tripes à la mode de Caen, a French stew combining tripe with ox feet, vegetables, herbs and spices, cider and apple brandy. From Honfleur, you could choose to make a trek to the City of Lights, Paris, the fashion capital of the world. Iconic tourist attractions like the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower make it easy to see how the city has enjoyed such lasting power in the minds of wanderers and locals alike, but its smaller neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais are where everyday life truly shine.

Located along the southern bank of the Seine River, the charming port city of Honfleur is characterized by its picturesque houses with slate-covered facades, a captivating aesthetic that has been many the subject and inspiration for painters through history. While France is world-renowned for its cuisine, Normandy stands out as a foodie destination. Local Camembert, Livarot and Neufchatel cheeses are delicious enough to entice travelers to stay, but a trip to Normandy is not complete without sampling the tripes à la mode de Caen, a French stew combining tripe with ox feet, vegetables, herbs and spices, cider and apple brandy. From Honfleur, you could choose to make a trek to the City of Lights, Paris, the fashion capital of the world. Iconic tourist attractions like the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower make it easy to see how the city has enjoyed such lasting power in the minds of wanderers and locals alike, but its smaller neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais are where everyday life truly shine.

Perched along England’s dramatic southern coastline, Portland offers access to some of the region’s most iconic natural and historic landmarks—including the ancient wonder of Stonehenge, just a scenic drive inland. Just across the causeway lies the charming seaside town of Weymouth, with its golden beach and vibrant harbor. Explore the awe-inspiring Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rugged cliffs and fossil-rich shores. Discover the serene beauty of Abbotsbury Gardens, steeped in centuries of horticultural heritage, or step back in time at Portland Castle, a coastal fortress built by Henry VIII.

Cowes is an English seaport town on the Isle of Wight. Located on the west bank of the estuary of the River Medina, it faces the smaller town of East Cowes on the east bank. Enjoy a slice of great British history at Osborne, Queen Victoria’s seaside residence. Stroll along her beach and enjoy the walled garden and Swiss Cottage. There are cultural museums, events and galleries to enjoy on both sides of the Medina. Stop by Cowes Castle, originally built by Henry VIII in 1539 to protect England against the threat of invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire.

Steeped in history and tradition, Dover is famed for its iconic white cliffs, a striking welcome to a land that has long been a beacon of resilience and heritage. From the historic Dover Castle, often dubbed the "Key to England," to the mystical depths of the Secret Wartime Tunnels, take a journey through millennia of tales and triumphs. This regal fortress has stood guard since medieval times and saw the country through WWII. Stroll through the charming streets of Dover, where modern-day life gracefully entwines with tradition. Uncover treasures at the vibrant local markets or indulge in delightful fish and chips at a cozy seaside inn. Immerse yourself in local folklore through charismatic storytelling, reliving legends as old as the land itself. A stone’s throw away from Dover lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with intricate stained glass and a storied pilgrimage history. Dover is more than a destination; it’s your gateway to discovering England’s rich landscape and beyond.