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Dordogne & Bordeaux Biking
Dordogne River Valley & a Taste of Bordeaux
Embark on a cycling journey through two of France's most alluring regions. In the lush Dordogne, pedal through a mystical landscape, where ancient castles mingle with precariously perched villages, and farmers, seemingly unaffected by the modern age, tend to their crops. Behold 20,000-year-old cave paintings, still brilliant in color, reminding you that this region is considered the "cradle of humankind." Make your way to the world-famous Bordeaux wine region, where the simplicity of fertile vineyards, bucolic medieval villages and Romanesque churches is juxtaposed with the elegant facades and lavish interiors of the chateaux-turned-hotels. Bike leisurely from one domaine to the next and savor outstanding wines of the local terroir. Throughout the week, Michelin-starred dining and plush accommodations will have you raising a glass to the good life.
Request an itinerary here or reserve this trip now.
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• A perfect duo of the Dordogne's colorful history and Bordeaux's renowned viticulture
• Prehistoric cave paintings at Font-de-Gaume
• Private wine tastings with local experts
• Pedal by world-famous Bordeaux Grand Cru vineyards
• St-Emilion, whose history dates back to the 2nd century
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Day 1 Vitrac
Meet in Brive-la-Gaillarde. Bike into the heart of the Dordogne, past cozy villages, shaded forests, walnut groves and tobacco fields. Consider stopping at privately owned 12th-century Chateau de Monfort, perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River.
• One night at Domaine de Rochebois. An elegant member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, with a dazzling swimming pool, formal gardens and unsurpassed views of the Dordogne River Valley.
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Day 2 Tremolat
Pedal quiet lanes along the river to La Roque-Gageac, a stunning town carved out of honey-colored limestone. Skirt Chateau de Castelnaud, one of the region's most impressive fortified castles, before tackling hills en route to Les Eyzies, the "Capital of Prehistory." A tour of the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume introduces you to France's finest collection of polychrome cave paintings dating back 20,000 years.
• One night at Le Vieux Logis. An enchanting Relais & Chateaux-member manor house with idyllic gardens, stylishly decorated guest rooms and an inviting swimming pool.
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Days 3-4 Monestier
Spin from the lush forested Dordogne River Valley to the rolling vineyard-dotted landscape near Bergerac. En route, feast on a Perigordian lunch prepared by our friend Monique while savoring views from her hilltop garden. Indulge in a glass of Monbazillac's distinctive sweet white wine during an exclusive tour and tasting at the 16th-century chateau. Bike undulating terrain past centuries-old churches, scenic countryside and inviting hamlets.
• Two nights at Chateau des Vigiers. Known locally as "little Versailles," this spectacular hotel, built in the 16th century, is beautifully decorated with antiques and even has its own vineyard and 27-hole golf course.
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Days 5-6 st-emilion
Explore Gallo-Roman ruins in Montcaret. Bike into the heart of the Bordeaux wine region to the medieval village of St-Emilion, a World Heritage site. Praise the region's clay terroir over a glass of St-Emilion's justly coveted red. Join an expert oenologist at the local wine school, Vignobles & Chateaux, for a private tasting. Ride among world-famous vineyards. Enjoy a walking tour along the cobblestone streets of historic St-Emilion. Cap off your trip with a visit to a premier Grand Cru chateau for a tour and formal degustation.
• One night at Hostellerie de Plaisance. Perched above the Dordogne Valley and St-Emilion's celebrated vineyards, this enchanting Relais & Chateaux property offers well-appointed rooms and Michelin-starred cuisine.
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Dates: May 23-28, Jun 27-Jul 2, Jul 11-16, Jul 25-30, Sep 12-17, Sep 19-24, Sep 26-Oct 1
Length: 6 days/5 nights
Level: 2 to 5
Cost: $3,998
Single Supplement: $1,010
Meals: All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
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