Village Life® France w/GOH Travel
Journey Summary
This unforgettable nine-day journey showcases the heart of France in the historic city of Bordeaux, where you’ll discover its UNESCO-listed architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Travel onward to the scenic Dordogne region, pausing in the famed vineyards of Saint-Émilion for a guided tour and wine tasting. Settle into the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, your base for exploring some of France’s most remarkable historical sites. Marvel at the ancient art in Rouffignac Cave, renowned for its prehistoric mammoth drawings, and witness the detailed replica paintings at Lascaux’s International Center for Cave Art. Explore the cliffside pilgrimage village of Rocamadour, another UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll through the exquisite Renaissance gardens at Eyrignac. Drift along the Dordogne River on a traditional gabare boat, visit the storied Château de Beynac, and wander through the charming fortified village of Domme.
Itinerary Highlights
- FREE Airfare:
- Economy class airfare from Boston, New York (EWR and JFK), Washington, DC (BWI, IAD). All applicable airline taxes and government fees are included.
- Accommodations:
- 2 nights at the 4-star Hotel Burdigala, Bordeaux
- 5 nights at the 4-star Plaza Madeleine Hôtel, Sarlat-la-Canéda
- Meals (15):
- 7 Breakfasts, 4 Receptions, 4 Dinners
- Guided Educational Program:
- Bordeaux Historical Tour: Discover Bordeaux's neoclassical Golden Triangle district, including landmarks like the Palais Rohan, Bordeaux Cathedral, and the Grand Théâtre opera house.
- Saint-Émilion Vineyard Visit: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-designated jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion, renowned for its medieval villages and extensive vineyards.
- Rouffignac Cave Exploration: Visit the "Cave of a Hundred Mammoths" in Rouffignac to view prehistoric art, including depictions of mammoths, bison, and horses.
- Les Eyzies de Tayac Museum Tour: Explore the National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies de Tayac, housing artifacts like Stone Age tools and animal skeletons.
- Rocamadour Pilgrimage Site: Visit the cliffside village of Rocamadour, known for its sacred 12th-century statue of the Black Virgin and Child.
- Eyrignac Gardens Visit: Tour the 17th-century Eyrignac manor house gardens, featuring elaborate topiaries and water features.
- Lascaux Cave Art Experience: Explore the International Center for Cave Art at Lascaux, offering a meticulous reproduction of prehistoric wall paintings.
- Beynac-et-Cazenac Castle Tour: Visit the fortified Château de Beynac, perched atop a limestone cliff, and enjoy a gabare cruise on the Dordogne River.
- Domme Bastide Village Exploration: Ride a small train to the hilltop bastide village of Domme, known for its panoramic views and historical significance.
- Culinary Experiences: Savor local specialties such as Cannelés pastries in Bordeaux and participate in wine tastings in Saint-Émilion.
- Local logistics:
- Transfers and luggage handling abroad if you purchased air through SST
and your arrival(s)/departure(s) coincide with the scheduled group transfer(s) - Gratuities to local guides and drivers on included excursions and transfers
- Transfers and luggage handling abroad if you purchased air through SST
- Travel Director and Local Guides:
- GOH Travel Director(s) who are with you the entire trip
- Experienced, English-speaking local guides for included excursions
Your program
Depart the U.S.
Day 1 - May 8, 2025 or May 15, 2025 - Thursday
Bordeaux, France
Day 2 - May 9, 2025 or May 16, 2025 - Friday
Bordeaux
Day 3 - May 10, 2025 or May 17, 2025 - Saturday
Bordeaux for St. Émilion/Sarlat-la-Canéda
Day 4 - May 11, 2025 or May 18, 2025 - Sunday
Sarlat-la-Canéda/Rocamadour/Les Eyzies de Tayak
Day 5 - May 12, 2025 or May 19, 2025 - Monday
Sarlat-la-Canéda/Rocamadour/Eyrignac Gardens
Day 6 - May 13, 2025 or May 20, 2025 - Tuesday
Sarlat-la-Canéda/Lascaux
Day 7 - May 14, 2025 or May 21, 2025, Wednesday
Sarlat-la-Canéda/Beynac-et-Cazenac
Day 8 - May 15, 2025 or May 22, 2205 - Thursday
Bordeaux/Return to home city
Day 9 - May 16, 2025 or May 23, 2025 - Friday
Your hotels
Hotel Burdigala
Located near the heart of Bordeaux’s historical city center, the deluxe Hotel Burdigala is a modern oasis. Each of its 83 rooms are tastefully appointed with luxurious finishes, creating a sophisticated yet intimate environment. The hotel’s Madame B restaurant and bar offers the quintessential French venue for an evening nightcap.
Plaza Madeleine Hôtel
The Plaza Madeleine Hôtel & Spa is located just beyond the ancient walls of Sarlat‑la‑Canéda’s medieval quarter, a short walk from the village center. A grand 19th‑century townhouse, this historical hôtel de charme marries traditional features with French esprit contemporain. Each of the 39 stylish, air‑conditioned guest rooms has been renovated or upgraded.
*Free Int'l Airfare from Boston (BOS), New York (JFK, EWR) and Washington (IAD)