46
Guests
8 / 7
Days / Nights
16
Meals
Join us on a journey to explore the legendary wine region of Bordeaux, celebrated for its winemaking traditions and rich culinary heritage, passed down through generations. During our immersive 8-day program, we’ll delve into the acclaimed vineyards of Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Sauternes, and Graves, participate in exclusive wine tastings at prestigious Grand Cru Classés châteaux, and savor the authentic local flavors and delicacies that define this storied region. Along the way, experience the artful blend of tradition and innovation that makes Bordeaux one of the world’s top wine destinations.
Taste
wines from châteaux in Bordeaux’s acclaimed appellations, including Sauternes, Graves, and Medoc
Explore
the charming medieval village of Saint-Émilion including the fascinating underground catacombs and monolithic church
Discover
the elegant neoclassical architecture and historic landmarks of the UNESCO-listed Bordeaux city center
Day 1
Arrival
Land in the Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport where a private driver will be waiting in the Arrivals area to greet you and transport you to our accommodations located in the heart of Bordeaux’s wine country. Take time to get settled, relax, and explore the property. We’ll kick things off this evening by gathering for an aperitif and introductions, followed by a Welcome Dinner showcasing the flavors of Bordeaux.
Day 2
BORDEAUX
After breakfast, we’ll head to Bordeaux city center where we’ll meet an expert local guide to discover the history and charm of the city. Stroll through picturesque streets dating back to the 18th century and see famous landmarks such as Place de la Bourse, with its stunning reflecting pool, and the Grand Theatre, one of the finest opera houses in the world. After the tour, have free time for lunch and an open afternoon to explore the city at your own pace, taking in the pedestrian-friendly shopping areas or perhaps checking out the impressive art collection at the Musée des Beaux-Arts. This evening, enjoy a special wine-paired dinner at the prestigious Château Haut-Bailly, a renowned Grand Cru Classé estate in the Graves appellation.
Day 3
SAUTERNES
Enjoy a leisurely morning with time to explore the amenities of our hotel, including spa offerings, complimentary bicycles, and yoga, followed by an open lunch. This afternoon, we'll venture to the Sauternes appellation, beginning with a visit to a Premier Cru Classé estate known for its exceptional wines. Here, we'll enjoy a guided tasting, discovering the intricate balance of flavors that make Sauternes world-renowned. Next, we'll continue to a second château for a visit to the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting of their Sauternes and a wine-paired dinner.
Day 4
SAINT-ÉMILION & POMEROL
This morning, travel east to the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history dating back to the Roman era. Our guided tour will take us through the charming cobblestone streets and underground to explore the monolithic church carved directly into the limestone rock. Following the tour, we’ll head to a local winery for a tour, tasting, and lunch. Afterward, we'll continue to a second château in the nearby Pomerol appellation, where we'll enjoy a guided tour and tasting, discovering the wines that make this region world-famous for its Merlot-dominant blends. After returning to the hotel, we’ll gather for a light dinner.
Day 5
GRAVES
Spend a relaxing morning enjoying the comforts and services our hotel has to offer. After an open lunch, we’ll explore the renowned region of Graves— the oldest appellation in Bordeaux— where grapes have been cultivated since the Middle Ages. We’ll visit two historic estates, where we’ll learn about the terroir and the philosophy and traditions that have guided their approach to growing grapes and making wine. Enjoy a delicious wine-paired dinner featuring freshly prepared seasonal ingredients before returning to the property.
Day 6
MÉDOC
This morning, we’ll head north to the prestigious Médoc region, located on the Left Bank of the Gironde estuary. Known for its world-class vineyards, Médoc is home to over 15,000 estates and produces some of the finest full-bodied red wines in the world. We’ll visit two highly regarded châteaux, where we’ll explore the cellars, discover their meticulous winemaking techniques, and indulge in a tasting of their wines. Lunch will be served at the first estate. In the afternoon, we’ll return to the property for an open evening. Your Travel Directors are happy to provide recommendations for dinner.
Day 7
MÉDOC - MARGAUX
For our last full day in the Bordeaux region, we’ll venture to the prestigious Margaux appellation, known for producing elegant, refined, and complex red wines, primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, along with smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Visit a Grand Cru Classé estate, where we’ll tour the vineyards and cellars, and enjoy a guided tasting of their prestigious wines. Afterward, we’ll have a light lunch before returning to the property for some time to relax and pack.
Tonight, we’ll gather for a comparative wine tasting that brings together the bold, structured wines of Bordeaux and L’Ecole’s own unique expressions, offering a side-by-side exploration of terroir, varietals, and winemaking styles. Our tasting will be followed by a memorable Farewell Dinner at the two Michelin-starred La Grand'Vigne, where we’ll celebrate our journey and savor expertly crafted dishes paired with exceptional wines.
Day 8
Departure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before taking a private transfer to the Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport. Still hungry for more food-and-wine adventures? Continue your journey with an optional four-day extension to San Sebastián, Spain.
Bon Voyage!
Day 8
This morning, we’ll journey south, passing through rolling vineyards and crossing into the Basque Country on our way to the vibrant coastal city of San Sebastián, Spain. Famed for its stunning natural beauty, Belle Époque architecture, and world-renowned culinary scene, San Sebastián offers a mix of seaside atmosphere and cosmopolitan charm. We’ll stop along the way to have lunch and visit a family-run distillery before continuing to our accommodations. Enjoy a delicious wine-paired dinner this evening with views of the Bay of Donostia.
Day 9
Today we’ll experience the city's renowned pintxos culture during a lunchtime food tour. Stroll through the Old Town, visiting local bars to sample an array of delicious pintxos—from freshly caught seafood to traditional Basque delicacies. Along the way, learn about the region’s culinary traditions, meet passionate local chefs, and enjoy perfectly paired drinks. The remainder of the afternoon and evening will be open to explore at your own pace.
Day 10
Enjoy a leisurely open day in San Sebastián, where the possibilities are endless. Start your morning with a relaxing stroll along La Concha Beach, soaking in the coastal views, or take the historic funicular up Monte Urgull for panoramic vistas of the city. Art enthusiasts can visit the contemporary works at the San Telmo Museum, while those seeking relaxation may opt for a spa day at one of the city’s beachfront resorts. Tonight we’ll gather for a Farewell Dinner at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants and toast to a successful journey.
Day 11
Depart
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the Bilbao Airport for departure flights home. Ondo ibili!
Accommodations
Les Sources de Caudalie
This luxury country estate nestled in the heart of the Graves appellation is surrounded by the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte. The property consists of a collection of contemporary buildings and lake-filled gardens. Amenities include a cigar bar, a selection of dining options, indoor and outdoor pools, and the exclusive Vinothérapie® Spa, which offers grape-based therapies. For those seeking an active experience, the hotel features a tennis court, a three-hole golf course, and nature trails for cycling or running. In addition, the property offers complimentary bikes for guests to explore the surrounding vineyards and nature trails, as well as yoga sessions for relaxation and wellness. The property also has a fitness room to accommodate guests looking for indoor exercise options during their stay. Rooms offer individual climate control, cable TV, WiFi, minibar, and hairdryer.
The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
Details
Dates
Flight Information
Activity Level
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.), which can leave some areas inaccessible. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. If your mobility is limited in any way, or if you have questions, please contact our Guest Services team at guestservices@experi.com.
Note: The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/agreement.
Included
- Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 6 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, and transportation
- Gratuities for travel director, local guides, drivers, porters, and included meals
- Full guiding services of a dedicated Travel Director
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to/from host cities
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Rates*
Classic: $ TBD
Superior: $ TBD
Deluxe: $ TBD
Jr. Suite: $ TBD
Suite: $ TBD
Single Occupancy: $ TBD
Extension Rates*
Classic: $ TBD
Single Occupancy: $ TBD
*Rates are per person in US Dollars.