An exclusive wine & food river journey with
Grand Bordeaux
Explore the Bordeaux region by river ship
Your date here
10 +
Group Size
11 / 10
Days / Nights
29
Meals
French river cruising has never been more elegant or refined than on a cruise through the beautiful Bordeaux region. During your cruise, sample Grand Cru Classé wine, delight in a classical concert at Château d’Agassac, learn the secrets of French cooking, and get lost in the wonder of picturesque medieval villages. Relax on board your deluxe river ship, content in the knowledge that another wondrous experience is waiting to greet you at the next port.
Visit
the charming city of Bordeaux along with left and right bank wine regions including Saint-Émilion and Medoc
Explore
the Bordeaux region from Archachon to Cognac with expert guides at each stop providing behind-the-scenes access
Taste
authentic local Bordelaise delicacies along with historic wines and local blends from these famed regions
Day 2
Saint-Émilion
Enjoy a pleasant morning cruise on the Dordogne River to Libourne. While cruising, perhaps try your hand at a masterclass in French cuisine in our Culinaire cooking class.
Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine-growing region. As part of your visit, explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true highlight.
Day 3
Libourne
Join a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th-century townhouses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the estate of Château de La Rivière for a wine tasting or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy foie gras tasting at a local farm.
This afternoon, perhaps join our on board culinary team for a lesson in French cooking or relax on board and take in the riverside views as we cruise toward Pauillac.
Day 4
Médoc
This morning, immerse yourself in the scenic Médoc wine region and discover why it is regarded as the world’s leading red wine producer, then sample the region’s finest at one of its spectacular estates. An alternative for those looking for more activity, cycle throughout this beautiful region stopping along the way for a wine tasting.
Later, visit Château d’Agassac, set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside. Dating back to the 13th century, the château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambiance of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.
Day 5
Pauillac to Cadillac
Soak in the vistas as you cruise past the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac, some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in the Bordeaux region. While on board, you may choose to hone your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight, this remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for a night of entertainment.
Day 6
Cadillac
Venture into the Sauternes region for a delicious wine tasting at the prestigious Château de Rayne Vigneau or cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to taste the exquisite Grand Cru Classé wines of Château Lafaurie Peyraguey. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Cadillac including a visit to Château de Cadillac, a truly beautiful château that dates back to the 15th century.
This afternoon, visit Roquetaillade Castle; it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy or perhaps enjoy a cycling tour through the glorious landscapes of the Gironde towards impressive Château Benauge.
Day 7
Bordeaux
Discover the World Heritage-listed city of Bordeaux with its grand boulevards and architecture.
Today an option is to shop with a chef at a local food market before your exclusive cooking lesson or enjoy a guided walking tour of Bordeaux. Alternatively, cycle the historic region of Bordeaux. Back on board, enjoy a tasting of fresh oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.
Later, during an exclusive after-hours event be welcomed with a glass of champagne as you visit Les Bassins de Lumières, Bordeaux’s former submarine base that has been transformed into an impressive digital art installation.
Day 8
Arcachon
Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local markets, or climb Dune du Pilat, Europe’s largest sand dune. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a tram to the Cité du Vin museum. After a short introduction enjoy an interactive journey around a world of wine and culture on a self-guided tour.
Tonight enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River.
Day 9
Bourg to Blaye
Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary. Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle, visit the 16th-century passageway to the guards' rooms, and see the immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy, and afterward, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin.
This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck while cruising into the historic port of Blaye.
Day 10
Blaye to Bordeaux
Discover the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion. Stroll through the charming town during a guided walking tour, or take a more active walk through the Citadel of Blaye and learn about the defense system that was created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban. Alternatively, join a 30-kilometer roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road or explore the stunning beauty of the fairytale Château de La Roche Courbon, during a guided tour of the castle and gardens.
Later, enjoy a cooking class in Scenic Culinaire, or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands, bound for Bordeaux. Dine at the Captain’s farewell dinner on board this evening.
Day 11
Hondarribia & San Sebastián
We will depart at 9:00 this morning and journey from Bordeaux to San Sebastián, Spain, with a stop along the way to explore the stunning waterfront city of Hondarribia. During a guided visit, we will take in the lively sights of the Fisherman’s quarter and venture up the hill to the walled old part of the city, where we will visit the castle of Emperor Carlos V, which dates back to the times of the Goths. After lunch at a typical Basque restaurant, we will continue on to San Sebastián where we will check-in and have the rest of the evening free.
Day 12
Guetaria
Today, we will travel half an hour west to spend the day in the charming Basque fishing town of Guetaria. We will begin with a visit to the Museo Balenciaga, an impressive museum created in honor of luxury fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga, who was born in Guetaria. The museum is housed between 2 buildings— the mansion in which the designer was born and a modern structure constructed in 2011. From there, we will have lunch at a nearby restaurant where we will be introduced to the txakoli wine of the region. After lunch, we will continue to the town of Zumaia where we will visit a UNESCO Basque Coast Geopark featuring the unique geological landscape of this area. If conditions permit, our visit will include a boat ride showcasing 60 million years of geological history. From there, we'll return to San Sebastián. For dinner, experience pintxos, Basque-style tapas which in San Sebastián are miniature haute cuisine delicacies.
Day 13
San Sebastián
Spend today freely enjoying everything this glamorous city has to offer. Explore the city’s old quarter, home to the city’s two oldest churches and take in the vibrancy of the Plaza de la Constitución, a city square that was once a bullring. Relax on the beautiful bay of La Concha with its golden beach and stunning shores or venture east to Gros, a low-key neighborhood with great shopping. Reunite this evening for a memorable farewell dinner at Rekondo restaurant. Say goodbye to San Sebastián with great company while enjoying a delicious meal, exceptional wine, and a fantastic view of Donostia Bay.
Accommodations
Scenic Diamond
Exclusively reconfigured for cruising the rivers of France, the Diamond affords guests the utmost in luxury, comfort and refinement on these charming and serene passageways.
This vessel boasts all of the luxury trappings you’ve come to expect, as well as a handful of new and innovative features. From the all-weather vitality pool and updated wellness area, to the bespoke cooking suite, guests can enjoy a raft of extravagant features when cruising aboard this revolutionary river cruise vessel.
On top of all-new facilities and amenities, the Diamond boasts the very finest luxury suites in France — each perfectly appointed to afford you a truly luxurious stay.
![]Royal Panorama Suite](https://experi.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/sc-suite-royalPanoramaSuite4.webp)
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra (San Sebastián Extension)
Enjoy this 4-star hotel located right on the beach of La Concha Bay in the center of San Sebastián. This 19th-century building is perfectly situated both a stone’s throw from the beach and San Sebastián’s rich cultural and historical sights. Enjoy spacious bathrooms, comfortable rooms, and incredible vistas of the island of Santa Clara or Xavier Zubiri square from your room’s private balcony.
All of the rooms feature classic decor with features dating from the Belle Epoque era. Rooms feature complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TV, and telephone. Your en-suite bathroom offers a walk-in shower or bathtub, toiletries, a bathrobe and slippers, and a 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: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/agreement.
Ship Inclusions
- Master French cookery in an exclusive on board cooking school, Scenic Culinaire
- In the heart of the famous Médoc region enjoy an exclusive classical concert in Château d’Agassac
- Visit Roquetaillade Castle and be guided through by the current resident whose ancestors have resided in the castle for more than 700 years
- Take in the sights of the spectacular Arcachon region on the Atlantic coast
- Exclusive after hours access at Les Bassins de Lumières, the former submarine base converted into an impressive digital art installation.
- Two Scenic Enrich experiences including after hours access to Bassins de Lumières, the former submarine base converted into a digital art space and a classical concert at the beautiful Château d’Agassac – all Exclusive to Scenic
- Scenic Culinaire – for Exclusive on board cooking lessons
- Personalise your trip with 23 included Scenic Freechoice activities
- Dine at your choice of up to five on board venues, from casual to fine dining
- 29 meals – 10 breakfasts (B), 9 lunches (L) and 10 dinners (D)
- Complimentary premium beverages all day, every day? – not just at meal times
- Butler service for every suite
- Complimentary full mini-bar restocked daily
- Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area
- Scenic Tailormade App for river commentary and independent exploration
- The freedom of our e-bikes – electronically assisted bicycles
- Scenic Cruise Director to guide and assist & expert local guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your cruise
- Return airport transfers
- All tipping and gratuities on board and on shore
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
Categories & Rates*
Diamond Deck
Royal Panorama Suite (RS)
Royal Owner's Suite (RO)
Royal Balcony Suite (RA)
Balcony Suite (A,PA,PP,P)
Jr. Balcony Suite (RJ)
Sapphire Deck
Balcony Suite (C,BA,BB,B)
Single Balcony Suite (BS)
Jr. Balcony Suite (BJ)
Jewel Deck
Standard Suite (E,D)
Extension Rates*
Double Occupancy (per person)
Single Occupancy Only
*Rates are per person, double occupancy in US Dollars.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Learn more about travel insurance and how it can help you prepare for the unexpected at https://experi.com/travelinsurance/
Travel Terms & Conditions
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