Bordeaux and Dordogne by Rail

UNESCO-listed Bordeaux, riverside cliffs, and vineyards that stretch toward the horizon – the south-west of France offers a landscape shaped by nature and tradition. Explore Bordeaux’s cathedral spires and wine houses, cruise beneath the cliffs of La Roque-Gageac and immerse yourself in art at the Bassins des Lumières. From the medieval streets of Sarlat to the pilgrimage site of Rocamadour set into the cliff face, this journey reveals the rich character of the Dordogne and beyond.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Travel to France
Travel by Eurostar from St Pancras to Paris, then continue by train to Bordeaux. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a welcome drink to begin your journey in style.

Day 2: Bordeaux
We start our touring this morning with a guided walking tour of the city centre which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. We visit the stunning Gothic and Romanesque Cathedral. Dedicated to Saint Andrew, the cathedral’s history dates back to the 11th century, and features a freestanding bell tower and royal entrance epitomizing 13th-century French Gothic design. The afternoon is free to explore at your leisure — perhaps visit a museum, stroll along the Garonne River, or relax in a café.

Day 3: St Emilion
We spend today in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region, at Saint-Émilion, a picturesque medieval village with narrow, winding streets and an impressive monolithic church. The history of the village dates back to the 8th century when a Breton monk Emilion, who was famous for his miracles, settled in the area. After free time for lunch (own expense), we visit a local winery for a tour and tasting. Return to Bordeaux and visit the immersive Bassins des Lumières digital art centre.

Day 4: Medoc region
Visit a château in Pauillac for a tour of the estate, cellars, and vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive through the Médoc region, stopping in Margaux for a chocolate tasting at Mademoiselle de Margaux.

Day 5: Bergerac to Les Eyzies
Spend the morning in Bergerac, a charming mix of Renaissance and medieval architecture and perfectly quaint streets to stroll. We have free time to explore this historic city. The medieval quarter is filled with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and picturesque squares. Free time for lunch then continue to Les Eyzies, nestled in the Vézère Valley, for a relaxing afternoon. Evening meal at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Sarlat and Rocamadour
Sarlat-la-Canéda has an unmissable old town full of 15th and 16th century houses in an attractively uniform honey-coloured stone. The area, almost without equal in the whole of France, has been protected by law since 1962. We enjoy a guided tour, then free time to explore the market. Cliffside Rocamadour has a fascinating history - after the discovery in 1166 of the undecayed body of St Amadour in an ancient cave made it an important centre of pilgrimage. The views thanks to its spectacular position above the Alzou Valley aren’t bad either!

Day 7:   Full day tour to Beynac, La Roque-Gageac and Domme – all members of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” association.
Located on the banks of the Dordogne, Beynac‘s 14th century fortress towers over the village from its spectacular cliff top perch. Sitting at the foot of sheer cliffs right on the river, the light stone houses of La Roque-Gageac reflect peacefully on the water. The medieval fortified town of Domme sits on a rocky outcrop above the river offering fascinating history and glorious views.

Day 8: Departure
Transfer to Brive Station for your return train to Paris and Eurostar to St Pancras.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion. 

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 35 passengers.  

INCLUDED

• Return Eurostar and regional train from St Pancras to Bordeaux via Paris, returning from Brive
• Four nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at four-star Mercure Chateau Chartrons, Bordeaux, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Three nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at three-star Les Roches Hotel, Les Eyzies, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• One dinner 
• Welcome drink at the hotel on the first night 
• Transfers and full coach touring itinerary including entrance fees as detailed above conducted by tour manager
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £630
• Holiday insurance
• Train upgrade - available on Eurostar only. On the Eurostar this constitutes upgraded seating and light meal with complimentary drink with upgraded seating only on the French railway leg
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls.
• Porterage and gratuities.
  
  

PLEASE NOTE: As with most trains, passengers are responsible for carrying baggage onto and off the train. Baggage can be stored on overhead shelves or at the entrance to the carriages.Trollies are available at St Pancras and Paris, but bags do need to be carried on to the platform.

Travel Editions recommends a luggage delivery service called thebaggageman, where your suitcase can be picked up from your home before departure and delivered straight to your hotel; therefore removing the worry about carrying your cases onto and off the trains. Please click here for more information and we have arranged a 10% discount exclusive to Travel Editions clients off the thebaggageman service. Tel: 01844 264890

HOTELS

Mercure Chateau Chartrons, Bordeaux – 4 nights

This stylish four-star hotel is located in the historic Chartrons district, just minutes from Bordeaux’s city centre. Housed in a former wine merchant’s building, the hotel blends heritage charm with modern comfort.

Hotel Website

Les Roches Hotel, Les Eyzies - 3 nights
This charming three-star retreat is nestled at the foot of dramatic cliffs in the heart of the Vézère Valley, often referred to as the cradle of prehistory.
Surrounded by lush greenery, with a terrace and large outdoor pool, the hotel offers a peaceful and scenic setting. The comfortable bedrooms have private bath/shower, TV, telephone, safe and hairdryer. 

Hotel Website

MORE INFO - Please click here to see full details of this tour