French Gardens: Paris & the Loire

Arrive in Paris, the City of Light, where you are met and transferred to your luxury hotel. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner.

Start your day with a walking foodie excursion that introduces you to some of Paris’ best-loved treats and the vendors who supply them. Then, stroll by the Cuvier Fountain as your guide begins to explain the history of wine in Paris. Continue through the Jardin des Plantes to visit the ecological garden. Pass the Halle aux Vins, the world’s largest wine storage facility, and proceed to Les Arènes de Lutèce (Paris’ Roman Arena). Conclude this special experience by sampling sparkling wines, putting your powers to distinguish between varietals to a pleasing test.

Ride Like a Local on the TGV high-speed train to Tours in the heart of the Loire Valley — a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic towns, landscapes and châteaux. Upon arrival, privately tour the magnificent gardens of the Château de Villandry, followed by lunch on the grounds. Then, transfer to your hotel in the former royal town of Blois.

Begin your day with a private tour of Château Beauregard and its fascinating “Portrait Gallery” garden, followed by a sommelier-led tasting of historic wines and lunch. Afterward, visit the organic kitchen gardens at the majestic Château de Chambord.

Journey east along the Loire River, then up its tributary, the Cher, to beautiful Château de Chenonceau, which arches elegantly over the river’s flowing waters. Enjoy this remarkable castle — once home to Catherine de Medici — without the crowds, thanks to before-hours access arranged by A&K. Take part in a floral master class led by the château’s celebrated chief florist, a winner of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France. Then, proceed to a nearby winery to explore its carved stone cellars and savor a lunch paired with their organic wines. Return to your hotel to cap off your day with an refreshing Scenic Sundowner.

Today, experience the International Garden Festival, which each year brings together leading garden designers from around the world to create themed installations at the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire. Tour the château and its historic stables, and then Ride Like a Local by traditional flatboat as you cruise along the Loire, enjoying a lunch on board. Return to Chaumont for an afternoon exploring the fascinating garden creations and botanical wonders of the festival. Continue to Château de Troussay for a private tour and apéritif with a selection of local cheeses and petit fours. Tonight, dine at your hotel.

Drive to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, set in 2,000 acres of beautiful park and gardens principally designed by André Le Nôtre. Indulge in a picnic created with ingredients from local markets amid the splendor of the palace grounds. Then, explore the astounding palace itself, a masterpiece built out to its full glory by Louis XIV. Proceed to your hotel at Chantilly.

Explore the grand Château de Chantilly, home to one of the country’s best art collections. After lunch in one of its historic buildings, partake in a Chef ’s Table workshop that reveals the secrets behind authentic Chantilly cream, which was first served at this castle during a lavish party held for Louis XIV. Return to the hotel for time at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to Charles de Gaulle airport for your departing flight.