Board a high-speed train from Paris, watching the urban landscape fade into rolling green countryside as you speed toward the Loire Valley. Transfer to the historic river town of Blois for an orientation walk past half-timbered houses and royal plazas, stopping for lunch at a local bistro. Continue to Château de Cheverny for a self-guided walk through furnished rooms untouched by time, seasonal gardens in full bloom, and kennels still home to the château's working hounds. Arrive at your hotel with a free evening to enjoy at your own pace.
Begin the day in the riverside village of Amboise, following your National Geographic Expedition Leader along historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries. Next, head to Château de Chenonceau, an estate that stretches across the river Cher on a series of stone arches. Meet a local historian for a tour through grand arched galleries, rich Renaissance tapestries, and manicured gardens, learning about the women whose ambition and influence shaped its royal past. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with freedom to seek out a local spot for dinner.
Spend the morning at a family-run winery where the owners welcome you into their vineyards. Walk among the vines, learn about soil health and traditional harvest methods, and taste regional vintages over lunch. Afterward, head to Chisseaux to board a guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River, gliding beneath the arches of Château de Chenonceau. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for a quiet evening and optional dinner with your group.
Board a train south to Bordeaux, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through wide pedestrian squares and past impressive limestone facades. Pause for lunch at Café Joyeux, a non-profit café dedicated to employing individuals with intellectual disabilities. Afterwards, head to the Cité du Vin museum, moving through its interactive exhibits before stepping out onto the Belvedere for a glass of wine and 360-degree city views.
After breakfast, set off to Saint-Émilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Step beneath the cobblestone streets with a local guide for an underground tour of the monolithic church and dark catacombs carved into the rock. Break for lunch on your own before continuing to a winery. Here, join a private tour of the estate and its stone-vaulted cellars, sampling regional Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion wines before returning to Bordeaux for a free evening.
Travel west to Arcachon on the Atlantic coast to encounter the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Climb to the top alongside your Expedition Leader for sweeping views over deep pine forests and ocean waves. Later, head into seaside Arcachon for an orientation walk along the waterfront promenade and an included lunch. Return to Bordeaux for a final evening together, gathering for an optional dinner featuring regional specialties.
