Normandy, Brittany, Paris & the Loire Valley

Tour begins: 6:30 PM, Trianon Palace Versailles. A transfer is included from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, less than a mile from Château de Versailles. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.

Begin your journey with a visit to Giverny, where the spirit of Monet's masterpieces still lingers in the tranquil gardens that inspired his iconic water lilies. Continue to the seaside glamour of Deauville, known for its wide sandy beaches, Belle Époque villas, and the storied Planches boardwalk. Settle into the historic Hotel Barrière Le Normandy, where dinner is at your leisure this evening.

Stroll the cobbled streets of Honfleur, a picturesque port town that has long inspired artists with its timeless harbor, slate-roofed houses, and lively quays. Wander through narrow lanes lined with galleries and cafés, where Impressionist painters once found light and color in everyday scenes. Visit Sainte-Catherine Church, built entirely of wood by 15th-century shipwrights, and pause along the Old Basin to take in the reflections of boats rocking at anchor. Return this afternoon to Deauville and the elegant Hotel Le Normandy, set just steps from the sea. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore as you wish.

A poignant moment on your journey is a visit to the beaches on which Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944 – known forever after as "D-Day" – to begin the World War II liberation of Europe and the long march to Berlin. A local WWII historian joins you to offer insights into the sacrifices and resilience of those who lived through this defining period – a thoughtful reflection on the region's wartime history. Your memorable visit includes a look at a private World War II memorabilia collection and a hands-on exhibit; and guided visits to Pointe du Hoc, the 100-ft. cliff taken by the 2nd Ranger Battalion on D-Day... the now-quiet Omaha Beach, where American assault units took heavy casualties in establishing a beachhead... and the poignant American Military Cemetery, final resting place of thousands of U.S. troops. Reflect on the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought here during a visit to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer. Arrive late day in St. Malo (or Dinard).

Begin your day with free time to explore St. Malo, a historic walled city known for its maritime heritage and pirate lore. or unwind with a spa experience. Later, visit the coastal town of Cancale, known for its stunning sea views and world-renowned oysters, and return to your hotel.

Venture to Mont St. Michel, one of Europe's most iconic pilgrimage sites, perched high on a rocky islet. Discover the thousand-year-old Benedictine abbey that has stood against the tides of time. According to legends, the abbey, once totally unreachable at high tide, was constructed on that site at the request of Archangel Michael and has remained since the 8th century as one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe. Today's well-timed visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site requires a bit of steep walking, but you'll discover a unique place beautifully adapted to its natural environment. Continue to your seaside retreat in Port du Crouesty for a two-night stay, where dinner is at your leisure this evening.

If you wish, begin your day with a nature walk along Brittany's coastal trails to Le Petit Mont, a Neolithic site layered with Roman and WWII history. Later, enjoy a private sightseeing cruise from Vannes, gliding past quiet bays, rugged shoreline, and renowned oyster beds, with lunch onboard. Step inside the medieval walls of Vannes this afternoon, with time to explore its cobbled streets, boasting half-timbered houses and a soaring Gothic cathedral; return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Depart the Brittany coast for the Loire Valley, stopping at Château d'Angers to view the renowned Apocalypse Tapestry, a stunning medieval masterpiece. Arrive at Château de Rochecotte for a two-night stay, once the estate of diplomat Prince Talleyrand and the Duchess of Dino. Enjoy dinner at the château this evening.

Spend the day exploring the grand estates of the Loire Valley, including a visit to Château de Villandry, known for its spectacular Renaissance gardens; take in the stunning beauty of its gardens and architectural elegance. This evening, experience a Tauck exclusive at Château de Champchevrier, a historic estate passed down through generations of the same family. You'll meet a member of the Champchevrier family, attend a reception and dinner, and witness a hunting hound demonstration.

Conclude your travels through Northern France with a scenic drive to Paris, passing through the picturesque countryside that has inspired artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. In the Loire Valley visit Le Clos de la Meslerie, a traditional vineyard and winery producing white wines, primarily from Chenin Blanc; the estate is known for producing "natural wines" – wines from organically grown grapes, often vinified with native yeasts and limited additives. Here you'll be welcomed by the owner, Peter Hahn – an American-born former finance professional who restored the small organic estate and later chronicled his shift from corporate life to winemaking in his memoir Angels in the Cellar. Tour the home and cellar, and enjoy a wine tasting with a light lunch. Note: Select small group departures (see dates and prices under "Pricing & Availability") will stay at legendary Le Meurice; all other departures stay at Le Scribe Paris Opéra.

Begin your final full day in Paris with a guided walking tour where history unfolds at every turn. Then, step aboard a private vessel for a leisurely lunch cruise along the Seine, viewing some of the city's most iconic landmarks – from the soaring spires of Notre-Dame to the graceful arches of Pont Alexandre III. As you glide beneath the bridges of Paris, you'll see the city from a perspective that has provided inspiration for poets, painters, and filmmakers for generations. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore Paris at your leisure, as you please.

Your adventures through the "City of Light" continue today with an opportunity to view works of art that have defined generations at one of the city's premier museums. After an afternoon of free time to do (and explore) as you wish, return to your hotel for a special farewell reception and dinner, celebrating the journey and the memories that you have made along the way.

Tour ends: Paris. A transfer is included from Tauck's hotel to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports or Paris train stations. Allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.