Wine and Ocean

This itinerary showcases what Bordeaux is best known for along with something a little unexpected. Based in the vineyards, you will have an opportunity to explore both the right and left banks of Bordeaux with a full day dedicated to each. Your private tours and tastings at some of Bordeaux’s most unique châteaux will span such appellations as Pessac-Léognan, Margaux, Pauillac, Saint Emilion and Pomerol, interspersed by memorable lunches overlooking the vines. You will also enjoy a full day exploring the magnificent coastline including a private cruise of the stunning Bassin d’Arcachon, a natural bay famed for its oyster villages, soaring dunes and pristine beaches. Come enjoy what Bordeaux is best know for and something more surprising.

Day 1

Upon your arrival in Bordeaux, you will be welcomed by a member of our team. You will then be taken by private transfer to your accommodations in the Bordeaux’s famed vineyards. The evening will be yours to relax and settle into your accommodations before enjoying a welcome dinner for you and your party.

Day 2

Today will be all about Bordeaux’s famed left bank, more precisely the Médoc, which is home to 60 of the estates classified in 1855 for their exceptional quality. Your private guide and a driver will meet you at your accommodations. You will journey up the beautiful Route des Châteaux surrounded by vineyards and the stunning architecture of dozens of châteaux. Your guide will explain the history and nuances of this region and why the wines produced here are so very special. Your day will include private tours and tastings at two of the Médoc’s classified growths and lunch at a cozy brasserie featuring fantastic regional cuisine and exceptional local wines. Following your second visit, you will then head back down through the vineyards of the Médoc to your accommodations.

Day 3

Your second full day will be spent exploring Bordeaux’s right bank, home to the world-famous appellations of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol. With your guide, you will enjoy private tours and tastings at two very different châteaux where you will note the difference in the wines made in each appellation. You will enjoy several tastings at each winery, including a number of prized vintages. For lunch, you’ll head to the ancient village of Saint-Emilion where you will enjoy fine food and wine surrounded by centuries of history. You will have time to explore the storied streets of the village, its cloisters and even procure some local wines to take home. This wonderful day will end with a drop-off back at your accommodations.  

Day 4

Today you will head to the coast for a day of nautical adventures. Your boat and captain will be waiting for you at the jetty in the seaside town of Arcachon. Your private boat will provide a unique vantage point from which you can take in everything the bay has to offer, from stunning sand banks and enormous sand dunes to the freshest seafood plucked straight from the deep blue waters of the bay. Onboard you will enjoy wine and local bites before disembarking at the village of l'Herbe to taste fresh oysters and shrimp from a prime position overlooking the bay. You will then return to your pinasse to continue your day exploring the Bassin. Your day will include cruising through the quaint pastel-colored fishing villages, mooring at the sandbanks for a stroll on the pristine white sand and admiring the stunning Dune du Pyla, Europe's largest sand dune soaring 200 feet over the bay.

Day 5

After a leisurely morning, your driver will take you to your chosen point of departure or onwards to your next experience in this beautiful region.