Traditions & Heritage of the SW of France

This loop from Bordeaux will take you on a journey to the South West of France: vineyards, mountains, cliff-hanging fortresses and rolling hills: you will enjoy all the diversity of this part of France.

Bordeaux region from the Medoc Vineyards

• Start your journey with 4 nights in a comfortable B&B, located in the Médoc worldwide famous vineyards. Your friendly hosts are wine aficionados and will be happy to share their love for the Bordeaux wines and their region with you.
• Built along the banks of the Garonne river the opulent merchants' homes are very specific to Bordeaux. The rise of colonial trade together with the growth of the wine industry contributed to the amazing expansion of the Gironde region during the 18th century. You will find everything you need: from villages nestled into the Medoc or St Emilion vineyards, to the bustling night life in Bordeaux. Also, bear in mind that Bordeaux's Sainte Catherine Street is the longest shopping street in Europe!
• Visit a Medoc wine estate with an English-speaking guide: from the vineyards near the castle to the wine storehouses. After the tour, you'll make your own blend with different varieties and end this 2hr tour with a …wine tasting.
• On the 5th day, you will drive South towards the Basque Country – about 2hr30.

The Basque Country from its beating heartland

• Stay in for the next 6 nights in a former sheep farm, in the heart of the Basque Country: between the Ocean and the mountains and perfectly located to explore the region from San Sebastian to Biarritz. Your lovely hostess will be happy to share some tips with you. At night, relax at the outside jacuzzi or by the swimming pool with a Mountain breathtaking view.
• We will craft your days so you get a feel of everything the Basque culture has to offer, and there is a lot: taste the local “Bayonne hams” after strolling a valley discovering the traditional and still alive mountain pig farming, get acquainted with the Basque weaving tradition, try to make your own Basque cake or stroll one of the many farmers markets.
• Follow a local guide in Biarritz. He will give you the keys to his city and to the Basque culture: so you will understand about the Basque language and the traditions and festivals such as Pelote or Basque Force. You will end this tour at the covered market, tasting some Basque produces: cheese, hams, wines, jams and much more.
• Several “most beautiful Villages of France” will be on your scenic drives – and you may witness there some locals playing the Basque Pelote game at the town’s fronton. Nature and outdoors lovers will enjoy endless walks and hikes in the Pyrenees foothills, occasional walkers will relax on the walks along the beaches and enjoy a coffee at a terrace watching surfers.
•  On the 11th day, you will drive all along the Pyrenees chain towards East and reach Carcassonne.

Carcassonne: Wines & History

• Carcassonne and the Cathar country are quite unknown but do deserve a visit. Carcassonne medieval “Cité” will amaze you by its size and conservation. You will reside for 3 nights in charming B&B in the lively Bastide town, walking distance to restaurants and to the medieval city.  
• In the Cathar country, walkers/hikers will be rewarded with breath taking landscapes and fortresses such as Quéribus or Perpeytuse. History lovers will be passionate by the Cathar history. Wine lovers may be surprised by the quality of the “Minervois” wines which have improved a lot in the past 10 years. They are now on the wine list of some of the most famous restaurants in the world.
• On the 14th day, you will drive about 3 hours North through Toulouse and Lot to get to the Dordogne.

Gorgeous Dordogne

• End your sightseeing journey in Black Perigord where you will stay in an old stone Perigord style house for 6 nights. One afternoon, you will enjoy a convival cooking workshop with your hosts - followed by a mouth-watering dinner shared with Nat & her husband and fellow travelers. 
• You are very close to Sarlat and the prehistoric caves and we will be happy to recommend some intimate visits for you, in 20,000 year old caves. If you are interested in history or if you are a JM Auel reader, these are a must!
• Visit the old city of Sarlat and feel the buzz of activity on market days.  We'll also tell you where to find the most typical goat cheeses - and if you like outdoor activities, you'll be in paradise.
• Eventually, you will jump into the middle ages history with fortresses hanging on cliffs all along the Dordogne river - one of the most famous castles of the area is only a 30-minute walk from your B&B. Also, 4 of the "most beautiful villages of France" are within a 4-mile drive.

On your last day, you can return the car in Brive airport, Bordeaux station or airport...or drive to your next destination.

What a trip !