SHORE EXCURSIONS

Sample wine at a leading chateau in the region famous for its wines, Bordeaux. The region is not only known for its wine though, Bordeaux’s historic city center offers something for all tastes. You’ll enjoy free time here to discover some of its many attractions and lunch on your own.

Your drive to Bordeaux takes you along the famous Medoc wine road, Route des Châteaux, with panoramic views of vineyards as far as the eye can see. The Medoc vineyards are orderly and impeccably maintained, and the famous Chateaux region produces superb wines. Stop to visit the cellars of one of the region's famous château and learn about winemaking techniques before enjoying a tasting of two recent vintages.

Reaching Bordeaux, you’ll have a short orientation of the city before being dropped off to enjoy approximately 3 hours of free time to explore at your leisure. Take advantage of this opportunity to shop, visit museums or just stroll about and discover more about the history of the city. Some of the city highlights are Place de la Bourse, the riverfront, Cailhau Gate, Grosse Cloche from the English Period, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and Gambetta Square. Don’t miss the Grand Theater, one of the most beautiful 18th-century theaters in Europe. The pedestrian friendly city center and waterfront have many shops, cafes and restaurants for you to choose from as well as a number of museums. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful time in Bordeaux.

The timeless beauty of Bordeaux is yours to discover during this orientation tour of the city and its surrounding areas, complimented with free time to do as you please and have lunch on your own. Your drive to Bordeaux takes you along the famous Medoc wine road, Route des Chateaux, with panoramic views of vineyards as far as the eye can see. The Medoc vineyards are orderly and impeccably maintained, and the famous Chateaux region produces superb wines.

Reaching Bordeaux, you’ll have a short orientation of the city before being dropped off to enjoy a few hours of free time to explore at your leisure. Take advantage of this opportunity to shop, visit museums or just stroll about and discover more about the history of the city. Some of the city highlights are Place de la Bourse, the riverfront, Cailhau Gate, Grosse Cloche from the English Period, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and Gambetta Square. Don’t miss the Grand Theater, one of the most beautiful 18th-century theaters in Europe. The pedestrian friendly city center and waterfront have many shops, cafes and restaurants for you to choose from as well as a number of museums. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful time in Bordeaux.

Head to the Medoc vineyards, driving along the famous 'Route des Chateaux' with a photo stop along the way. The Medoc wine road or Route des Chateaux is located between the Gironde esturary and the Landes Forest; providing magnificent views of vine-covered landscape rising as far as the eye can see.

Medoc vineyards are orderly and immaculately well-kept, and the region produces superb wines. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire one of the picturesque chateau; a great photo opportunity. Visit the cellars of one of the region's famous wine makers. Learn about winemaking techniques and tour the cellars before enjoying a tasting of two recent vintages.

Experience the Medoc peninsula through its military heritage and one of its oldest family owned wine estates. A tour full of history and the opportunity to sample locally produced Medoc wines is yours to seize.

A scenic drive through landscapes covered with vineyards take you to Fort Medoc. Construction of the fort was ordered by Louis the XIV and it was built by the famous military architect Vauban in 1690. In 2008, it was inscribed on the cultural site UNESCO World Heritage List. See the main entrance, the waterworks, the underground room and the guard room building.

Nearby is Chateau Lanessan, where you’ll stop for a visit and tasting. The Lanessan vineyard has belonged to a succession of eight generations of the Bouteiller family since the 18th century. The estate is located in the Cussac-Fort-Medoc district, close to Saint-Julien village, in the Haut Medoc appellation area. During your visit, you’ll learn about the history of the estate and wine production, followed by a wine tasting.

OVERVIEW

Explore two modern architectural masterpieces in Bordeaux that make quite a contrast to the city’s hundreds of historical monuments. The cultural center La Méca rises above the banks of the Garonne River and appears to be in constant motion because of its highly unusual single-loop shape. Three different arts agencies occupy the inside of the building, whose radiant façade features thousands of concrete slabs sandblasted to expose their raw qualities. The result is mesmerizing from every angle. The museum La Cité du Vin may appear even more stunning and otherworldly as its curvaceous shape is intended to evoke the soul of wine rather that look like anything recognizable. It is an homage to Bordeaux’s namesake wines and their history and production is celebrated throughout. The interactive exhibits present the information in ways that are meaningful and fascinating. The Belvedere on the 8th floor is an excellent spot for a glass of wine and to admire the 360° view of Bordeaux.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow an architectural historian through two boldly modern buildings dedicated to the arts.
• Gain insight into the architect’s vision in designing the cultural center La Méca.
• Delve into the world of wine in La Cité du Vin, a museum devoted to Bordeaux wines and more.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Bordeaux, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Selfie sticks and selfie photo frames are also available. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Bordeaux, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• National Opera
• Place de la Bourse square
• Porte Cailhau gate
• Pont de Pierre stone bridge
• Cathedral Saint André

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Bordeaux.
• Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• See architectural gems such as the National Opera and Cathedral Saint André.
• Enjoy free time in historical Gambetta Square, a center for exquisite shopping.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.