French Heritage

After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before enjoying a dinner at a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes.

Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Here, a superb modern church memorializes the burning of Joan of Arc on this very spot in 1431. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and wander along the harbor or stroll through the colorful streets. Close by, visit a family owned apple farm for apple juice, cider and calvados tasting. Later, arrive at your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.

Journey through bocage country and explore the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defenses huddles the small town – its singular street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, home of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the town’s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional experience to Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties.

Head south through the Loire Valley, stopping to admire the moated Château d’Angers. Cross the river to Saumur, where you’ll join a local vintner for a guided tasting of the region’s elegant wines. Continue to the Château de Villandry, a masterpiece of Renaissance design, where you’ll explore its spectacular tiered gardens – from ornate parterres to tranquil water gardens and an abundant potager. Later, arrive at your chateau hotel, surrounded by extensive gardens of its own, for dinner together.