The Wine Routes of France (and Paris)

We depart for Paris.

We arrive in Paris and proceed to the elegant town of Reims. Upon arrival we have an orientation tour and visit Reims Cathedral, where French kings were traditionally crowned. After some time to relax enjoy your Welcome Dinner.

This morning we discover Champagne’s countryside and the manicured vineyards on the “Montagne de Reims”. See Hautvillers - the village of Dom Pérignon, and Epernay where within 110km of subterranean cellars more than 200 million bottles of Champagne are just waiting to be popped open on some sparkling occasion. After some time at leisure we return to Reims for a wine tasting at a ‘Grande Maison de Champagne’.

Leaving behind the vine-covered landscape of Champagne we travel to Metz, which has art and history dating back to the 4th century. We will see the beautifully preserved architecture in the old town, featuring the Cathedral St-Etienne which houses Europe's largest collection of stained glass windows (including works by Marc Chagall). Then we continue to Strasbourg for a 2-night stay.

We begin with a lovely drive along the river and through Strasbourg’s German and European quarter where we see the Republic Square, the European Parliament, the Human Rights Building and the Palais de l’Europe. Next we stroll through the ‘petite France’ quarter with its covered bridges, typical tanner’s houses, astonishing gothic cathedral and astronomical clock. Later we embark on a canal cruise to view this picturesque city from an impressive perspective.

We travel on the famous ‘Route des Vins’ which winds its way through some of the most beautiful villages in Alsace. We will visit Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle – a fortress built in the middle ages. Next is the village of Ribeauvillé where we board the ‘Little Train’ to explore the winding streets and vineyards, and then we proceed to Riquewihr - the most romantic town in Alsace, which is still protected by the old city walls. We’ll stroll the walled city’s cobblestone alleys lined with medieval houses and fountains, ending at a famous cave for a visit and taste of the local wines. We end at Colmar for a 3-night stay.

We cross the Rhine River to Germany and the mysterious Black Forest. In Freiburg’s old city we see the charming lanes and the Cathedral Square with its lively market. Then we travel through the mountains to Titisee Lake, where a typical Bavarian lunch awaits us. After some free time to enjoy the lake views we continue to Colmar.

On our walking tour we enjoy Colmar’s delightful streets; passing medieval homes and shops with ornate wooden facades. We will visit the Bartholdi Museum, featuring original models of the artist’s masterpieces - the Statue of Liberty and the Lion of Belfort, as well as his living quarters and personal memorabilia. Afternoon at leisure to explore the town.

We proceed to Beaune – the wine Capital of the Cote d’Or region - our home for the next two nights. On our walking tour of the ancient walled city we will visit the historic centre with its many wine caves, fabulous restaurants and magnificent Hotel Dieu - France’s most opulent medieval charity hospital.

Today we first explore the town of Dijon - once the capital of Burgundy it is one of France’s most beautiful cities. Our walking tour takes in the old town centre with its distinguished architecture, pedestrian streets, Ducal Palace and the fabulous covered market built by Gustav Eiffel where stalls of gourmet food and products sold around the world are on display. This afternoon we travel along the Côte d’Or - Burgundy’s Fine Wine Road, through vineyards and villages whose names evoke some of the world finest wines. We conclude this memorable day with a visit to a winery for a taste of some fine wines.

We first stop in the lovely village of Vezelay, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. As a starting point on the way to Santiago de Compostela, notice the shells that have been set in the streets by the pilgrims, and enjoy a visit of the Abbey of St. Mary Magdalene - an awe-inspiring building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After some time at leisure we continue to Paris where this evening we enjoy a cruise along the Seine River - a wonderful way to see the City of Lights!

Our city tour will show us the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Opera, Notre Dame Cathedral, Champs Elysees and the historic Montmartre quarter where we visit the Sacré Coeur which offers wonderful views over the city. We enjoy free time here to explore this lovely area and watch the artists at work.

A day at leisure to explore Paris’s infinite choice of attractions. Your Tour Manager will offer suggestions. Our Farewell Dinner will be in a charming brasserie.

We fly home with Air Canada.