Self-Drive Discovery of Southwestern France: Brugeilles, Brantôme & Bordeaux - 5 Days

Highlights

• Take a guided hike to see the more than 80 extinct volcanoes of Auvergne
• Visit the centuries-old Benedictine abbey of Saint-Pierre in historic Brantôme
• Soar across picturesque French landscapes in a hot-air balloon
• Sip delicious Bordeaux wines and stroll through lush vineyards on a winery tour

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lyon, Drive to Brugeilles, Volcano Hike & Ecolodge Stay

Welcome to France! Your flight lands in Lyon, the country's third most populous city, known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, and wealth of gorgeous architecture. Upon arrival, you'll pick up your rental car and begin your adventure, driving 2.5 hours west into the Auvergne region to reach Brugeilles, where you'll check into your ecolodge at the foot of the Parc des Volcans (or Regional Nature Park of Auvergne Volcanoes). This nearly 900-acre (400 ha) park is one of the largest in France, home to the Chaine des Puys, a UNESCO-listed landscape of extinct volcanoes, hiking trails, and extensive flora and fauna. 

Once you've had a chance to regroup, step out on a guided hike through the park. Most of the paths here are clearly marked, with plenty of options in length and difficulty. Visit the Puy de Dôme, the highest peak of the Puys chain, or Puy Mary, which rises nearly 6,000 feet (1,787 m) above sea level and offers panoramic views from the summit. You can also walk on parts of the famed paths of Saint Jacques de Compostela, and to the nearby village of Blesle. Your guides can arrange a picnic lunch during the hike, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the many deer that frequent the area.

Speaking of deer, if your tour takes place in early fall, you'll have the chance to experience the Brame du Cerf (Call of the Stag). During September and October, local stags lay claim to their territories and attempt to woo in-season does, bellowing across the valleys and challenging their rivals. You'll be able to hear and sometimes see the deer from your suite's mountain view terrace, and if you like, you can tour the surrounding paths to get a closer view.

Day 2: Drive to Brantôme & the Dordogne Region

Check out of your hotel this morning and depart for Brantôme, a drive of about 3.5 hours. Nestled in southwestern France's Dordogne region, this inviting town is a journey back in time, with historic sites, cobblestone streets, and the backdrop of the Dronne River. Arrive and check into your hotel, then spend the afternoon exploring this charming locale. 

Start with a stroll along the promenade that banks the river, which winds its way through town, earning Brantôme the nickname "the Venice of the Périgord." Walk across stone bridges and take in the historic architecture that feels like something out of a fairy tale. The town's main landmark is the Abbey of Saint-Pierre, a centuries-old Benedictine monastery perched directly on the riverbank. Marvel at its facade and step inside to view its ornate cloisters, gardens, and religious artifacts. You can also visit the nearby Troglodyte Caves, which are carved into limestone cliffs and offer a glimpse into the region's ancient past.

If you're interested in outdoor adventures, take a guided boat tour, rent kayaks to cruise along the river, or head out to the countryside to hike the many woodland trails. For dinner, enjoy traditional Périgordian cuisine at a local restaurant, sampling local specialties such as foie gras, truffles, and duck confit, all accompanied by fine wines from the nearby vineyards.

Day 3: Guided Tour of Château de Commarque, Food Tasting & Hot-Air Balloon 

The day starts early as you travel to Château de Commarque, located approximately 1.5 hours from Brantôme. The once-mighty fortress, built on a rocky outcrop around the 12th century, fell to ruins and was abandoned until its rediscovery in the 1970s. Start with a guided tour of the remains, visiting the Keep, Great Hall, and Romanesque tower. Your expert guides will share insights and anecdotes about the castle as you go, captivating you with the legends, tales, and history of the site.

After your walking tour, indulge in a light snack of local delicacies such as foie gras and nut products, which will of course be paired with delicious Champagne, then it's time to take flight! Climb aboard a hot-air balloon and journey through the skies, drifting over the rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers of the Périgord region, enjoying what feels like endless views of the countryside. Your flight will last approximately 1-1.5 hours, after which you're free to explore more on your own before returning to Brantôme.

Stop at the village of Les-Eyzies, considered the birthplace of this region's scientific prehistory. Visit the Church of Tayac, a 12th-century church with golden-toned stones, or the National Museum of Prehistory and its collection of tools and art objects found at local prehistoric sites. See the Abri de Cro-Magnon, an ancient rock shelter where the remains of early man were found, or the Grotte du Grand Roc, a cave filled with colorful stalagmites and stalactites. The village is also near the troglodytic village of Madeleine, where Paleolithic remains from the Magdalenian culture were discovered. 

Day 4: Drive to Bordeaux, Wines of Saint-Émilion, See Cité du Vin, Gourmet Dinner

Your last full day in France takes you to Bordeaux, a port city on the Garonne River and a notable winemaking region. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, the city is known for its art and history, with more than 350 structures listed as historic monuments, as well as several important art museums. Depart your Brantôme hotel after breakfast, enjoying the scenic, two-hour drive into the region's famed wine country. After checking into your accommodations, learn more about Bordeaux's grape-growing heritage with a wine-tasting excursion to Saint-Émilion.

This region is known for its merlot grapes, which are turned into world-famous wines, and you'll visit a family estate that sits on Saint-Émilion's prestigious right bank. Tour the estate, and educate your nose and palate to identify the aromas and flavors of different varietals. Finish with a tasting of some of the estate's top wines, then continue to a classified growth estate. Learn how a winery achieves this coveted classification, tour the vineyards, and enjoy a tasting accompanied by local French delicacies.

Afterward, return to Bordeaux, where you'll have the option to visit the Cité du Vin museum's permanent exhibition, immersing yourself in the world of wine as you enjoy interactive displays and learn about Bordeaux's role in the wine industry. Your "skip the line" ticket includes a visit to the Belvédère, located on the eighth floor of the museum and offering exclusive tastings alongside expansive city views. Tonight, close your adventures in France with a gourmet dinner. Visit one of Bordeaux's restaurants and feast on local specialties such as duck breast fillet stuffed with foie gras, oysters, and more. 

Day 5: Train to Paris, Depart 

The time has come to say goodbye to the beauty of France. At the designated time, return your rental car and make your way to the train station, transferring to Paris and your departing flight. Au revoir! 

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