French Countryside to Spanish Coast Adventure

Welcome to your exciting journey starting in Paris! Upon your arrival, we'll smoothly transfer you to your hotel, ensuring you have a relaxing beginning to your adventure. You'll have some free time to unwind and explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, be sure to check the information boards in the hotel reception for details about the upcoming activities on your tour. Even though the first night isn't an overnight tour, Paris provides no shortage of delightful experiences for you to explore during your free time. The city's enchanting atmosphere is yours to soak in from this first moment. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On day two, we kick off with a panoramic tour of Paris led by a knowledgeable local guide, affording us an intriguing overview of this iconic city. Our exploration will include a visit to Montmartre, a district celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling with street artists and charming eateries. Here, you can savour some lunch amidst the quintessential Parisian ambiance. Post-lunch, we'll head back to the hotel, offering you the option to stop at the Louvre if you wish to delve deeper into art and history at your leisure. The afternoon is yours to explore Paris as you please. For the evening, there is an opportunity to attend a lively variety show, a perfect way to end a day in the City of Lights.

Today we offer a comfortable transfer to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a masterpiece of French classical architecture famous for its extensive gardens. Please note that admission to the palace is not included. After exploring the grandeur of Versailles, enjoy a free afternoon back in Paris. You could take this time to discover more of the city's charms or relax at a local caf. Our guide is available to suggest further interesting activities, such as a scenic boat trip on the River Seine or a visit to the historic Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

We set off early today, leaving the bustle of Paris behind as we head towards the picturesque region of Normandy. Our first stop is Giverny, where we visit Monet's House, beautifully surrounded by lush gardens a significant site in the Impressionist art movement, which began in this very region (admission is included). Continuing our journey, we arrive in Rouen, the capital of Normandy, known for its medieval charm and stunning cathedral. Here, you will have time to wander the quaint streets and savour lunch. Our tour then leads us to Arromanches, where the beaches stand as a poignant reminder of the World War II landings in France. In Caen, we end the day with some free time to explore its vibrant city centre. Please note that from November to April, Monets house does not open to visitors, so our visit to Giverny will not take place during these months.

In the morning, we set off for Mont-Saint-Michel, known as "The Marvel." This iconic site is surrounded by the sea, and you'll have time to explore its charming streets and the renowned abbey. Our journey continues into Brittany, where we'll stop at Saint-Malo, a city prominently fortified by its impressive walls. Here, youll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we journey on to Dinan, a delightful Breton village where we will savour a crepe and a drink. Our next stop is Rennes, the capital of Brittany, known for its captivating and monumental historic centre.

Today we embark on our journey from Rennes towards Angers. For those interested, there is an opportunity to visit the renowned castle, which houses the largest medieval tapestry depicting the Apocalypse. Our tour then proceeds to the picturesque Loire Valley, where we will arrive in Tours the capital of the region, perfectly set on the banks of the Loire River. Here, you will have some time to explore and enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the stunning Chteau de Villandry, famous for its exquisite gardens, where admission to the gardens is included. Our day continues as we reach Amboise, a city celebrated for its captivating medieval quarter, where we will be accommodated. Dinner is included this evening, providing a delightful conclusion to our day's adventures.

On day seven, the journey unfolds with a delightful exploration of the Loire Valley. We begin with a leisurely morning walk through the picturesque town of Amboise, home to the Chteau du Clos Luc, where the illustrious Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. As we delve deeper into this renowned region, we visit the stunning Chteau de Chenonceau, ingeniously constructed to span the river (admission is included), allowing you to immerse yourself in its architectural beauty.Our adventure continues to Chambord, where we will explore the extensive park surrounding the largest castle in the Loire Valley. This magnificent site offers insight into the grandeur of French history and architecture. As the afternoon progresses, we journey onwards to Limoges, an area synonymous with exquisite porcelain production. Here, youll have the opportunity to visit the historic centre, with the impressive Saint Etienne Cathedral as its focal point, if you wish. Each stop on our itinerary unveils the fascinating history and culture of central France, promising a day rich in discovery and inspiration.

We begin our day by departing Limoges for the picturesque Dordogne region, famed for its historic river, charming villages, and stunning landscapes. Our first stop is Lascaux, where we will visit the museum and experience the fascinating replica of the prehistoric cavesoffering a glimpse into the area's ancient past with its remarkable cave paintings. Following this, we head to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Sarlat, renowned for its beautifully preserved Renaissance architecture. Here, you'll have time to leisurely explore, savour local cuisine for lunch, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the town.Our journey continues to the medieval village of Beynac, dominated by its impressive castle overlooking the river. Admission is included, so you can explore this well-preserved fortress and soak in the stunning views. We end our day in Rocamadour, a stunning medieval village dramatically set on a cliffside, known for its important sanctuary. We suggest taking a walk down the Via Crucis and returning via the lift. Dinner will be provided, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day's explorations.

On day nine, we'll explore the remarkable Padirac Chasm, where an underground boat ride awaits 75 metres beneath the Earth's surface. This stunning natural wonder offers a unique perspective of the subterranean landscapes. Our journey continues to Collonges-la-Rouge, a charming village renowned for its striking red stone architecture, situated along the historic Way of St. James. Here, you'll have time to savour a leisurely lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. Later, we'll travel to Saint-Emilion, nestled in the heart of the renowned Bordeaux wine region. This quaint town invites you to unwind and take a leisurely stroll through its historic streets. Our day culminates with an arrival in Bordeaux in the evening. Please note, the Padirac Chasm may be closed from November to March due to weather conditions.

Immerse yourself in Bordeaux, where the entire city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your day with a visit to the renowned "Water Mirror," an attraction that beautifully reflects the surrounding architecture, before wandering through the historic old town with its cosy, pedestrian-friendly streets and magnificent 11th-century cathedral. Afterwards, enjoy your free time strolling along the banks of the Garonne River. Here, charming restaurants invite you to savour a delightful lunch. Alternatively, delve into the world of wine at the Cit du Vin, an impressive museum offering an interactive exploration of wine's history and production. We then journey towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. Spend some time at the revered sanctuary, where we suggest participating in the atmospheric candlelit procession. Your evening will culminate with a provided dinner.

Our day begins with a journey through southern France, starting with the captivating city of Carcassonne. Youll have time to wander and enjoy lunch in this famed city, known for its robust medieval walls, an impressive castle, and the picturesque historic district of La Cit. Following our exploration, well continue towards the majestic Pyrenees mountain range, making a brief stop in the charming medieval town of Foix, celebrated for the imposing Chteau de Foix. As we traverse through the Pyrenees, well catch glimpses of its snow-capped peaks before arriving in the small nation of Andorra, where Catalan is the official language. En route, we will pause to admire the quaint 12th-century Romanesque church of Sant Joan de Caselles. Our final destination for the day is Andorra la Vella, Andorra's bustling capital. Youll have the opportunity to explore the city's lively commercial life or perhaps visit Caldea, the largest thermal spa in Europe. Dinner will be provided to conclude the days adventures.

Today, you'll have free time in Andorra to indulge in some shopping or a leisurely stroll around the city. After lunch, we'll set off for Catalonia, travelling through picturesque mountain landscapes to reach the magnificent abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat. Here, you'll enjoy a scenic ride on the rack train, which is included, to witness the breathtaking views from the mountain. After exploring the sanctuary, we'll continue our journey towards Barcelona, arriving in the late afternoon.

This morning, we embark on a panoramic tour of Barcelona, one of Europe's most captivating cities. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona is famous for its stunning modernist architecture by Gaud, its bustling thoroughfare La Rambla, and its significant historical events, such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympics held here. You will have the afternoon at your leisure to explore. In the evening, we will transfer you to Maremagnum, a lively modern complex for entertainment and dining located by the sea near Plaza de Coln. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely promenade and select from the diverse dining options available.

As we journey south along the Mediterranean coast, our first stop will be in the delightful walled town of Pescola. This charming seaside location, surrounded by stunning vistas, invites us to take a leisurely stroll and immerse ourselves in its unique atmosphere. Continuing our exploration, we'll arrive in Valencia around lunchtime. Known for its vibrant port and dynamic culture, Valencia is the perfect place to sample the renowned paella. Later, at approximately 4:30 p.m., we'll advance towards Madrid, stopping briefly at Valencia's avant-garde City of Arts and Sciences, a striking architectural complex. Our arrival in Madrid is anticipated between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m., where we'll welcome you to the city with a transfer to the lively Plaza Mayor. This bustling square offers an array of restaurants where you can enjoy traditional pinchos or a glass of wine. Please note, the journey from Valencia to Madrid might also be conducted via high-speed train, depending on the group size.

Today, dive into the heart of Madrid with a captivating morning tour featuring some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcal, and Plaza Mayor. Our journey continues to the serene Retiro Park, a verdant retreat in the city's hustle and bustle, where you can admire the tranquil lake and the graceful Palacio de Cristal. Well then visit the famous Santiago Bernabu Stadium, the storied home of Real Madrid, often hailed as the world's greatest football clubadmission is included. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Later in the evening, a return transfer to the hotel will be provided, allowing you to reflect on the day's adventures.

Following a morning meal, our adventure concludes, but the lasting memories of our journey remain with you.