Day 1 - Arriving in Bordeaux we check into Sources de Caudalie,
located in Martillac. There is no word in English for 'Caudalie'. Nor does Les Sources de
Caudalie have any equivalent. It is a unique concept that brings together the sophistication
of the grape and the art of haute cuisine. We will enjoy a welcoming Champagne Reception and
dinner at the Restaurant La Grande Vigne at the hotel. Afterwards we will relax and get a good
night's rest before our next day's travel. www.sources-caudalie.com
Day 2 - Our group gathers in the morning and departs for the
drive to le Pays Basque. On the way, we will stop for lunch on the road at a location to
be announced during our journey. Along the way, we will take in the Basque
region's beautiful countryside scenery. Reaching our destination of
Biarritz, we will check into Hotel du Palais. We'll then get ready for a
special dinner in a famous Biarritz seafood restaurant. www.hotel-du-palais.com
Bordeaux
As far back as the 3rd century BC, wine has defined Bordeaux's history. The Romans planted vineyards
in what was to become Saint-Émilion as early as the 2nd century AD. Because of the region's combination
of soil and climate, it continues to produce more fine wine than any other region in the world. From its
247,000 acres of vineyards, this region typically yields around one-quarter of France's total wine
product of which 75 per cent is red.
Among the four principal red wine areas near Bordeaux, is Saint-Émilion, along with the Medoc,
Graves and Pomerol. Saint-Émilion's history goes back to prehistoric times and is a World Heritage
site with fascinating Romanesque churches and ruins stretching along charming, picturesque streets.
One of the many famous châteaux in Bordeaux is Château Figeac, a very ancient estate going back at
least to the 2nd century AD. Figeac belonged to the same family for more than 500 years and continues
to be the largest estate in the commune of Saint-Emilion. The central part of the château, built in a
very pure, classical architectural style dates from the late 18th century. Bordeaux is an excellent
region for visiting its many châteaux and enjoying wine tasting tours of numerous surrounding vineyards.
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