The Bordeaux region in France brings to mind visions of winding country sides…and of course robust red wines. While known for its vineyards, the region in southwest France also offers picturesque towns, beautiful coastlines, and impressive architectural gems. Need more inspiration? Here are eight reasons to visit the famous French region:
- Pack and Unpack Only Once: Unlike a land tour, a river cruise will take you from town to town throughout the Bordeaux and Medoc regions on a river boat, with a new port and a new adventure each day. You’ll relax while the river sweeps you to your next destination.
- La Cité du Vin: Opened in May 2016 in Bordeaux, this modern building – reminiscent of a lighthouse on the banks of the Garonne – is a unique invitation to travel to the heart of wine country and the traditions that it holds. As you enter the Cité du Vin you will enjoy a self-guided tour punctuated by 20 themed spaces explaining the culture of wine in an immersive, sensorial setting. The grand finale of your visit will bring you to the upper level for a gorgeous 360° view of Bordeaux and a complimentary glass of wine.
- Experience Joie de Vivre on the Sun Deck: The confluence of the Dordogne and Garonne Rivers into the Gironde Estuary create beautiful landscapes of picturesque villages, sweeping vineyards, and striking coastlines. Enjoy the sights while sipping Champagne from the sundeck.
- Grands Crus of the Medoc: A trip to Bordeaux is not complete without a visit to some of the famous wineries that call this region home. Sample wines from the finest terroir on earth and learn how these world-famous wines are made – from grapes to glass.
- Breathtaking Views at the Arcachon Bay: From atop the great Dune of Pilat, in the Arcachon Bay area, there’s a sweeping view across the bay to the north, the Atlantic to the west, and the Medoc to the southeast. If oysters are your thing, you’ll enjoy a tasting at a local restaurant before returning to the ship.
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Saint Emilion’s Underground: The name Saint Emilion goes hand and hand with Merlot grapes and world-class wines, but this medieval village has so more to offer. Step inside the biggest monolithic church in Europe – right from the town square, a single piece of limestone was carved into a massive church. You can explore the cavernous space, the hallways below ground, or take a trip to the bell tower.
- Hiking in the Hillsides of Cadillac: From the riverside town of Cadillac, France, take a tour on foot to the surrounding hillsides as buildings give way to fields and vast vineyards. After walking, you’ll stop at a family farm to try some local favorites and, of course, a glass of wine.
- Enjoy a French Meal: A typical CroisiEurope meal is a typical French meal: Refined cuisine, convivial atmosphere, and exciting desserts. Even lunches on board are special – a break from the days’ activity and exploration for multi-course dining. Reminisce about the morning’s excursions over some local cheese, enjoy some ratatouille, and compare the bouquet of unlimited French wines paired with each meal.
Established in 1976, CroisiEurope has been a leader in offering the best value in all-inclusive river cruising for the last 41 years. Based in Strasbourg, France, CroisiEurope is headquartered at the epicenter of Europe with offices in Brussels, Paris, Lyon, Nice, Lausanne, Madrid, London, Phnom Penh and New York. This family-owned company operates 50 ships and a diverse selection of canal, river and ocean cruise sailings that navigate the most famous waterways in Europe, Asia, Russia, South America and now South Africa. Choose from a variety of itineraries from 4 to 26 days and explore picturesque riverside cities & towns in France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Italy & Spain. Or visit the international destinations along the Mediterranean coast, Vietnam, Cambodia or South Africa.
