Gems of the Seine & Beautiful Bordeaux

Hike to King Richard the Lionheart’s Château Gaillard, or journey to Lyons la Forêt, one of the most beautiful villages of France, and visit Fleury-la-Forêt Castle. Sample cider, the region’s specialty, after touring this exquisite example of 17th century architecture. Alternatively, join your local guide for a walking tour of the quaint village of Les Andelys, or take a bicycle tour through this beautiful village, set on the banks of the Seine.

Get a glimpse of what the Somme battlefields might have been like for those caught up in this terrible World War I battle, which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers. This full-day excursion commemorates the 103 years since, and includes a visit to the Australian National Memorial, containing the newly built Sir John Monash Centre, and the Victoria School in Villers-Bretonneux. Alternatively, explore the collection of Impressionistic paintings, including masterpieces by Renoir and Monet, at the Museum of Fine Arts, which was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte (seasonal option, will be replaced with Joan of Arc Museum when not available).

Explore Honfleur, with its quaint architecture, relaxed coastal atmosphere and colourful fishing boats bobbing up and down on its waters. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the beautiful La Côte Fleurie region on France’s northern beaches and discover dashing Deauville, playground of the rich and famous.

The estate of Manoir d’Apreval exclusively welcomes Scenic guests for a cocktail event showcasing their prestigious apple spirits. Celebrate your visit to the picturesque Calvados region with a beverage of the same name and let your eyes soak up the surrounding beauty, from the many flowering apple trees to the blue waters of the English Channel in the distance.

Walk the historic Normandy beaches, the site of the D-Day landings, before visiting the Landing Museum at Arromanches. You’ll be struck by the sombre ambience surrounding the 9,387 graves of the Normandy Cemetery. While there, take a moment to reflect on the momentous impact of that day, as you look out from your hilltop position above Omaha Beach. Alternatively, with steep limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically towards the emerald waters of the English Channel below, the beauty of the Alabaster Coast will leave you breathless. Sitting proudly atop this dramatic seascape is the town of Étretat, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and time at leisure.

Visit Fécamp and its mighty palace. Situated in spectacular surrounds the city’s natural setting contrasts perfectly with its architectural centrepiece, the Benedictine Palace. Alternatively, travel to the hilltop village of Bolbec and view fabrics at the fascinating Textile Museum before visiting a nearby Normand farm that produces delicious local cider. For the more adventurous, join a guided cycling tour to the charming village of Villequier and visit the Victor Hugo Museum.

Visit Giverny and Monet’s former residence and gardens. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can explore by bike with a self-guided cycling tour that starts in Vernon.

Built into a steep rock face overlooking the Seine River and the small village bearing the same name, Château de La Roche Guyon is a sight to behold. Experience the opulence and grandeur of yesteryear as you enjoy a classical concert performed by the region’s most reputable musicians. The château dates back to medieval times and you’ll be sure to have fond memories of this special experience for a long time.

Discover the charms of Auvers-sur-Oise and see Vincent van Gogh’s room (seasonal option, will be replaced with Chateau d'Auvers when not available), or step inside the magnificent Chantilly Castle for a guided tour of this remarkable château, set amidst beautiful parklands. Alternatively visit the great stables on the grounds of Chantilly, essentially a palace for horses living on the estate. The stables also house a museum dedicated to the relationship between man and horse throughout time.

Shop with a Chef when you visit one of Paris’ local food markets, and enjoy exquisite tastings (if not availabe will take place in Hofleur), or walk the city with a resident expert and hear tales that only the locals know. Alternatively, you may wish to explore beyond Paris and tour the 17th century estate of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte, Louis XIV’s inspiration for Versailles Palace. Featured in the James Bond movie Moonraker, the Palace of Vicomte has been leaving visitors in awe of its magnificence for centuries.

Celebrate the 2,000-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the estate of Château de la Rivière. Surrounded by the vines, mingle with newfound friends, explore the spectacular property, or discover the artistic heritage of this region and admire a local artist painting the stunning landscape using paint made from the wine grown on the estate.

Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exclusive estate of Château Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy a foie gras tasting at a charming local farm.

Travel the scenic Médoc wine route and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at the Château Gruaud-Larose estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a local château and sample delicious wine produced on the estate.

Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

This morning, venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Château Guiraud dessert wines. Alternatively, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Class estate of Château Myrat for a tasting.

This afternoon visit Roquetaillade Castle; founded by Charlemagne, it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy, or perhaps enjoy a 12 kilometre roundtrip hike from Cadillac to the village of Loupiac.

Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire afterwards (seasonal option, will be replaced with panoramic city tour when not available). Or, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions. For the more energetic, cycle the historic regions of Bordeaux. Cross beautiful bridges to witness sites such as the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, before cycling through public gardens back to the luxury of your floating hotel.

Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local Baltard market. Or climb Europe’s largest sand dune and take in the expansive panoramas. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a local tram to the Cité du Vin museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery. This afternoon, if you fancy something sweet, stay on board and enjoy a fabulous Mademoiselle de Margaux chocolate and wine-pairing event.

Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle including a visit to the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin.

Stroll through the charming Citadel of Blaye, or take a more active walk throughout the town. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road which is named in honour of the WWI Captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century.