Paris to Nice Through Vineyards and Mountains

After meeting the group in the vibrant capital of Paris, we'll begin our journey with a sumptuous welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Cheers to the exciting adventure ahead! Stay: Best Western Hotel Ronceray-Opéra (or similar) (D)

After breakfast, we'll leisurely make our way to Reims – where we'll revel in the opportunity to tour the city's impressive Gothic cathedral. Then: we'll continue to the picturesque Champagne region, where we'll be treated to a delicious champagne tasting at a local vineyard.

This evening we'll explore the romantic town of Troyes at our leisure – admiring the quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses as we seek out some delicious French cuisine for dinner. Stay: Hotel Le Royal (or similar) (B)

On the agenda today: a walking tour of Troyes with our expert Tour Leader. After taking the opportunity to visit the bustling market, this fairytale town is yours to discover. A patchwork of narrow lantern-lit lanes and rustic 16th-century buildings, every twist and turn reveals a new sight or story. And on the menu this evening? Whatever takes your fancy! There's a plenitude of cosy cafes and intimate bistros to settle into for the night. Stay: Hotel Le Royal (or similar) (B)

Late morning our path leads us to Chablis where we'll swap fizz for the dry white wines of Chablis with an included tasting. This afternoon will bring us to Beaune – where you'll have plenty of time to explore the city's famous Gothic architecture before we reconvene for a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant. Stay: Hôtel de la Paix (or similar) (B/D)

Today we'll spend some more time in the beating heart of the Burgundy wine region with a visit to the Hospices de Beaune. Originally founded as a hospital for the poor by the Chancellor of Burgundy back in 1443, this unique building is now a museum – and an exceptional example of 15th-century French architecture. And then? The afternoon is yours for the taking! We recommend strolling the medieval ramparts for an alternative view of the town or visiting the local Burgundy wine museum. Stay: Hôtel de la Paix (or similar) (B)

After breakfast we'll leave Beaune behind and set our sights on the French Alps – but first, we'll stop off at a family owned vineyard for a delicious picnic filled with local produce. After taking in the marvellous views of the surrounding vineyards over lunch, we'll be lucky enough to take a closer look around on a guided tour – with an included wine tasting session to boot.

Later, we'll be introduced to Annecy during an orientation walk where our Tour Leader will share tales of its centuries-old history. Then the evening is ours to savour the town's exquisite local cuisine at our leisure. Stay: Hôtel Hébé (or similar) (B/L)

Venturing further into the French Alp region, today we'll traverse to Chamonix where we'll take to the skies via Brévent cable car. With spectacular views of Mont Blanc – the highest point in the Alps – this is a moment to relish. After, we'll have some free time to explore Chamonix where we can stroll through the market town or bask in the glorious French Alp air, taking in views of the jagged mountains towering over the area.

Back in Annecy, we'll enjoy the evening at a local restaurant where we can clink glasses to another day spent along the road less travelled. Stay: Hôtel Hébé (or similar) (B/D)

After breakfast, the day is yours to spend at leisure in the postcard-perfect alpine town of Annecy. Known for its pedestrianised Old Town, canals that rival those of Venice, the magnificent Lake Annecy, candy-coloured houses and cobbled streets – this lovely town is a must-visit while passing through southeastern France. Stay: Hôtel Hébé (or similar) (B)

Today alpine slopes give way to rugged hills and lavender meadows as we travel to the Drôme region. Before we arrive, we'll stop at a local fromagerie to learn the secrets behind traditional cheese production in the French Alps – and savour the area's unique flavours during a tasting session.

Later, we'll settle into our hand-picked accommodation for the evening, enjoying sumptuous food with excellent company. Stay: Auberge de la Plaine (or similar) (B/D)

This morning, our journey takes us to Provence region. We'll make a stop at Sisteron - where we'll have time to leisurely admire the extraordinary 12th-century Citadel. Perched on a rugged spur, this historic monument bears witness to stunning panoramic views of the valley below and Alps' peaks above.

Later, we'll arrive in our home for the next two nights. Known for its spectacular thermal waters, Gréoux-Les-Bains boasts a historic reputation spanning at least 2000 years. Stay: Hôtel Villa Borghese (or similar) (B)

Stomachs satiated with breakfast, we'll travel to Gorges du Verdon – Europe''s largest canyon that evokes a tranquil atmosphere with its breathtaking scenery – stopping at Lac de Sainte Croix, known as the pearl of the Verdon. Surrounded by the French Riviera, Provence and the Alps, this enchanting location is akin to a fairytale setting where you can relax, enjoy the warm climate and savour the moment. Upon returning to Gréoux-Les-Bains, we'll round off the evening in style: with a farewell dinner to remember. Stay: Hôtel Villa Borghese (or similar) (B/D)

The last day of the tour will take us deeper into exquisite Provençal countryside as we press on to Entrevaux – one of the most beautiful villages in France. A picturesque medieval village along the River Var, we'll enjoy some free time to stroll the fortified walkways to the ancient Citadel – where we'll admire the panoramic views over the valley below.

Then, it's onwards to the elite resort and shining capital of the French Riviera: Nice. After all, there's no better place to end our journey than alongside the clear waters of the Côte d'Azur! (B)