Step into the 17th century during an exclusive VIP visit to the largest privately-owned château in France, Vaux-Le-Vicomte, with its magnificent formal gardens. Designed in 1653 by the King's principle architect, Louis Le Vau, the chateau is the embodiment of revolutionary design and set the tone for the classical era of French architecture. The estate's gardens are equally impressive, comprising of 40 hectares of treasures, including decorated fountains, patterned flower beds and timeless statues.
Experience Château Vaux-Le-Vicomte on a walk through the gardens. This evening, return to Paris and enjoy an evening at leisure. If you are traveling on a Chairman's Collection departure, Count Richard de Warren invites you to the luxurious Hotel Alfred Sommier for a traditional Parisian meal and to learn about the history of his aristocratic family. (B/DW)
Enjoy a relaxed start to the day, before embarking on the most quintessential of French experiences-- a small-group gourmet foodie walk through the streets of Paris. Join your Local Expert and food connoisseur and visit a variety of boutique shops, including pâtisseries, boulangeries, chocolatiers, baguette cafes and tiny cheese shops.
Discover why Paris is so famous for its cuisine and meet passionate foodies along the way. Visit the Eiffel Tower for lunch with wine and marvel at vistas of Paris in all its glory. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not ask your Travelling Concierge to arrange a visit to the Lourve Museum? (B/LW)
Join your Local Expert and follow in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh on a guided walk through Arles. Inspired by the wild beauty and sunbaked houses of Provence, Van Gogh painted over 200 masterpieces in and around the town. Stroll along the Rhône River, which cuts through the city, and visit the famous Arles Amphitheatre, dating back to A.D. 90. During Roman occupation, this prominent structure drew crowds of up to 20,000 spectators who came to revel in the excitement of chariot races and bloody battles. Today the amphitheatre hosts plays, concerts and bullfights.
This afternoon, make your way into the heart of Provence to Moulin de Calanquet, an olive oil mill active since the 19th century, and listen to the history of the family as you walk through the olive trees. Discover a variety of aromas and flavours as you treat your taste buds to a diverse tasting of oils, jams and spreads. Continue the day in Provence with a visit of Les Baux-de-Provence. Set atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles Mountains and crowned with castle ruins, this village has a reputation as one of the most picturesque in France. (B)
Journey to the village of Lourmarin and explore the lively market. Walk down the tree lined avenues and browse through local crafts and clothing and perhaps sample some of the local delicacies and enjoy some free time for a light lunch. Experience Provence Your Way. Choose either to join a guided walk through wooded hilltops and valleys, alongside olive groves and vineyards to discover the many works of contemporary art along your way.
Alternatively visit the cellars designed by the great contemporary architect, Jean Nouvel, learn how organic and biodynamic principles are implemented at each stage of the wine-making process before a tasting of the award-winning wines. Journey to the Principality of Monaco, ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century and famous for being the seaside playground of the rich and famous. (B) Stay: Fairmont Monte Carlo.
Embark on a dazzling drive along the Corniche roads of the Riviera and take in breathtaking views along Europe's most beautiful coast. Travel the Moyenne Corniche road, clinging to rocks between sea and sky, for spectacular views. Stop en route to appreciate sweeping panoramas of the sparkling Mediterranean and lavish villas. Join a Local Expert for a visit to the luxurious Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, one of the finest listed buildings on the French Riviera.
The Baroness Ephrussi de Rothschild collected art works from all over the world, transforming the Villa at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat into an art lover's paradise. Explore its nine wonderful gardens, complete with musical fountains, and enjoy stunning views over the Riviera. In the evening, raise a glass to new adventures and friendships at your Celebration Dinner with champagne, hosted at a local restaurant. (B/DW)
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
15 Days Nice Paris
Operated By: Luxury Gold
14 Days Zagreb Dubrovnik
Operated By: Luxury Gold
Luxury Gold Tours