Day 1 – Saturday, August 30
Our tour begins today in Bordeaux City at the elegant Grand Hotel Français, located in the heart of the city's Golden Triangle. Check-in and settle in before meeting the group at 6pm in the hotel bar for a welcome drink. From there, we’ll head to Le Bouchon Bordelais, a local gem known for its warm hospitality and excellent food. By the time you leave, you’ll feel like part of the family, thanks to our wonderful host, Fanny.
Dinner provided
Day 2 – Sunday, August 31
After breakfast, we’ll set off for the UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Émilion, a region renowned for its vineyards, ancient underground cellars, and cobbled streets.
Our day includes a guided tour of the historic underground caves, originally excavated by the Romans for construction and later repurposed for wine storage, chapels, and catacombs. Saint-Émilion became a pilgrimage site in the 8th century and has been a centre for winemaking ever since.
We’ll enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at La Terrasse Rouge, a winery restaurant near Saint-Émilion, before returning to our hotel. Later, join us for evening drinks at the hotel bar, followed by a free evening to explore the local dining scene.
Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 3 – Monday, September 1
After breakfast and a mid-morning checkout, we head to the Médoc, where we’ll stay at Château Ormes de Pez, a beautiful estate set among the vines of Saint-Estèphe.
On the way, we’ll stop for a wine tasting and lunch at Château Beychevelle, known for its exceptional wines and elegant setting. Upon arrival at our accommodation, take some time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Dinner is not provided this evening, but we can pick up provisions for a relaxed meal at the château, or I can arrange transport to a nearby restaurant.
Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 4 – Tuesday, September 2
After breakfast, we’ll explore the wild coastline of the Arcachon Basin, heading to Lège-Cap-Ferret for lunch at the iconic Chez Hortense. Beforehand, there’s an option to visit the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, which acts as a natural barrier protecting the peninsula from Atlantic storms.
On our return, we’ll stop at the oyster leases in Andernos, where you may wish to pick up some oysters or fresh seafood for dinner. Alternatively, you can dine at a nearby restaurant.
Bring your swimmers if you fancy a dip in the Atlantic.
Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 5 – Wednesday, September 3
Today we have a special wine tasting at Château Lynch-Bages, where we’ll sample their renowned wines.
Lunch follows at Le Lion d’Or, a legendary meeting spot for local winemakers for generations. Afterward, we’ll visit another winery before returning to our château for a relaxed evening.
Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 6 – Thursday, September 4
We depart early for the Dordogne and our stunning accommodation in Monpazier.
En route, we’ll visit Le Jardin de Sardy, where the owner will share the story behind this breathtaking estate. Enjoy a light snack as we take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Upon arrival at Château Edward 1er, we’ll dine together at the château’s Michelin-listed restaurant.
Breakfast and dinner provided
Day 7 – Friday, September 5
After breakfast, enjoy some time to explore the charming village at your own pace—wander the quaint streets, visit local artisan shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere. By late morning, we’ll set off to discover the magnificent gardens of the Dordogne, where carefully designed landscapes and centuries-old charm make for a truly special experience.
In the afternoon, we’ll pop into a local winery to sample the region’s wines, gaining insight into the unique terroir of the Dordogne. As the day winds down, we’ll return to the château for a delicious dinner, reflecting on the beauty and flavours of the day.
Breakfast and dinner provided
Day 8 – Saturday, September 6
This morning, we’ll take a short drive to Sarlat, home to one of the most famous markets in France. Bustling with local producers, fragrant spices, fresh cheeses, and regional delicacies, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Périgord Noir.
With its winding cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and rich history inviting you to explore at your own pace. Take time to browse the market stalls, discover hidden courtyards, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere before we return to the château.
Breakfast and dinner provided.
Day 9 – Sunday, September 7
After an early breakfast, we’ll check out and begin our journey north to the Loire Valley, a region rich in history, grand châteaux, and world-class wines.
Along the way, we’ll stop in Limoges to explore its famous covered market, where you can browse local specialties, sample regional delicacies, and grab a bite to eat from one of the bustling food stalls.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at our accommodation—Château du Riveau, a true fairy-tale setting surrounded by stunning gardens. As a guest, you’ll have the unique opportunity to access the château’s private gardens after hours, allowing you to experience their beauty in peaceful solitude.
After a long day of travel, dinner at the château offers the perfect way to unwind and soak in the tranquil, storybook surroundings
Breakfast and dinner provided
Day 10 – Monday, September 8
We begin the day with a visit to the spectacular gardens of Château de Villandry, followed by a stop at Pierre and Bertrand Couly’s winery in Chinon. This family-run vineyard has a strong connection to Cupitt’s Estate, with Vincent previously taking part in a vintage here.
In the afternoon, we visit another stunning château garden before returning to the Château. Enjoy dinner at your leisure (transport is provided).
Breakfast provided
Day 11 – Tuesday, September 9
Our journey continues toward Sancerre, with a stop in Chemery to visit winemaker Philippe, a friend I worked with during the 2003 vintage.
Philippe’s tasting room is an incredible underground cave, originally carved out when stone was mined to build Château de Blois. We’ll enjoy a light snack and wine tasting, before heading to Alphonse Mellot’s cellar in Sancerre to sample his wines, now crafted by the 19th-generation winemaker.
Dinner is at your leisure in the village of Sancerre or at our hotel.
Breakfast and morning tea provided
Day 12 – Wednesday, September 10
Today begins with a cheese tasting at Fromagerie Dubois-Boulay in Chavignol, followed by a wine tasting at Clos Henri Bourgeois.
Lunch is at one of my favourite restaurants in France, Le Bon Laboureur—a simple auberge serving exceptional, honest food with a fantastic wine list.
The afternoon is yours to soak up the views from Sancerre or explore the charming village.
Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 13, Thursday, September 11th
Our final stop is Le Doyenné in Saint-Vrain, where we’ll stay in a beautifully restored barn-style accommodation and enjoy a memorable meal by Australian chefs James Henry and Shaun Kelly. Their incredible farm-to-table menu is inspired by the produce grown on-site—a walk through their gardens is a must.
The following morning, after a sumptuous breakfast, I will take you to Bouey train station for a short ride to Paris.
Breakfast and dinner provided
Day 14, Friday, September 12th
Au revoir - Enjoy Paris!Â
Breakfast provided.
2025 Costs & Booking Details
$6,400 per person, twin share(Sorry, single supplement unavailable)
A good level of mobility is required due to stairs, cobblestone streets, and uneven garden paths.
Inclusions:
- 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches/dinners, 1 morning snack
- Wine and cheese tastings
- All accommodation and entry fees
- Transport from Bordeaux (August 31) to Bouey (September 11)
Exclusions:
- International airfares, insurance, visas (if required)
- Transfers outside the itinerary
- Personal expenses and some meals
For enquiries, contact:
Cupitt’s Estate
58 Washburton Rd, Ulladulla, NSW 2539
info@cupitt.com.au | (02) 4455 7888
www.cupittsestate.com.au
Recommended Travel Agency
for Trip Bookings and Airline Tickets:
David Vuong Travel – ATAS Accreditation No: A10652,
AFTA Member No.: 02712
PO BOX 5296 MARRICKVILLE NSW 1475
Suite 4, Level 1, 333 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
Ph: 02 95162990 / FAX:02 95163990
email: dvtravel@bigpond.net.au /web:www.davidvuongtravel.com
Terms & Conditions:
- Deposit & Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $500.00 per person is required on confirmation in order to secure your reservation. Final payment is due 90 days before your departure date.
- Special Requirements: Please advise Rosie Cupitt or David Vuong Travel of any special requirements such as Special Meals, or allergies.
- Accommodation: Our accommodation is thoughtfully selected for the facilities and logistics for the tour. We have tried to choose the best available in a variety of accommodation standards with no accommodation below 3 stars.
- Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy of your choice at the time of booking.
- Insurance covers cancellation fees payable for airline tickets, accommodation, loss of deposit, luggage etc. and unforeseen circumstances. Normal travel insurance conditions apply. (Insurance may not cover trip cancellation due to pre-existing medical conditions.) Please read your policy carefully.
- Cancellation: If cancelling prior to final payment the deposit is non-refundable. After final payment is received a cancellation fee of approximately 75% applies and arrangements for full or partial refund of monies paid may be entered into if the position on the tour can be filled in full by another guest. A cancellation fee of 100% is applicable within 14 days of travel. If cancellation is not due to pre-existing illnesses, travel insurance will cover most or all of the cancellation fee. Please read your policy carefully.
- Pricing: All prices are shown in Australian dollars and are current as the date of printing this itinerary. If there is dramatic fluctuation in the exchange rate or the price of services provided which are beyond the control of Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt, Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt reserves the right to adjust tour prices accordingly, even though the balance of payment may have been made. This would only happen in very unusual circumstances.
- Exclusions: Visas, insurance, excess baggage, extra meals, laundry, drinks, items of a personal nature, some gratuities and international departure taxes.
- Itinerary Validity and Content: This itinerary is valid for the period of 2025 unless otherwise specified. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt shall not be liable for any injury, damage or loss caused by any inaccuracy. Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt reserves the right to change tour arrangements or accommodations due to safety or security reasons, or circumstances arising with the accommodation provider and will endeavour to provide alternative arrangements of the same standard as that originally booked.
- Disclaimer: Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt are not carriers or hoteliers in relation to this tour, nor do we own hotels or coaches. The services Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt supply consists of arranging and co-ordinating accommodation, tours and transfers, making bookings and issuing vouchers to be redeemed by suppliers if necessary. We exercise every care in the selection of reputable vehicles, hotels and other suppliers of the various travel services which are used in these tours. It is important to note, therefore, all bookings with Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt are subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of liability imposed by the service providers whose services we utilise, some of which limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage of baggage. Because of this Cupitt’s Estate and Rosie Cupitt does not accept liability for events beyond our control nor liability for accidents incurred due to actions taken at your own risk.
- Clients’ Responsibilities: It is your responsibility to book your own airline tickets to meet the tour at the pre-arranged time and place. It is also your responsibility to obtain visas, passports, health certificates or other travel documents where required for the tour. It remains your responsibility to ensure that these documents are in order and to meet any additional costs incurred as a result of failure to comply with such requirements.
