Bordeaux + Chablis

A 10-day adventure in Bordeaux and Chablis sounds like a delightful journey through some of France's most renowned wine regions. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances wine tasting, cultural exploration, and some delicious local cuisine.

Day 1: Arrival in Bordeaux

• Morning: Arrive in Bordeaux. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the historic city center. Don’t miss the Place de la Bourse and the stunning water mirror, Le Miroir d'eau.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Try some classic dishes like duck confit or cannelés for dessert.

Day 2: Bordeaux Wine Tour

• Morning: Join a guided wine tour to the Médoc region. Visit famous châteaux like Château Margaux or Château Lafite Rothschild.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a wine tasting session and learn about the winemaking process.
• Evening: Return to Bordeaux and dine at a restaurant in the Chartrons district, known for its wine bars.

Day 3: Explore Bordeaux

• Morning: Visit the Cité du Vin, an interactive wine museum. It’s a must-see for wine lovers!
• Afternoon: Explore the Darwin Ecosystem, a unique space for creativity and sustainability, with shops and eateries.
• Evening: Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, perhaps at Le 7.

Day 4: Saint-Émilion Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short train ride or drive to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming village, visit the monolithic church, and enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards.
• Evening: Dine in Saint-Émilion, savoring local specialties paired with their exquisite wines.

Day 5: Arcachon Bay

• Morning: Head to Arcachon Bay, famous for its oysters. Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast.
• Afternoon: Visit the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Climb to the top for breathtaking views!
• Evening: Indulge in fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant before returning to Bordeaux.

Day 6: Travel to Chablis

• Morning: Depart Bordeaux and travel to Chablis (about a 6-hour drive or take a train to Auxerre and then a short drive).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and take a leisurely walk around the charming village of Chablis.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some Chablis wine with your meal.

Day 7: Chablis Wine Tasting

• Morning: Visit a few local wineries for tastings. Don’t miss Domaine William Fèvre and Domaine Laroche.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the vineyards or at a local park.
• Evening: Explore more of Chablis and have dinner at a cozy bistro, sampling local cheeses and charcuterie.

Day 8: Auxerre Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short trip to Auxerre, a beautiful town with medieval architecture.
• Afternoon: Visit the Abbey of Saint-Germain and stroll along the Yonne River.
• Evening: Return to Chablis for dinner, perhaps trying a local dish like coq au vin.

Day 9: Explore the Countryside

• Morning: Rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside around Chablis. The vineyards and rolling hills are stunning!
• Afternoon: Stop at small villages and enjoy the local charm. Have lunch at a countryside café.
• Evening: Return to Chablis for a farewell dinner, celebrating your trip with a nice bottle of Chablis wine.

Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through Chablis.
• Afternoon: Depart for your next destination or head back to Bordeaux for your flight home.

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is a great option for flexibility, especially for vineyard visits.
• Reservations: Make reservations for wine tastings and popular restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Local Markets: If you have time, check out local markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

This itinerary offers a blend of wine, culture, and stunning landscapes, ensuring you experience the best of Bordeaux and Chablis. Enjoy your trip! 🍷✨