Bordeaux

Day 9: Depart Mercués | Saint-Émilion | Bordeaux
En route to Bordeaux stop in Saint-Émilion—a picturesque medieval village renowned for its vineyards and vintages—for a gourmet lunch at a prestigious Grand Cru Classé winery featuring exquisite local delicacies paired with the finest varietals.

Afterward descend into Saint-Émilion's fascinating network of underground passages, tunnels and chambers that played a crucial role in the region's winemaking history for centuries. Formed over time through the process of erosion, the natural caverns were expanded and modified by human hands as generations of vintners sought to harness their unique properties for wine storage and aging.

Later arrive to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel (L)

Day 10: Bordeaux
After breakfast meet with a local guide for a panoramic walking tour of Bordeaux—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notable sights include Place de la Bourse, an iconic square dominated by the stunning Palais de la Bourse and its mesmerizing Water Mirror—the world's largest reflecting pool; the Gothic cathedral of Saint-André adorned with intricate carvings and stunning stained glass windows; and Bordeaux's ornate city gate—Porte Cailhau.

Next venture northwest of Bordeaux to the Médoc region for a guided panoramic tour. This unique area, which is home to four of the world's most prestigious wine villages, features a dynamic landscape of coastal lagoons, sand dunes and pine forests. Its prolific wine estates, or châteaux, produce some of the world's most expensive wines. Delight in a picnic lunch and wine pairing.

Before returning to the hotel visit Château Kirwan for a wine tasting featuring a variety of local chocolates.

This evening take advantage of the plentiful amenities and dining options at the hotel.
Overnight: InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel (B,L)

Day 12: Bordeaux | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary group transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, and can walk up and down hillsides and stairs without assistance. Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Deluxe Accommodations Package (availability limited)
While the accommodations are exceptional, guests wishing the ultimate indulgence may choose to purchase the Deluxe Accommodations Package, which includes the following upgrade:

• InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel: Upgrade to Premium Room—a larger room with views of the Opera.

• 2 nights at InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel (or similar)
• 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches
• Guided panoramic touring of Bordeaux and Médoc
• Guided Saint-Émilion caves tour
• Wine and chocolate tasting
• Luggage porterage
• Gratuities to local guide, driver and porters
• Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times