Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive in Paris
Bienvenue a Paris! The City of Light and love, and the perfect location to kick off our small-group adventure through France's finest. After meeting our fellow travellers at our hotel, we'll get to know one another over a sumptuous welcome dinner at a local restaurant. With traditional French cuisine on the menu that's sure to delight, make sure you leave enough room for dessert. Bon appetit!
Hotel: Hotel Alexandrine Opera (3 Star Rating)
Located in a typically Parisian Street in the 8th arrondissement, the Hotel Alexandrine welcomes you to its haven of peace in the heart of Paris. We like to think that our residence is also yours. We invite you to make yourself at home throughout the hotel, from the lobby to your room, so you can enjoy a memorable and relaxing stay with us. Combining charm and modernity, our establishment and its elegant Haussmann-era façade will immerse you in the poetic and historical spirit of the City of Light as soon as you arrive. Our elegant and comfortable rooms with their warm and welcoming tones are an intimate retreat where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest after a day of exploring the streets and visiting the attractions of the capital. Recently renovated and boasting ultra-comfortable beds, they are a promise of peace and wellbeing, whether you are with us for one night or several. The Hotel Alexandrine is located on the Rue de Moscou in the heart of Paris and the Saint-Lazare district. An ideal address from which to discover the city, its monuments, its museums, and live like a true Parisian! Not far from our hotel you can find the famous Moulin Rouge and its spectacular and whimsical shows, as well as Montmartre, a district with the feel of a small village in the heart of the capital.
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Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2: Paris to HonfleurWake up to the scent of warm coffee and buttery croissants as you get ready for your first full day of our adventure together. As you journey out of Paris, settle into the Mini coach and look out for the glistening Champs-Elysees lined with luxury storefronts, as well as the majestic Arc de Triomphe that stands stoic in the center of swirling Parisian traffic.
Your first stop will be Giverny and the ivy-clad home of Claude Monet, one of the world's most celebrated Impressionist painters. Be transported back in time as you admire your surrounds - where walls are adorned with lemon yellow and eggshell blue paints, gardens erupt in a kaleidoscope of colours and a gentle breeze whisper through the branches of a willow. It's easy to see how Monet spent over four decades here.
With its colourful, half-timbered medieval houses and narrow cobblestone streets, our home for the next two nights will be the charming port town of Honfleur. You may recognize it as the subject of a fair few Impressionist paintings (looking at you, Eugene Boudin!). You'll spend the evening enjoying a dinner together before settling down for the night.
Hotel: Le Rituel Honfleur (4 Star Rating)
Immerse yourself in the heart of excellence in our Maison. Each room embodies a sanctuary of opulence: the subtle marriage of sophisticated design and state-of-the-art amenities transports you to a world of unparalleled comfort and refinement.
Experience a unique sensory journey within the Ritual: each moment reveals a feast for the senses, harmoniously blending gustatory delights, absolute comfort and an atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the beautiful residence and explore the modern uniqueness and absolute comfort of the hotel's 21 rooms. Each one welcomes you in a bright and carefully equipped setting, where every detail has been meticulously considered to offer an unforgettable stay.
Discover creative cuisine showcasing local, seasonal produce for a truly memorable culinary experience. The restaurant, Albertine, invites you on a gastronomic journey you won't soon forget, where refined flavors blend harmoniously with an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.
Discover the spa, a true haven of serenity where you can recharge and rediscover your inner balance. Let yourself be carried away by our exceptional treatments and relaxing rituals, specially designed to soothe body and mind in an attractive and restful setting.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Honfleur to Normandy and return to HonfleurFrom the buzz of its bustling market to the sailboat-lined 17th-century harbour, this morning, our Tour Leader will help us discover the heart of Honfleur on an orientation tour. After walking up an appetite, we'll have free time for lunch. Why not opt for some fresh seafood for a taste of quintessential local flavours? We hear the sole meunière is a particular favorite: expect expertly fried sole served with a butter, lemon and parsley sauce - talk about catch of the day!
Next, we will trace the Route du Cidre in Normandy in our Mini coach, pausing at a local calvados producer to sample the fruits of the region's orchards. From cool, crisp ciders to heady, amber hued calvados, a treat for the tastebuds awaits. After filling our bags with unique artisanal produce (for a taste of Normandy back home, of course), we will return to Honfleur. En route, spy the picture-perfect thatched roof cottages that make this region so unique.
Back in Honfleur, we will have the evening to spend as we wish. Whether it's relaxing by the pool of our thoughtfully selected hotel, walking up to the Panorama du Mont-Joli for sweeping views over the quaint town, or seeking out a local haunt for dinner - your knowledgeable Tour Leader is sure to have plenty of recommendations ready to share.
Hotel: Le Rituel Honfleur (4 Star Rating)
Immerse yourself in the heart of excellence in our Maison. Each room embodies a sanctuary of opulence: the subtle marriage of sophisticated design and state-of-the-art amenities transports you to a world of unparalleled comfort and refinement.
Experience a unique sensory journey within the Ritual: each moment reveals a feast for the senses, harmoniously blending gustatory delights, absolute comfort and an atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the beautiful residence and explore the modern uniqueness and absolute comfort of the hotel's 21 rooms. Each one welcomes you in a bright and carefully equipped setting, where every detail has been meticulously considered to offer an unforgettable stay.
Discover creative cuisine showcasing local, seasonal produce for a truly memorable culinary experience. The restaurant, Albertine, invites you on a gastronomic journey you won't soon forget, where refined flavors blend harmoniously with an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.
Discover the spa, a true haven of serenity where you can recharge and rediscover your inner balance. Let yourself be carried away by our exceptional treatments and relaxing rituals, specially designed to soothe body and mind in an attractive and restful setting.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4: Honfleur to Normandy Beaches and Bayeux and Arromanches-les-BainsToday you'll turn our attention to the windswept shoreline of the Normandy beaches, where you'll explore the sites of the 1944 D-Day landings. There's also the opportunity to pay a poignant visit to the American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, where we can take the time to reflect whilst overlooking the expansive Omaha Beach.
Next, in keeping with this morning's theme, you'll make a stop at the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy in Bayeux where you'll delve deeper into the details of the D-Day landings. Hear spine-tingling stories from those who lived through the event and get up close to fascinating artefacts used by the soldiers during the battle. To round off your day, you'll move on to Arromanches-les-Bains - your home for the night.
Hotel: Villas d'Arromanches (4 Star Rating)
Between Deauville and Bayeux, one and a half hour from the mythical Mont Saint-Michel, borded by the D-Day landing beaches, the charm hotel Les Villas d'Arromanches is a peaceful place to rest at the heart of a History - filled Normandy. 3 minutes from Arromanches'center, you will love the calm of the seaside and the quiet of this dwelling with character from the nineteenth century, made of stone and timber, and its verdant and lush park.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5: Arromanches-les-Bains to Mont Saint-Michel, Dol-de-Bretagne and DinanTales of a mysterious apparition, the Hundred Years' War and powerful tides await - we're off to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint-Michel where we'll cross the iconic walkway to wander the buzzing island village. Weave your way up to the magnificent Abbey along La Grande Rue, where timber-clad medieval buildings hug the path and the scent of sizzling crepes fills the air. The viewpoint from the North Tower is also well worth a visit - feel the wind whip past as the bay stretches out before you, shimmering like reams of satin.
Then, as we make our way to storybook Dinan, we'll stop off for a photo opportunity at Dol-deBretagne where we'll see the famous Menhir de Champ-Dolent, a Neolithic megalith. Your Tour Leader is sure to have some intriguing legends about this historical monument up their sleeve!
Did we mention crepes? Thought so! Tonight, we'll feast on an included dinner at a traditional Breton creperie. This local delicacy is crafted using buckwheat flour, giving the batter a distinctive, delicious flavour. With savoury and sweet options on the menu, you'll be spoilt for choice. Why not try a classic crepe complete filled with Emmental cheese, ham and an egg? Sign us up!
Hotel: Cit'Hotel Hotel Marguerite (3 Star Rating)
Step into one of Dinan's oldest hotels, dating back to the mid-1820s, for a comfortable stay in the heart of Dinan. Discover the charms of the Cotes d'Armor, while being only 30 minutes from Saint-Malo or Cap Frehel and 45 minutes from Mont-Saint-Michel, Rennes or Saint-Brieuc. Opposite Place Duguesclin, close to the train station, the castle and the ramparts, the Hotel Le Challonge offers you direct access to the medieval city of Dinan.
For optimal rest, the spacious rooms all have perfect soundproofing and elegant yet comfortable decor (high-quality bedding, blackout shutters). Larger groups (groups or families) can choose one of the family rooms, suites or one of the two fully equipped apartments.
Come and enjoy a high-end professional stay with rooms featuring a workspace. As part of the Overnight Stay packages, guests can choose to dine at Longueville, a restaurant located on the ground floor of the establishment, or at the hotel thanks to the catering partner "Saveurs et Gourmandises". Presented in jars, guests can enjoy a hot cooked dish (350g) accompanied by a dessert.
Start the day off right with the generous continental breakfast, served in-room or as a buffet in the recently renovated dining room.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Explore DinanWith a whole day to yourself in Dinan, you can really get under the skin of this Gallic gem. Picture ancient ramparts, an assortment of timbered houses, a postcard-pretty quay and a 14th-century castle, and you'll have a pretty good idea of what awaits.
Immerse yourself in Dinan's arts and crafts heritage in the quirky shops and galleries that line the cobblestone streets and swap inspiration with talented artisans (ranging from bookbinders to glassblowers) that ply their trade here. Or, take a moment to pause in the beams of light from the stained-glass windows of the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, savouring the sound of hushed whispers around you.
You certainly won't be short of things to do in this charming, medieval town.
Hotel: Cit'Hotel Hotel Marguerite (3 Star Rating)
Step into one of Dinan's oldest hotels, dating back to the mid-1820s, for a comfortable stay in the heart of Dinan. Discover the charms of the Cotes d'Armor, while being only 30 minutes from Saint-Malo or Cap Frehel and 45 minutes from Mont-Saint-Michel, Rennes or Saint-Brieuc. Opposite Place Duguesclin, close to the train station, the castle and the ramparts, the Hotel Le Challonge offers you direct access to the medieval city of Dinan.
For optimal rest, the spacious rooms all have perfect soundproofing and elegant yet comfortable decor (high-quality bedding, blackout shutters). Larger groups (groups or families) can choose one of the family rooms, suites or one of the two fully equipped apartments.
Come and enjoy a high-end professional stay with rooms featuring a workspace. As part of the Overnight Stay packages, guests can choose to dine at Longueville, a restaurant located on the ground floor of the establishment, or at the hotel thanks to the catering partner "Saveurs et Gourmandises". Presented in jars, guests can enjoy a hot cooked dish (350g) accompanied by a dessert.
Start the day off right with the generous continental breakfast, served in-room or as a buffet in the recently renovated dining room.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7: Dinan to Angers and ChinonPlunge deep into fairytale territory today as we board the Mini coach towards the Loire Valley. Here, the skyline is peppered with the turrets of ancient castles, vineyards etch their way across green, rolling hills and orchards overflow with an abundance of sun-kissed fruit.
Your first port of call will be Angers, where you'll pay a visit to the city's castle - an imposing structure that dates to the 9th century. Why not meander through the castle's impressive towers and inhale the fresh fragrance of its garden's herbs? As you explore this formidable site, don't miss the Apocalypse Tapestry - a vast work depicting the story of the apocalypse from the Book of Revelation. Commissioned by Louis I, it is said to be one of the oldest known medieval tapestries and is yours to discover today.
To round off the day, you'll journey on to Chinon - where you'll share a meal together at a local restaurant for dinner. A demain!
Hotel: Best Western Hotel De France Chinon (3 Star Rating)
We are in the heart of the medieval Vieux Chinon with an easy and direct access to the chateau by foot or car. The Best Western Hotel de France is an ideal place to discover the sweet lifestyle of the garden of France. The Best Western Hotel de France offers you a beautifully renovated, 16th century building complete with stylish, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the chateau and a charming square with a fountain. Inside the hotel, we welcome you with authentic charm, comfort and respect for tradition. It is said that the most beautiful French is spoken here. Certainly the language is softer; the food is more flavorsome and the wine very drinkable. We provide luggage assistance (no elevator).
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Chinon to Chateau de Villandry and ChinonRise and shine! Today, we are visiting the mesmerizing Chateau de Villandry. One of the last chateaux built during the Renaissance, it's famous for its impeccably manicured gardens and architectural elegance.
Spy the intricate frescoes and wooden panelling of its majestic interiors. Peek out of an upstairs window for a birds-eye view of the parterre planting. Meander through the myriad gardens, where rich colours and textures will ignite your imagination.
Taking in so much beauty is thirsty work, so on our way back to Chinon we'll enjoy a detour at a local winery, whose 12th-century cellars are nestled beneath Chinon's medieval fortress. Did you know, the Loire is famous for its white wines, crafted by the likes of luscious Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc grapes? Linger over a delicious glass (or two!) of the region's finest and let their fresh flavors and fruity aromas enchant as you raise a toast with the group to another wonderful day. Sante!
Hotel: Best Western Hotel De France Chinon (3 Star Rating)
We are in the heart of the medieval Vieux Chinon with an easy and direct access to the chateau by foot or car. The Best Western Hotel de France is an ideal place to discover the sweet lifestyle of the garden of France. The Best Western Hotel de France offers you a beautifully renovated, 16th century building complete with stylish, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the chateau and a charming square with a fountain. Inside the hotel, we welcome you with authentic charm, comfort and respect for tradition. It is said that the most beautiful French is spoken here. Certainly the language is softer; the food is more flavorsome and the wine very drinkable. We provide luggage assistance (no elevator).
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9: Chinon to Chateau de Chenonceau, Amboise and Montlouis-sur-LoireFuel up on golden croissants and fresh orange juice, we've got another day of exploring on the cards. One of the Loire Valley's precious jewels awaits: Chateau de Chenonceau. Built in the early 1500s, this spectacular chateau was later expanded to include a five-arched bridge that spans across the River Cher. On a still, clear day, don't miss the chance to see the water reflect the iconic château like a mirror.
Cast yourself back to medieval times, cooking in the wooden-beamed, limestone-walled kitchens, or imagine yourself at a royal reception in the Grand Gallery where a chessboard-patterned floor stretches before you. As we round off our visit, we will take some time to stroll through the idyllic gardens - where tulips dance in the breeze, manicured hedges stand steadfast and elegant water features babble.
On our way back to Paris, we will make a brief stop in Amboise, the town where Leonardo da Vinci lived out the last years of his life. Then, it's off to our very own chateau for the night where we turn into lords and ladies of the manor! Our final French feast as a group awaits for dinner and it's the perfect chance to reminisce on the soul-stirring experiences we've shared together.
Hotel: Chateau de la Bourdaisiere (3 Star Rating)
The Chateau de la Bourdaisiere is a magnificent castle of the XVth century. Francois 1st built it for his mistress. It became then the favourite place of residence for famed Mlle. Gabrielle d' Estrees, favourite of Henri IV. Today, a tourism site for relaxation but also discovery, the Chateau de la Bourdaisiere offers outdoor activities, rooms, and reception rooms, but also place for exhibitions and luxurious gardens which shelters an extraordinary kitchen garden of 1 hectare. Bourdaisiere provides you with 11 rooms and 3 apartments in the Castle and 6 rooms in the Pavilion Choiseul. Rooms are spacious, quite differently decorated in the same spirit of taste and refinement of these women who made the history. The lounge is decorated with a herbarium.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Paris to Depart from Montlouis-sur-Loire - ChartresListen to the gentle ripple of the Eure River, the hum of the local market and the chime of ancient bells as we pay a visit to the medieval city of Chartres. We will call upon the city's celebrated cathedral - said to be one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, no less! Its soaring spires and ornate 13th-century stained-glass windows are a sight to behold. As we part ways back in Paris, we may be saying au revoir to France but the memories of its charm and beauty are sure to last a lifetime.
Meal(s): Breakfast
North & King Signature Travel
