We love —
- Setting off with your included car hire, enjoying the freedom to explore Bordeaux’s vineyards, charming villages, and scenic countryside at your own pace.
- Sampling elegant Bordeaux wines during a guided tasting, learning to appreciate the subtle characteristics of each vintage.
- Unwinding by the pool at Aux Ducs de Sienne 4*, soaking up the tranquillity of one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.
Customer reviews —
Welcome to France —
Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of south-west France with a stay at two exceptional 4* properties. Begin in Bordeaux at Hotel 56, 4*, a contemporary retreat in one of France's most vibrant cities, where grand architecture, lively waterfronts and renowned gastronomy await.
Then escape to the heart of the vineyards at Aux Ducs de Sienne 4*, nestled near Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO-listed village celebrated for its prestigious wines and enchanting medieval charm. Blending urban sophistication with countryside tranquillity, this duo stay offers the perfect way to discover the art de vivre of the Bordeaux region.
5-night suggested itinerary:
Day 1 — Arrival & Discovering Historic Bordeaux
Morning
- Arrive in Bordeaux and check into your accommodation (the Saint-Pierre or Chartrons districts are highly recommended).
- Enjoy breakfast in a local café before taking your first stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Afternoon
- Visit the iconic Place de la Bourse and admire its famous Water Mirror.
- Explore Saint-André Cathedral and climb the Pey-Berland Tower for panoramic views across the city.
- Wander along the Garonne riverfront towards the Chartrons district, renowned for its antique shops, galleries and relaxed atmosphere.
Evening
- Dine in the Saint-Pierre district, where elegant bistros showcase the finest regional cuisine alongside an excellent selection of Bordeaux wines.
Day 2 — Wine, Culture & Gastronomy
Morning
- Visit the renowned Cité du Vin (allow approximately 2 hours), an immersive museum dedicated to the history and culture of wine around the world. Your visit concludes with a tasting from the panoramic Belvedere.
Afternoon
- Explore the charming Chartrons district, home to historic wine merchants, antique dealers and the picturesque Rue Notre-Dame.
- If visiting at the weekend, browse the lively Chartrons Market, where local producers offer cheeses, charcuterie and regional specialities.
- Enjoy shopping along the elegant Allées de Tourny.
Evening
- Savour a final relaxed dinner in Bordeaux.
- Prepare for your journey to Saint-Émilion the following morning (approximately 40 minutes by car).
Day 3 — Arrival, Medieval Charm & Vignobles Bardet
Journey from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion: approximately 40 minutes by car.
Morning
- Check into your accommodation, ideally a charming hotel or guesthouse nestled among the vineyards.
- Explore the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, with its cobbled lanes, ancient ramparts and sweeping vineyard views.
Afternoon
- Enjoy your included excursion to Vignobles Bardet, discovering the estate's winemaking heritage and tasting its celebrated wines.
Day 4 — Vineyards, Panoramas & Departure
Morning
- Visit Saint-Émilion's extraordinary Monolithic Church and its fascinating catacombs, one of the world's most remarkable underground monuments.
- Climb to the bell tower for breathtaking 360-degree views across the surrounding vineyards.
Afternoon
- Follow one of the region's scenic wine routes, exploring nearby villages such as Pomerol, Fronsac or Castillon-la-Bataille.
- Alternatively, enjoy a second wine tasting at one of Saint-Émilion's prestigious estates, such as Château Angélus, Château Pavie or
- Château Ausone (advance booking recommended).
- Before departing, browse Saint-Émilion's wine cellars and boutiques to take home a few exceptional bottles from this world-famous appellation.
Hotel 56, 4* —
Just for you:
- 1 x welcome drink per person, per stay
- Complimentary late check-out until 2 pm
Hotel 56, 4* rests gracefully along the quays of Paludate, where the river’s gentle current mirrors the magnetic rhythm of Bordeaux itself. Curated artworks punctuate each space with bursts of colour and vitality, while rich textures and soft, ambient lighting create an atmosphere of understated sophistication.
Beyond the hotel, Bordeaux unfolds like a living canvas. The Méca pulses with modern creativity, while cobbled streets lead to the Place de la Bourse, where light shimmers across the river. Cafés hum with conversation and the scent of fresh pastries, and the Garonne gleams beneath evening skies.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in a Classic Room or a Superior Garonne View Room.
Classic Room (21 m²)
Discover a warm and contemporary space with high-quality amenities and a carefully designed layout for a truly enjoyable getaway. Adorned with wooden furniture and parquet flooring, the Classic Room offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Your stay will be all the more peaceful, thanks to the view of the inner courtyard.
Superior Garonne View Room (23 m²)
Relax and refresh in your charming Superior Room with views of the River Garonne. This spacious room features a blend of modern elegance, with plush bedding and stylish furnishings. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Garonne River from your private balcony, and savour cosy evenings watching the sunset. Make the most of the numerous in-room amenities for a truly comfortable stay.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 1 x voucher for the Rivamour Restaurant: spend 100 euros or more and get 20€ off (Available evenings only; excludes special events (e.g. Valentine's Day)
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Rivamour’s restaurant invites guests into a bright, elegant space where sunlight glances off crisp table linens and polished glassware. Aromas of freshly prepared seafood and roasted vegetables mingle, while each dish arrives as a visual composition, celebrating the richness of Bordeaux’s terroir. The terrace offers sweeping views of the Garonne and the MECA, where gentle city sounds accompany the delicate clink of cutlery and quiet conversation. The Bar at 56 Paludate continues the experience with artistry and warmth. Innovative cocktails draw on Basque villages and local flavours, while carefully selected wines release layered aromas.
Your time
Mornings begin with a stroll along the Paludate quays, where the Garonne catches the light, and barges glide gently by. Guests may wander through Rue de la Rousselle to Place de la Bourse, pausing at cafés along Quai Louis XVIII to savour pastries and espresso.
Afternoons invite cultural immersion at the MECA, where contemporary exhibitions pulse with energy, or along Rue des Remparts, where historic façades and boutique galleries reveal the city’s heritage. Evenings unfold on the riverbank, where the amber glow of Quai des Chartrons wine bars frames quiet conversation and the soft murmur of the Garonne, offering moments of calm, indulgence, and understated luxury.
Car hire: —
Take advantage of your Peugeot 208 or similar car hire to explore vineyards, charming villages, and scenic countryside at your own pace.
Aux Ducs de Sienne 4* —
Just for you:
- Complimentary late check-out until 1 pm
Welcome to the esteemed Aux Ducs de Sienne 4*, an exquisite boutique hotel nestled amidst the picturesque village of Montagne. Here, the authentic atmosphere appears in the charm of local stone, just a short distance from the enchanting Saint-Émilion. Explore the many treasures of this region, a haven for wine enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.
From the opulence of solid oak furnishings to delicate cane accents, juxtaposed with sleek black metal and captivating Bisazza mosaics, each design element has been thoughtfully curated to craft an ambience of unparalleled sophistication. Indulge in comfort within one of the 25 sumptuously appointed rooms, where luxury amenities, soft ambient lighting, and impeccable soundproofing create a truly relaxing atmosphere.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your room —
Choose between a Classic Room or a Superior Room.
Classic Room (21 m²)
Filled with natural light, the Classic Room offers peaceful views over the gardens and surrounding vineyards. Combining a calm atmosphere with thoughtful comforts and a contemporary shower room, it provides a relaxing setting for unwinding and enjoying the tranquillity of the estate.
Superior Room (23 m²)
For a bit more space, immerse yourself in the contemporary charm of this Tuscan-inspired Superior Room, offering a haven of tranquillity.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Enjoy a full continental buffet breakfast served in the Pollo O Manzo restaurant or on the terrace in fine weather, from 7.30am to 10.30am.
Later on, treat your taste buds to gastronomic cuisine at the hotel's La Réserve du Presbytère (Bib Gourmand 2023 Guide Michelin), a distinguished and refined restaurant using fresh local produce and a menu that changes according to the market. Meanwhile, at Pollo O Manzo sample delicious Italian flavours at lunch.
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x tour and wine tasting at the Bardet vineyards
As well as the pleasures of wine, with unmissable visits to Saint-Émilion and the prestigious wine châteaux, your stay promises a rich and varied experience. Relax in the spa, take a dip in the pool, keep fit in the fitness room, or explore the nearby greens for a round of golf.
Looking for adventure? Take a trip to Arcachon or Bordeaux, or explore the vineyards on a guided tour or by bike.
Your included extras —
Visit to the Bardet vineyard with tasting (for stays of 2 nights or more)
Treat yourself to a visit and tasting at Vignoble Bardet. Located in the Saint Emilion Grand Cru appellation, the wines of this vineyard will reveal all the richness of the terroir and all the winemaker's know-how. Vignoble Bardet is the creator of the official Peaky Blinders wine.
Your journey to France —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Bordeaux
Bordeaux, often hailed as the world's wine capital, is a city steeped in history and charm. Nestled along the banks of the Garonne River, this elegant French destination is famed for its UNESCO-listed historic centre, grand architecture, and sprawling vineyards. Beyond its world-class wines, Bordeaux offers a vibrant cultural scene, picturesque riverfronts, and culinary delights that make it a must-visit for travellers.
Must-sees:
- La Cité du Vin: An immersive wine museum dedicated to the history, culture, and art of winemaking, complete with tastings and panoramic views from its rooftop.
- Place de la Bourse: An iconic square featuring classical architecture and the stunning Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
- Basilica of St. Michael: A striking Gothic church with a towering bell tower offering breathtaking views of the city.
Culinary culture:
Bordeaux’s gastronomy is a perfect blend of refined French cuisine and regional specialties. The city is known for its canelés, small caramelised pastries with a soft custard centre. Local dishes like entrecôte à la Bordelaise, a rib steak cooked in a rich red wine sauce, and fresh oysters from nearby Arcachon Bay are culinary highlights. Wine bars and traditional bistros offer the perfect setting to savour the region’s celebrated reds, whites, and rosés.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the city, the Bordeaux region boasts world-famous vineyards producing nearly a billion bottles annually. A short train ride away, the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with its historic streets and prestigious wineries. For a scenic escape, a cruise along the Garonne River offers a different perspective of the city’s beauty, passing grand châteaux and verdant landscapes.
Good to know:
The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bordeaux enjoys a mild climate, making it a great year-round destination, though spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather. The city is easily navigable on foot, by bike, or using its efficient tram system. Wine tours and tastings are best booked in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Saint Émilion
Surrounded by rolling vineyards and golden limestone landscapes, Saint-Émilion is one of France’s most enchanting wine villages. Set in the heart of Bordeaux’s Right Bank, this medieval hilltop town combines centuries of winemaking heritage with a serene, timeless atmosphere. Cobbled lanes, ancient monolithic monuments and sunlit terraces create an irresistible sense of place, while the surrounding estates - home to some of the world’s most prestigious wines - showcase the artistry and tradition that define the region.
Must-sees:
- Saint-Émilion Monolithic Church: A vast 12th-century church carved entirely from limestone beneath the village.
- The Bell Tower: Offering sweeping views over the vineyards and tiled rooftops.
- Cloître des Cordeliers: A peaceful cloister surrounded by gardens, known for its sparkling Crémant.
- Château Ausone & Château Angélus: Two legendary Premier Grand Cru Classé estates representing the pinnacle of Saint-Émilion winemaking.
- Underground Cellars & Catacombs: A fascinating network of caves revealing centuries of local history.
Culinary culture:
The gastronomy of Saint-Émilion reflects the richness of Bordeaux’s terroir. Pair the village’s renowned Merlots and Cabernet Francs with regional dishes such as duck confit, entrecôte bordelaise or seasonal mushroom fricassées. Local dining ranges from traditional bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, each highlighting river fish, farm-fresh vegetables and artisan cheeses. For something sweet, don’t miss the famous Saint-Émilion macarons, handmade here using an ancestral recipe.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its iconic wine estates, Saint-Émilion offers quiet pleasures and immersive experiences. Stroll through its medieval streets at sunrise, when golden light bathes the limestone façades, or explore scenic routes through the Jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO-listed landscape shaped by vines and centuries-old châteaux. Join blending workshops, cycle between vineyards, or visit small family-run estates where winemakers share stories passed down through generations. In summer, open-air concerts, local markets and wine festivals reveal the village’s vibrant cultural soul.
Good to know:
Saint-Émilion is located about 45 minutes from Bordeaux Airport or 35 minutes from Bordeaux city centre by car or train. The best time to visit is from May to October, when warm weather enhances vineyard walks and outdoor tastings.