Is there any finer destination for foodies than Bordeaux? With world-class wineries wherever you turn and delicious dishes to go with them, this gorgeous region of France is as good as it gets. On this seven-night all-inclusive river cruise, winding its way through the picturesque Médoc, you'll be joined by two special guests perfectly placed to show you the best of the local area.
You will taste clarets at some of the region's most famous châteaux - including special tastings with wine expert and cricket legend Ian Botham - and enjoy a cooking demonstration, exclusive talk and Q&A with Matt Tebbutt, plus a gourmet dinner he's designed himself.
Setting off from Bordeaux, you'll discover the UNESCO-listed citadel in Blaye, as well as Cadillac and Saint-Émilion, Libourne and Pauillac, before returning to Bordeaux. Plus, you'll be travelling in style on board Uniworld's elegant Super-Ship Bon Voyage, with pretty French balconies, chic furnishings, first-class suites, delicious food and fabulous facilities.
Ian Botham is one of cricket's best-loved figures as a player and commentator, as well as a prolific charity fundraiser. He was knighted in 2007. Ian has developed his own range of wines, Botham Wines.
Saturday Kitchen presenter Matt Tebbutt trained at Leiths School of Food and Wine before working as a trainee for the fiery Marco Pierre White, then learning from a master of classic French food Bruce Poole at Chez Bruce. Matt has also written two cookbooks and presented Food Unwrapped, Family Food Fight, Save Money: Good Food and Market Kitchen.
Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
The Route de la Corniche Fleurie…could this be the most
beautiful road you've ever traveled? Find out today on the drive to
Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet
after another. Once you arrive, you'll find your center with a
unique and expertly led yoga session in the heart of this historic
fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux
from attacks by sea.
This afternoon, you'll will be joined by Matt Tebbutt for an
introduction. Matt will share anecdotes from Saturday Morning
Kitchen, his experiences and his career. In the evening, a
special gala dinner will be curated and prepared for you by Matt
Tebbutt himself.
The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Take a scenic drive through the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate. Enjoy the waters of the Garonne River and the Gironde Estuary before heading to the pretty town of Pauillac, gateway to the storied Médoc wine route, the Atlantic coast and remnants of the Atlantic Wall erected during WWII. Matt Tebbutt will join you today as you sample some Fresh Médoc oysters at an exclusive tasting.
The French phrase "la douceur de vivre" is an accurate description for your time in Cadillac, known for its deliciously flavored dessert wines. Visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, site of Henry IV's and Queen Margot's tempestuous love. Meet the owner around a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall. This evening you will be joined by Ian Botham for an exclusive wine tasting. Ian will be show casing Botham wines, alongside some French classics.
With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region's history and wine culture. Ian Botham will join you as you visit the medieval town of Saint-Émilion, an ideal place to linger. Wander its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends beneath the city's streets. Another treasure awaiting you underground? A wine tasting in the cellars of a Grand Cru estate.
France's rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region's exquisite cuisine-and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne's lively farmers' market? This evening, Ian Botham will share some of his cricket career highlights and be on hand to answer your questions.
Discover Bordeaux's many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels-the locals' preferred way to navigate the city's charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, a special Captain's Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport for your flight home.
Sailing with Uniworld is like cruising in a five-star hotel – you’ll enjoy industry- leading service throughout your journey through the beautiful countryside.
The new SS Bon Voyage is one of the world's finest river ships uniquely designed to immerse guests in French culture, art and wine, from its stunning polished wood lobby to the marble-bathroomed staterooms and Savoir Beds. On board, you will find a choice of restaurants offering freshly-prepared five-star cuisine with all meals and unlimited drinks including fines wines and spirits, a sun deck with stunning infinity pool, well-equipped fitness centre and the luxury Serenity River Spa. In your Classic Stateroom you will find hand-crafted Savoir Beds.
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