Capital of the Aquitaine region, Bordeaux is celebrated for its thoughtfully preserved 18th-century architecture. Together, its glorious buildings, many of them built on the wine trade, comprise the world's largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, honored as a City of Art and History, Bordeaux is a "Little Paris” of beautiful boulevards, Gothic and baroque churches, and lovely parks and gardens. The towering spire of the flamboyant Basilica of St. Michael is visible from all over the city, while the city's green spaces are a delight to explore on foot.

Stately mansions, restored houses and grand squares form the heart of Bordeaux's old town. Among its treasures, the neoclassical Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is the pride of the city. Another cultural gem, and a national monument of France, is the spectacular Cathedral of St. Andrew. In 1137, Eleanor of Aquitaine wed the future Louis VII in the cathedral when she was 13 years old. The elegant, 17-arched Stone Bridge is favored among the Bordelais for whiling away an afternoon and capturing views over the river, docks and the harbor.

Libourne is a gastronomic haven, an inviting destination full of the authentic flavors of southwestern France. Situated in the picturesque heart of Bordeaux wine country, its surrounding vineyards have a long-standing tradition of crafting exceptional wines from Merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc grapes, showcasing the region's unique terroir. Libourne's culinary scene shines, with an abundance of food markets and charming bistros offering fresh produce and regional delicacies, such as entrecôte à la Bordelaise, perfectly paired with renowned local wines.

The village of Bourg reclines along the Gironde, just beyond the confluence of the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Perched on a rocky slope and encircled by medieval walls, it has always had a clear view of ships, friend or foe, heading toward Bordeaux. The citadel in the Upper Town has long kept watch. Pleasant strolls unfold at every corner, from the picturesque alleyways that tumble down to the harbor to the ancient King’s Staircase that provided the royals with quick access to the water. With a rich architectural heritage, it is one of France’s official historic villages.

Cussac-Fort-Médoc is a gateway to the Médoc wine country, home to the famed wine growing villages of Pauillac, Margaux, Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien. Collectively, they produce some of the world’s most prestigious wines with four of the five Premier cru classé hailing from the Médoc region; Château Margaux, Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour and Château Mouton Rothschild. In addition, there are 60 Grand cru classé vineyards and many more incredible wineries, each offering insight into their rich winemaking heritage that has been passed on for generations.

Though its name may not be familiar, the Garonne River is among the most beloved waterways in the world of wine lovers. As you sail its languid waters, gaze upon gentle hills laden with vineyards and riverside outcroppings dotted with honey-colored castles that share long histories of skirmishes. Sleepy French villages set the tone of life along the Garonne, where a slow pace and gentle patience serve the wine-growing industry well. Fishing is also prevalent along the river’s banks; you will pass some of the many carrelets (small fishing huts) hugging the shores.

Set sail through the heart of the Bordeaux wine region as you journey along the Garonne River. Famous for its distinct color-the result of sediment-rich freshwater from its origins high in the Pyrenees Mountains mixing with the salty seawater of the Gironde estuary-this dynamic waterway plays a vital role in the economy of southwestern France. Part of the meandering Canal des Deux Mers ("Canal of the Two Seas”), it connects the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans, allowing a shorter and safer route between the two while bolstering inland trade and transportation.

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.