Ultimate France
Ultimate France
Ultimate France
14 Days Starting in Nice, France and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Monte Carlo, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Aix-en-Provence, Calanques National Park, Lourmarin, Les Baux-de-Provence, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
G721M26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate France" tour, a luxurious journey through the heart of France and Monaco. Begin your adventure in the glamorous French Riviera, exploring the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and tasting local delicacies in St. Tropez. Discover the artistic allure of Aix-en-Provence and the breathtaking landscapes of Calanques National Park. Delight in a private cruise, a chauffeured drive through Provence, and a traditional French cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef. Savor exquisite wines in Bordeaux and indulge in a gourmet dinner at Château de Ferrand. Conclude your journey in Paris, with a celebration dinner atop the Eiffel Tower. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Enjoy seamless transfers, luxurious accommodations, and the expertise of local guides throughout your journey.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Chateau La Coste: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience sample the estate’s organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. In 2009, the wines of Château La Coste were labeled "Organic Agriculture", a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature.
- Chateau La Coste: Join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Bordeaux: Take a relaxing bike tour around the City of Bordeaux. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district and stop in the picturesque park Jardin Public. See the Palais Gallien and the grand shopping centrer, Glace des Grands Hommes.
- Bordeaux: Join a Local Expert to discover the best sights in Bordeaux. See the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the famous Water Mirror, the stunning neoclassic theatre and the modern architecture of the Cité du Vin.
Exceptional Dining
Monte Carlo: Meet your fellow travellers as you dine by the yacht-filled marina in Fontvieille.
Cassis: Indulge in a divine seafood dinner in the charming fishing village of Cassis.
Cavaillon: Visit the acclaimed winery, Domaine de la Citadelle, for a tour of its grounds and a picnic lunch. Savour a selection of Provencal favourites paired with local wine.
: Meet Jean-Marc Boyer, the Michelin-starred Chef of Le Puits du Tresor where you enjoy a traditional French cooking class.
Saint-Émilion: Indulge in a private tour of Château de Ferrand and its wine cellars. Sample fine vintages guided by the resident Sommelier, followed by a gourmet wine-paired dinner.
Bordeaux: Conclude your journey with a superb dining experience at the historic Château du Ferrand, where you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner. Learn how the estate is working towards a more environmental future by using organic fertilizers, protecting local fauna and harvesting by hand.
Paris: Reminisce about your trip with your fellow travellers in style on the Eiffel Tower
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To The French Riviera
Location: Monte Carlo
Accommodation: Fairmont Monte Carlo.
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Monte Carlo
Meals Included: Dinner
Transfer to your hotel before dining waterside at Fontvieille marina. See the Belle Epoque casino and enjoy an evening drive along the legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit.
Day 2: Nice Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Nice
Accommodation: Fairmont Monte Carlo.
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Monte Carlo
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, join a Local Expert touring the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Continue to Nice where joining a Local Expert on a walk through the streets of Old Nice viewing the opera house, admire the Sainte-Réparate Cathedral and maybe taste some socca at the colourful food market on the Cours Saleya.
Day 3: Star-Studded St. Tropez
Location: Saint-Tropez
Accommodation: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence.
Accommodation Name: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Step into the glamour of the French Riviera. Cruise into St. Tropez, and with a Local Expert, taste the local Tarte Tropézienne at the bakery where it was originally created.
Day 4: Aix-En-Provence Relaxed Start
Location: Aix-en-Provence
Accommodation: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence.
Accommodation Name: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Follow the footsteps of Paul Cézanne along the Old Town and tree-lined boulevard of Cours Mirabeau and enjoy a French pastry and coffee in one of the most prestigious residences. Then curate your visit at the stunning Château La Coste winery and open-air museum. Join a Local Expert for a leisurely walk among installations created by leading modern artists and architects, or savour a tasting of vintages at this organic vineyard.
Day 5: Calanques National Park Relaxed Start
Location: Calanques National Park
Accommodation: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence.
Accommodation Name: Château de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and unwind at your boutique hotel, perhaps with a stroll through the Château gardens or a relaxing moment by the pool. Travel through traditional French hilltop villages en route to Cassis, where you will board your private cruise through the Calanques National Park. Sail past towering reddish-brown limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, narrow fjord-like inlets, and secluded beaches. This evening, indulge in a three-course dinner at the charming Chez Gilbert.
Day 6: French Icons
Location: Lourmarin
Accommodation: Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes.
Accommodation Name: Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Visit the village of Lourmarin to browse the stalls of its famous market. Take a seat in your vintage Citroen 2CV and embark on a chauffeured drive over the Luberon mountain, through lush vineyards and scenic villages arriving at the Domaine de la Citadelle winery to taste its wines with a picnic prepared by local chef Madame Dromer.
Day 7: Les Baux Relaxed Start
Location: Les Baux-de-Provence
Accommodation: Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes.
Accommodation Name: Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the renowned Pont du Gard, a well-preserved Roman aqueduct. Observe how this three-level, 900-footlong bridge was built out of soft yellow limestone blocks from a nearby quarry. Stop in Avignon and admire the Palace of the Popes, the famous broken bridge and beautiful squares shaded by leafy platanes. Continue through the Alpilles National Park to the village of Les Baux-de-Provence.
Day 8: Arles And Carcassonne Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Carcassonne
Accommodation: Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne.
Accommodation Name: Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey on to the fortified city of Carcassonne, one of the largest surviving medieval walled cities in Europe. Explore Van Gogh's town of Arles and visit the Roman Amphitheatre with a Local Expert. Journey through Camargue to your hotel in Carcassonne in the heart of the city.
Day 9: Carcassonne And The Languedoc Region Relaxed Start
Location: Carcassonne
Accommodation: Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne.
Accommodation Name: Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Meet Jean-Marc Boyer, the Michelin-starred Chef of Le Puits du Trésor where you enjoy a traditional French cooking class and an exquisite lunch accompanied by local wine.
Day 10: Bordeaux And St. Émilion
Location: Bordeaux
Accommodation: Hôtel Burdigala, Bordeaux.
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Burdigala, Bordeaux
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to the enchanting city of Bordeaux where you will have time to have lunch and explore this elegant, 18th century jewel on the banks of the Garonne. Refreshed and ready to explore further afield, visit the nearby, charming town of St. Émilion, regarded as one of the most beautiful in France and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. After time visiting its winding cobbled streets and 12th-century monolithic church, drive through the lush vineyards to Château de Ferrand, home to Madame Bic and Monsieur Chandon. Here we enjoy a tour of the winery followed by a tasting of some of its fine vintages and an exclusive dinner in a wonderful setting.
Day 11: Bordeaux Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Bordeaux
Accommodation: Hôtel Burdigala, Bordeaux.
Accommodation Name: Le Grand Hotel, Bordeaux.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Learn about the 18th-century architecture of Vieux Bordeaux with a Local Expert. Or set off on a leisurely bike ride around the Garonne River before ending at the picturesque Jardin Public.
Day 12: Travel To Paris Relaxed Start
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hôtel Napoléon, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Napoléon, Paris
Meals Included: Lunch
After a leisurely breakfast, board your high-speed train that whisks you through the French countryside to Paris, the most romantic city in the world. Enjoy lunch in the Montparnasse district before setting off to see the landmark sights of the capital city including Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy an evening at leisure in this dazzling city.
Day 13: Paris Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hôtel Napoléon, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Napoléon, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a Local Expert to discover the artists of Montmartre or explore the hidden squares and galleries of Paris. Tonight, the climax of your French trip will be a celebration dinner on the glittering Eiffel Tower: a chance to bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers and this wonderful city.
Day 14: Depart Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your private transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
What's Included
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Meals
7 dinners, 13 breakfasts, and 2 lunches are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities.
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Chateau La Coste Experience
Sample the estate’s organic wines and visit their contemporary wine cellar.
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Local Expert Tours
Join Local Experts for guided tours in various locations including Bordeaux, Aix-en-Provence, and Nice.
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Hotel Amenities
Hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and complimentary Wi-Fi at all hotels are included.
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Transfers
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold.
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Private Concert
Experience a private concert during your meal in Gemenos.
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Cooking Class
Meet Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Marc Boyer for a traditional French cooking class.
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Private Cruise
Board a private cruise through the Calanques National Park.
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Chauffeured Drive
Take a seat in a chauffeured Citroen 2CV for a drive through Provence.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and related expenses are not included.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy seamless transfers on your journey start and end dates, including high-speed train travel from Bordeaux to Paris. Private cruises and chauffeured drives are also included for select activities.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
- In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level. ?
- Included at all hotels.
- Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
- Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
- On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.?
- Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
- Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Curated Experiences
- Aix-en-Provence: Explore Aix en Provence with a Local Expert and discover the ancient Roman town with its bubbling fountains and elegant 18th-century architecture. Take an easy amble through the maze-like streets of the Old Town under the cool shadow of the Aix Cathedral. Follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne along the grand, tree-lined boulevard of Cours Mirabeau.
- Saint-Émilion: Visit the charming town of St-Émilion, regarded as one of the most beautiful in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk to the walls for a scenic view or visit the Place du Marché, a lovely square in the heart of the town with charming cafés, boutiques, and restaurants.
- : Awaken your senses at the Bassins des Lumières Museum.
- Paris: See the iconic sights of the French capital
- Gemenos: This evening, enjoy a private concert in the grounds of your beautiful hotel before dinner.
Passport Moments
- Monaco City: Join your Travel Concierge for an orientation of glamorous Monaco. See the Grand Prix circuit, renowned for hosting the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, and admire the magnificent Belle Époque casino. Stroll along the yacht-filled marina before heading to your elegant restaurant for dinner this evening.
- Nice: Join a Local Expert to take a walk through the charming streets of Old Nice and see the Opera, the antique market, and the St. Reparate Cathedral.
- French Riviera: Join a Local Expert to visit the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its gardens. Built by the passionate art collector Madame Ephrussi, she gathered the best from each era including delicate pieces of furniture once belonging to Marie Antoinette.
- Cassis: Board your private cruise through the Calanques National Park to admire the towering limestone cliffs and the long, narrow and deep fjord-like inlets.
- Lourmarin: Visit the tree lined avenues of Lourmarin and explore the lively market featuring crafts, clothing and local delicacies.
- Provence: Take a seat in your chauffeured Citroen 2CV and embark on a drive through the rolling countryside past fields of lavender.
- Avignon: Stop in Avignon and admire the Palace of the Popes, the famous broken bridge and beautiful squares shaded by imposing, leafy platanes.
- Les Baux-de-Provence: Journey through the Alpilles National Park to one of the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux-de-Provence, perched on a plateau.
- Arles: Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh as your Local Expert walks you through the city that inspired many of the artist's paintings.
- Carcassonne: Carcassonne represents one of the biggest and best-preserved fortified cities in Europe, with 53 watchtowers and 1.5 miles of ramparts open to the public. Explore this real-life Magic Kingdom with a Local Expert and uncover its rich history, dating back to the pre-Roman period.
- Cite de Carcassone: Admire flora and fauna, rural vistas and lush vineyards on this gentle 1.5-hour cruise. Built in the late 17th century as a shipping short cut between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean,?the Canal du Midi is one of Europe’s oldest canals still in operation.
- Saint-Tropez: Take in the best of Saint-Tropez as a Local Expert guides you through the remains of the ancient landmark Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption and its colourful bell tower. Afterward, taste the local Saint-Tropez tart pastry in the bakery where it was first created in the 1950s.
Personalise your day
- Chateau La Coste: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience sample the estate’s organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. In 2009, the wines of Château La Coste were labeled "Organic Agriculture", a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature.
- Chateau La Coste: Join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects.
- Bordeaux: Take a relaxing bike tour around the City of Bordeaux. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district and stop in the picturesque park Jardin Public. See the Palais Gallien and the grand shopping centrer, Glace des Grands Hommes.
- Bordeaux: Join a Local Expert to discover the best sights in Bordeaux. See the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the famous Water Mirror, the stunning neoclassic theatre and the modern architecture of the Cité du Vin.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations including the Fairmont Monte Carlo, Château de Fonscolombe in Aix-en-Provence, Maison Albar L'Imperator in Nimes, Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Hôtel Burdigala in Bordeaux, and Hôtel Napoléon in Paris.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Ultimate France tour?
The Ultimate France tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a private cruise through the Calanques National Park, a traditional French cooking class with Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Marc Boyer, and a chauffeured drive through Provence in a vintage Citroen 2CV. Additionally, guests can enjoy a private concert during a meal in Gemenos and a celebration dinner on the Eiffel Tower.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes guided tours with Local Experts in various locations such as Nice, Bordeaux, Aix-en-Provence, and Carcassonne. These tours offer insights into the local culture, history, and architecture.
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What dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
The tour offers exceptional dining experiences including a seafood dinner in Cassis, a picnic lunch at Domaine de la Citadelle winery, a gourmet wine-paired dinner at Château de Ferrand, and a celebration dinner on the Eiffel Tower. Guests will also have the opportunity to indulge in a traditional French cooking class.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Guests will stay in luxurious accommodations such as the Fairmont Monte Carlo, Château de Fonscolombe in Aix-en-Provence, Maison Albar L'Imperator in Nimes, Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery, Hôtel Burdigala in Bordeaux, and Hôtel Napoléon in Paris.
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Is transportation included throughout the tour?
Yes, transportation is included with seamless transfers on journey start and end dates, high-speed train travel from Bordeaux to Paris, and private cruises and chauffeured drives for select activities.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.
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Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?
We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.
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What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?
A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.
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Who travels with Luxury Gold?
We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.
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What is the role of the Well-Being Director?
Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
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Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
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We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.