Country Roads of France - Classic Group
Country Roads of France - Classic Group
Country Roads of France - Classic Group
16 Days Starting and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: France, Monaco
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E723ZN19
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
20 - 40
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Consider this your ‘Tour de France’ — a 16-day guided tour that embraces the best of the country, from fortified towns and fine wines. Drive along the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco, stopping to step inside its cathedral, where Princess Grace has been laid to rest. In Avignon, play pétanque, a bocce-like sport, then celebrate your new skills with a fine French aperitif. Travel to Carcassonne, a fortified city complete with ramparts and a medieval keep. Drive through the Valley of the Dordogne, then feast on a farm-to-table dinner paired with regional wine in Sarlat-La-Caneda. In Paris, embrace the City of Light’s most beloved sites: marvel at the Eiffel Tower, gaze at Louvre's glorious facades, and be driven down the posh Champs Elysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To Paris
Accommodation Name: Pullman Paris Centre Bercy
Meals Included: Dinner, with Wine
On arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, transfers to the hotel leave terminal 2F at 08:30, 11:00 and 13:30, and 30 minutes later from terminal 1. After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. At 17:30, meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before joining a Welcome Dinner at Brasserie Bofinger, a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by country recipes.
Day 2 : Champagne Region And On To Dijon
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Journey to historic Reims where an orientation by your Travel Director reveals the charming architectural diversity of the city. Stop to savour a taste of champagne before travelling past the Champagne region en route to Dijon.
Day 3 : Free Time In Dijon Relaxed Start
Accommodation Name: Grand Dijon La Cloche Dijon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy the Burgundy capital of Dijon. Its many handsome buildings recall the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune? In the evening, don't miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.
Day 4 : Chamonix
Accommodation Name: Alpina Eclectic Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel towards the Mâconnais and Beaujolais before turning east into the Alps. A scenic symphony awaits you as you ascend into the high Alps and climb towards Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. Take in panoramic views of the mountain peaks and valley below from the Chamonix cable car. In the evening you may choose to try a local pierrade at a local trendy eatery in a traditional chalet. This Optional Experience provides the chance to try a typical regional meal, cooked on a table barbecue using on a hot stone.
Day 5 : Lakeside Annecy And Grenoble Relaxed Start
Accommodation Name: Park Hôtel Grenoble-MGallery.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, it's a medieval spectacle and a summer getaway for the French and the Swiss locals. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, aptly named for the network of canals criss-crossing through the Old Town. Explore the city’s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savour a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6 : The French Riviera To Reach Nice
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Glorious mountain scenery will be yours to enjoy as you travel along a spectacular route, used by the Emperor Napoleon when he returned from his first exile to try to take the throne of France once more. Continue to the French Riviera to reach the elegant resort of Nice. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. In the evening, why not walk through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros?
Day 7 : Monaco And The Côte D’Azur
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’Azur. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles. Then enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and walk with your Travel Director through the old town to see the Royal Palace and yacht-filled harbour. Your exploration continues as you visit inside Monaco Cathedral, housing the tomb of Princess Grace. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera at your own pace. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit to the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline?
Day 8 : Picturesque Provence
Accommodation Name: Aquabella & Spa Aix-en-Provence.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pétanque. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills as you take part in a game, completed by a glass of pastis, a French apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.
Day 9 : Avignon And Pont Du Gard
Accommodation Name: Aquabella & Spa Aix-en-Provence.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Pont du Gard to see the magnificent ancient Roman aqueduct bridge. Continue on to Avignon to enjoy views of the remaining arches of the Pont d'Avignon and the fortified Papal Palace.Stop at the beautiful Domaine de la Vallongue for a tasting of its renowned wines and gastronomic olive oils. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, the estate uses traditional practices throughout, creating a sustainable business for future generations.
Day 10 : Carcassonne And To Albi
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Saint Antoine Albi.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head to beautiful Arles and learn about its historical connection to Vincent Van Gogh, who produced over 300 artworks during his time in the city. Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travellers are often amazed at their first sight of this medieval gem, known for its fortress - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. Travel to Albi, the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec. During your orientation with your Travel Director, marvel at iconic sites including the views of Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the famous awe-inspiring cathedral, before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 11 : Free Time In Albi
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Saint Antoine Albi.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Enjoy a full day at leisure, to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Albi.This evening savour a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients, at a local restaurant.
Day 12 : Cahors And Rocamadour Relaxed Start
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Perigord
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it's an experience to delight all of the senses. Travel to Rocamadour and enjoy free time to explore this medieval town perched on a cliff side above the Alzou River and known as a resting place for pilgrims on their way to Spain. Continue to the beautiful village of La Roque Gageac, with its maze of romantic alleys and two-hectare parks .
Day 13 : Exploring The Dordogne Valley
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Perigord
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Start the day with a morning drive into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit Lascaux, where the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings have been faithfully reproduced.Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.
Day 14 : Paris, The City Of Light
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel onwards to immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Paris where on arrival you are free to explore this fascinating city as you wish. As evening descends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don't miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.
Day 15 : Romantic Capital On The Seine
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the imposing facades of the Louvre, the obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. Today enjoy an Insight Choice experience. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join a Local Expert, an avid foodie, as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. You are in for a memorable evening starting with a delicious Celebration Dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole, serving delicious French cuisine and wine.
Day 16 : Au Revoir Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your departure transfer will arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 or 11:00.
What's Included
-
Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
-
Airport Transfers at Destination
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
-
Fully Guided
Yes. An experience Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local speciality representing the destination.
What's Not Included
International flights to and from the start and end points of the tour are not included.
Check out our Q&As
-
What is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 40 guests.
-
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
The fitness level Low - These tours typically feature up to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
-
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Yes
-
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Complimentary arrival and departure transfer by shuttle coach is included on the arrival and departure day of your guided holiday. If your flight times do not coincide with the shuttle coach transfer timings you may choose to book and purchase a transfer.
-
What is the tipping policy?
Hotel and restaurant tips are included. All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are also included.
-
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in an Itinerary.
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, An English speaking local guide on this tour.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Sunday
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 13, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Oct 05, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 19, 2025 - May 04, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 26, 2025 - May 11, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 03, 2025 - May 18, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Book with Confidence
-
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.
-
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.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
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.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.