11 Nights Bordeaux Sojourn: Paris to Madrid

Type of Vessel

Every Scenic European river cruise begins aboard one of our boutique vessels or custom-built Space-Ships, so named for their spacious guest cabins, dining, and entertaining areas. Each of these Scenic Space-Ships includes numerous dining and sightseeing areas, as well as a lounge and bar area that offers panoramic views. Additionally, guests can soak up the rays at the Sun Deck swimming pool or retreat to the wellness center, which is equipped with a fitness area, beauty salon, and massage rooms. These ships are noteworthy for their luxury suites, which are outfitted with sun lounges, 32-inch high-definition TVs, and complimentary wireless internet access.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Paris, France: Celebrate the start of your holiday at your luxurious hotel where you will meet your Tour Director at a welcome reception tonight.

Day 2 | Bordeaux, France: Travel in style aboard the TGV rail to Bordeaux. On arrival, your friendly crew will welcome you aboard the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your seven night cruise.

Day 3 | Saint-Emilion, France: Enjoy a pleasant morning cruise on the Dordogne River to Libourne. While cruising, perhaps try your hand at a masterclass in French cuisine in Scenic Culinaire. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-milion, an absolute visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. You'll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church, a true trip highlight. Celebrate the 2000-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the estate of Chateau de la Riviare. Surrounded by the vines, mingle with newfound friends, explore the spectacular property or discover the artistic heritage of this region and admire a local artist painting the stunning landscape using paint made from the wine grown on the estate.

Day 4 | Libourne, France: Cruise the tranquil waters of the Dordogne River before you glide across the wide expanse of the mighty Gironde Estuary bound for Blaye. This afternoon perhaps join your on board culinary team for a cooking lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exquisite estate of Chateau Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy a foie gras tasting at a charming local farm.

Day 5 | Blaye, France: Discover the remarkable Blaye region today. Stroll through the Citadel of Blaye or take an active walk through the town. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometer roundtrip cycle along the Captain's Road. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a masterclass in Scenic Culinaire or relax as we cruise to Pauillac. Set in the spectacular surrounds in the Madoc countryside, Chateau Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the chateau is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable classical concert this evening. Soak in the ambience while live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

Day 6 | Medoc, France: This morning, immerse yourself in the scenic Madoc wine region and discover why it is regarded as the world's leading red wine producer, then sample the region's finest at Chateau Gruaud-Larose estate. Or, cycle throughout this beautiful region stopping along the way for a wine tasting. This afternoon discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle, including a walk through the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively visit Serisier Estate, constructed in the early 16th century, and learn the fascinating history of the estate while sampling some of the extraordinary wines produced on site.

Day 7 | Cadillac, France: Venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Chateau Guiraud dessert wines. Or cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to taste the exquisite Grand Cru Class wines of Chateau Myrat. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Cadillac including a visit to Chateau de Cadillac, a truly beautiful chateau that dates back to the 15th century.

Day 8 | Bordeaux, France: Today, discover the World Heritage-listed city of Bordeaux with its idyllic boulevards and architecture. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Bordeaux before a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies. Shop with a Chef at a local food market before cooking up a storm during your exclusive cooking lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Or enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux. For the more energetic, cycle the historic regions of Bordeaux, passing the Royal Gate, the Palais Rohan and through public gardens back to the luxury of your 5-star floating hotel.

Day 9 | Madrid, Spain: Today you'll board your included flight from Bordeaux to Madrid. On arrival transfer to your luxurious hotel, your residence for the next three nights.

Day 10 | Madrid, Spain: Enjoy a tour of Madrid, including the 17th century Austrian Quarter, the Sabatini Gardens and the Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains. This evening, enjoy fine Spanish cuisine in a superb local restaurant.

Day 11 | Madrid, Spain: Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Spain's largest city. Stroll the fashionable boutiques, relax in one of the manicured gardens, or simply explore the surrounding area.

Day 12 | Madrid, Spain: After breakfast you'll be transferred to Madrid airport.

Guest Services

Amenities include personalized butler service.

Food and Dining

River Cafe provides a wonderful range of delicious light meals, snacks and refreshments that guests can enjoy any time. Open early in the morning for early risers looking for breakfast, until late afternoon, the River Cafe has something for every craving.
Crystal Dining offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Relax in the comfortable open seating for two to eight guests and enjoy a wide range of cuisines from local specialties to a seafood gala evening. A la carte menus are available daily.
Panorama Lounge and Bar is where guests can relax, catch up with new friends and enjoy the evening's entertainment. The bar's always open and there's tea and coffee making facilities; along with a selection of board and card games plus a comprehensive library.
Sun Deck is where guests can happily spend hours lost in a book, enjoy the Teppanyaki BBQ or simply soak up the views. With plenty of comfortable seating and a walking track for those active guests, there is an option for everyone.

Onboard Activities/Events

On board you'll have full access to a wellness area, complete with massage services and a hair salon, a gym, special on board entertainment, Wi-Fi internet, e-bikes, cooking classes, tastings, and culinary demonstrations.

Shore Excursions

There are a vast range of activities and sightseeing experiences for you to choose from, so you only see what you want to see, and do what you want to do, at a tempo that suits you. From history to culture, food to nature, there's something for everyone.

Staterooms or Cabins

Downy pillows, Egyptian cotton sheets, fleecy bathrobes and complimentary shoeshine enhance the ambiance.
The balcony suites are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe's rivers and offer modern and elegant furnishings; HDTV, individual climate control and pillow menu. There's also a safe for your valuables, a nightly turndown service and of course a complimentary mini-bar and Wi-Fi.
Balcony Suites are located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks and feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
Royal Suites are the largest featured on the ships and allow you to enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.