Suggestion for a tailor-made trip: From Bordeaux to Cognac without a car, your wine tour by train
Tailor-made trip / Wine lovers / Without a car / Bordeaux, Cognac, La Rochelle
Discover Bordeaux, La Rochelle, and Cognac with our exclusive itinerary , "From Bordeaux to Cognac without a car." By train or bike, you'll travel with peace of mind between the prestigious châteaux of Saint-Émilion, the famous Cognac houses, and the sea spray of La Rochelle. This car-free wine tour focuses on slow tourism and authentic encounters: from tastings in the heart of the vineyards to strolls around the Old Port. A responsible, elegant and perfectly paced getaway, where the only path to follow is that of pleasure and discovery.
100% customizable trip. Suggested 5-day itinerary, starting at €1,290 for two people, depending on season, type of accommodation, and activities. See the suggested itinerary.
Highlights of this trip to Bordeaux:
- Peace of mind and safety: Enjoy wine and Cognac tastings to the fullest with a 100% train itinerary, without the hassle of driving or parking.
- Exceptional contrasts: A seamless journey connecting the UNESCO vineyards of Saint-Émilion, the prestige of the Cognac cellars, and the sea air of La Rochelle.
- Authentic slow tourism: A sustainable immersion at your own pace, focusing on walking, cycling, and direct encounters with local producers.
An idea of your program
Day 1: Discovering Bordeaux
Arrival in Bordeaux by train. We will give you your travel booklet containing your itinerary and all our addresses and recommendations. Drop off your luggage at your hotel (eco-certified) and set off to explore the streets of old Bordeaux.
Optional: Become an expert on Bordeaux wines! We offer a private tasting of five organic wines from the finest Bordeaux appellations (Saint-Emilion, Margaux, Sauternes, etc.). In a friendly atmosphere, you will discover the terroirs grape varieties of Bordeaux. A simple and fun way to learn everything there is to know about wine!
Optional: Join our local guide for a deep dive into Bordeaux's wine culture! Our Wine Walk guided tour will show you the city in a whole new light: do you know why Bordeaux wines have become so famous around the world? Do you know where the word "vintage" comes from? And do you know Eleanor of Aquitaine, the most rock 'n' roll queen of the Middle Ages? This one-hour historical walk through the city center concludes with a guided tasting of two Bordeaux wines, in a friendly atmosphere with your expert wine guide!
For dinner, we will recommend delicious organic and local restaurants to round off this first day in style.
Day 2: Cycling through the vineyards / Saint-Emilion
Depart in the morning by train to Saint-Emilion. Pick up your electric bikes and set off to explore the vineyards! We have planned an unforgettable visit to a Saint-Emilion Grand cru estate that practices organic farming. You will discover the underground cellars carved into the limestone rock that make Saint-Emilion so unique and taste wines that you will remember for a long time to come!
For lunch, we will recommend authentic restaurants. If you wish, you can also enjoy a picnic in a château.
In the afternoon, continue your bike ride and follow whichever paths take your fancy! Optionally, you can take a guided tour of the village of Saint-Emilion and its monolithic church carved out of stone.
Return to Bordeaux by train. Dinner on your own (we will recommend organic and responsible restaurants).
Day 3: Heading for La Rochelle
Depart for La Rochelle by train. Stroll freely around the city or take a guided tour to learn about its history. Explore the Old Port and its iconic towers, wander through the arcaded streets, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Les Halles market.
For dinner, enjoy seafood at our recommended local restaurants before returning to your eco-certified hotel. If you have sea legs and a taste for adventure, we can even arrange an unusual night on a boat moored in the Old Port!
OPTION: ADDITIONAL DAY
Departing from La Rochelle, discover the Île de Ré by bike, or follow the Vélodyssée cycle route to Rochefort to see the famous statue of the Demoiselles de Rochefort and visit the Corderie Royale.
Day 4: Flavors of Cognac
Take the train to Cognac for an immersion in the Charente elegance. After dropping off your luggage, discover Cognac's historic houses. We have planned unforgettable cellar tours and tastings for you. The town of Cognac is best explored on foot, offering a perfect transition between culture and tasting. For your overnight stay, choose between the unusual charm of a lodge on the banks of the Charente and the elegance of a characterful residence in the heart of the town.
Day 5: Return to Bordeaux
Return by train to Bordeaux.
