Short Itinerary

DAY 1 - SUN 01 APR - PARIS - REIMS

On arrival at Charles de Gaulle you will proceed through Customs and Immigration where you will board your coach, destination Reims. Your Wine Tour of France begins by travelling north-east to the winegrowing region of Champagne. You will arrive in the afternoon in the historical royal city of Reims for a short tour. Be taken to see the magnificent CATHEDRAL OF REIMS by a local guide - don't miss the smiling angel on the west façade.

Enjoy a WELCOME DINNER tonight hosted by your tour director. (D)

DAY 2 - MON 02 APR - EPERNAY

Continue your journey past the adjoining Palais du Tau, now a museum housing original statuary and tapestries from the cathedral.

Travelling onto the town of Epernay, where you will check into your hotel for a two night stay. Epernay, at the head of Vallée de la Marne, is home to a number of Champagne's Grand Marque Houses. Beneath its streets are some 115km of underground galleries that are lined with millions of bottles of wine!

After settling in and freshening up join your fellow wine lovers for un baguette et vin served at your hotel. Later in the afternoon stroll through the streets of the town and along the imposing Avenue de Champagne to arrive at the splendid premises of POL ROGER. There we will be welcomed in Champagne style and taste our first Champagne. Tonight you will dine at the vibrant Les Cepages Restaurant. (D)

DAY 3 - TUE 03APR - EPERNAY

After breakfast you will be following the winding Route du Vin through the villages and vineyards of the slopes of the Montagne de Reims. Enjoy a brief stop to view the imposing windmill Verzenay, and then continue to Reims. Our first stop of the day will be the exquisite HOUSE OF POMMEROY, quite simply, one of the most glittering estates in Champagne. Arriving via the gracious gates and park, walk up to the Gothic castle - like buildings, then down the imposing stairs to the subterranean cellars that are carved out of the soft chalk rock of the region. Following a tour of the cellars, you are provided with a tasting in a private salon, return to Epernay. Visit the site of the MOET & CHANDON MUSEUM. Your evening in Epernay tonight is at leisure. (B)

DAY 4 - WED 04APR - EPERNAY - ALSACE REGION - COLMAR

You will be spending the day travelling through some very beautiful countryside, farewell to Epernay and heading east and then south via Chalons-en-Champagne, across changing countryside to the sophisticated city of Nancy. Stay a while and admire the magnificent Baroque architecture on our walking tour of the historical centre. In the 18th century, Nancy was embellished by the then Duke of Lorraine, Stanislas Leczinski. Admire the grandiose Place Stanislas, one of the most stylish squares in France.

Moving on, arrive in Colmar; which is the best preserved living town in the fascinating region of province of Alsace, built on the plain at the base of the Vosges Mountains. Alsace is different from the rest of France with an architectural style, cuisine and a language of its own. Colmar is the perfect place to begin to fall in love with the unique charm of the region. Enjoy dinner tonight at your hotel. (B,D)

DAY 5 - THU 05 APR - COLMAR

This morning have a leisurely stroll through the picturesque city of Colmar commencing after those who wished, attended Mass have returned to join us. Mass times can be obtained from the front desk of the hotel. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, past 16^th and 17^th century half timbered burgher houses to the Tanner's quarter and then continue to the charming canal quarter, once used by the wine merchants to ship wine. The rest of the day is for your enjoyment amongst the myriad of fascinating locations and vistas. For those who are not so energetic it is an opportune time for rest and / or relaxation. There are many exciting places to visit; your tour director will have suggestions for you. We also suggest that you peruse the brochures provided by the hotel to select your particular interests. (B)

DAY 6 - FRI 06APR - COLMAR - EXCURSION TO ROUTE DE VIN - COLMAR

After your breakfast you will assemble for our drive along the picturesque Route de Vin. The road winds round the foot of the mountain range through fairytale towns. Vineyards climb the steep slopes and there seem to be a ruined castle on every peak.

Your destination is the historic village of Riquewhir. Surrounded by medieval walls and watchtowers, it is one of the most picturesque villages of Europe. You will stroll along the pedestrian walk way Rue General De Gaulle, past the fine old half timbered houses with geranium-clad balconies. Return to Colmar enjoying the spectacular view as you go. Dinner tonight will be in the historical centre where you can enjoy traditional Alsace cuisine. (B,D)

DAY 7 - SAT 07APR - COLMAR

After breakfast take a short drive to the village of Wintzenheim. Here you'll be the guests of one of the regions great winemakers. JOSMEYER and his family will take you through his winery and hopefully in fresh morning sun, sitting in their cobbled courtyard, you will taste splendid
Riesling and great Pinot Gris wines. Lunch will be in a "winstub" in the village of Selestat. It will be a leisurely affair with food piled high on the plates. Later, travel the road from the lush green valley up to the CHATEAU HAUT KOENIGBOURG. Orchards and vineyards cover the foothills, and forests cover the mountains. This is where fine fruit spirits are distilled and the region is famous for its fruit brandies such as Poire-Williams. Grand and spectacular, this fortified castle of strategic importance has been built, destroyed and rebuilt through the centuries. Huge pink blocks of sandstone dominate the skyline. Enjoy a tour of the complex and a panoramic view of the wine villages and vineyards below. Back to our hotel for free time and dinner tonight will be at own arrangements. (B,L)

DAY 8 - SUN 08APR - COLMAR - BURGUNDY - CHALON-SUR-SAONE, BEAUNE AREA

Journey to Burgundy this morning, historically France's richest province. Through the fortified city of Belfort we continue southwest, following the course of the Douds River to Dole, and then strike north to the splendid city of Dijon. You will have a short break at leisure to wander through the cobblestone streets of Dijon today, taking a break for a baguette or some other regional dish. Lovers of food will not be disappointed - don't forget to try the famous gingerbread and, of course, the celebrated Dijon mustard.

Additionally, Dijon is a delight for shopping and you will not have to walk too far to find exclusive French labels as well as inexpensive boutiques.

From the city of Dijon, drive south into the Cote D'Or [the Golden Slope]. When you reach the village of Fixin we are in the Cotes de Nuits, source of the finest Pinot Noir red wines in the world. Through Gevrey-Chamberlan, Morey-Saint-Denis and Chambolle- Musigny we drive, passing such famous vineyards as Clos de Beze, Bonnes Mares, and Clos de Tart. Break your journey at the 16th century CHATEU DE CLOS DE VOUGET, formerly an Abbey, and now the headquarters of the Confrerie des Cevaliers du Tastevin. Join a short tour of the museum and view the massive cellar and vineyard implements that have been used through the ages. Then continue through Vosne-Romanee and Nuits-St-George to Chalon-sur-Saone, just south of Beaune. Beaune is the capital of this part of the wine world.

After settling into your hotel, head to Beaune and stroll down the boulevard on a tour through this charming, medieval town. Still surrounded by defensive walls, Beaune was a favour residence of the Dukes of Burgundy in days gone by. Our first port of call will be the Hotel-Dieu. Since its inception in the 15th Century the Hospice de Beaune, as it is popularly known, has welcome both invalid and tourist. Its spires, patterned Burgundian roof tiles, halls and courtyard form Beaune's most famous building - gem of medieval architecture. We will meander through the numerous rooms, including the Great Hall, the Kitchen, Pharmacy, and Laboratory and through Saint Louis' Room to view the Last Judgment Polyptych which formerly stood above the altar in the Chapel. We come together later tonight for dinner of fine Burgundian cuisine at your hotel. (B, D).

DAY 9 - MON 09APR - CHALON-SUR-SAONE, BEAUNE AREA

Today you will be guests of the leading Burgundian producer, LOUISE JADOT. We will be taken to the vineyards of the village of Puligny-Montrachet and in the walled close of the Premier, Cru vineyard of 'Les Referts" we will taste of that very vineyard. Then at their stunning cellars in Beanne, we will see how modern red and white Burgundies are made and taste a range of great wines. You will also enjoy lunch in a restaurant in Beanne. What is left of the day will be free, you might want to take a light supper in the town this evening. (B,L)

DAY 10 - TUE 10APR - CHALON-SUR-SAONE - EXCURSION TO THE COTE CHALONNAIS - CHALON-SUR-SAONE

This morning drive south through famous white villages such as Meursault, passing by the impressive Chateau de Meursault, on the way to Cote Chalonnaise district of Burgundy. Through the village of Mercurey we arrive at MAISON ANTONIN RODET, now one of Burgundy's largest producers whose portfolio includes the famous Domaine Jacques Prieur label of Grand Cru wines. A lovely buffet banquet lunch will be in what were stables in the keep of the medieval Chateau du Rully. In the afternoon drive through the hills of the Haut Cote de Beaune, back to the Beaune area. (B,L)

Note: If lunch in Chateau du Rully is not available an alternative will be provided.

DAY 11 - WED 11APR - CHALON-SUR-SAONE - BEAUJOLIAS - NORTHERN RHONE - LYON

Travelling once again, make your way south, passing in the mid morning Tournus to admire the well fortified twin-towered Abbey church of St-Philbert, one of the supreme achievements of Romanesque architecture. Continuing through the town of Macon, birthplace of the romantic poet and politician, Lamartine, we wind our way through the pretty hills of Beaujolais. This, Burgundy's southernmost region, runs for some 70 kms fro just below the town of Macon almost to the city of Lyon.

The only red grape variety permitted for Beaujolais is Gamay and with the technique of partial maceration carbonique used for its vinifaction the wines of the region are unique. They are light, bright and laughing! We wind our way through the pretty Cru villages with names like St-Amour Julienas, Chenas and Moulin-a-vent before reaching Romaneche-Thorins. There, we will visit the cellars of CHATEAU DES JACQUES, and taste a range of wines. We then continue west and south the surprising city of Lyon.

Dramatically situated on the banks of the Rhone and the Soane rivers, Lyon is an important gastronomic centre. Once you have checked into our hotel enjoy a walk into the restored old quarter of Lyon. Here you will find a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, covered passageways, Renaissance building and renowned restaurants. In the city packed with restaurants, you will be spoilt with choice this evening with dinner at your own arrangements. (B)

DAY 12 - THU 12APR - LYON, NORTHERN RHONE

Travel the road that follows the river on the western side provides views of steeply terraced vineyards and the mighty river below. It winds its way through the appellations of Cote-Rotie and Condrieu down to the town of Tournon. From Tournon we cross the river to the village of Tain. Tain takes its full title, Tain L'Hermitage, from the hill that rises above the town. Legend has it that the crusader Gaspard de Sterimbourg
built the chapel that stands near the crest and the vines he planted came from the Persian city of Shiraz. On the great hill, the walls of the Hermitage are painted with the names of Jaboulet and Chapoutier. Spend the remainder of the morning tasting wines at the cellars of PAUL JABOULET, a leading producer. Tonight dine at the restored Le Nord Restaurant on genuine Lyonnais cuisine. (B,D)

DAY 13 - FRI 13APR - LYON - NÎMES, SOUTHERN RHONE

Today set forth into France's warmer southern Rhone region. The countryside takes on a different appearance with limestone outcrops and olive groves. Lavender grows by the
road and the atmosphere is suddenly more Mediterranean. The destination this morning is the Roman town of Orange. As you drive into the town the elaborately decorated Triumphal Arch comes into view.

Strolling through the pretty streets arrive at the well preserved Roman Theatre complete with its back drop wall which Louis XIV called the 'most beautiful wall in the kingdom'. You may like to wander through the park for a spectacular view of Orange and the region beyond.

Continuing south once again, stop at the magnificent Roman Pont du Gard - a superb example of the Roman's technical expertise.

This aqueduct bridge comprises three tiers of continuous arches and it originally carried water from the springs at Uzes to Nîmes 50Km away. After admiring this, the highest bridge the Romans ever built, continue to Nîmes.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure. You may choose to wander through the narrow streets and intimate squares. Don't miss the well preserved Roman amphitheatre, the best preserved of its kind. Dinner tonight will be local cuisine at your hotel. (B,D)

DAY 14 - SAT 14APR - NÎMES - AVIGNON

Today we will gather together mid morning and set of on an exploration of the beautiful countryside of Provence. Travelling through rich, fertile farming land we arrive at the charming, historical town of Arles. We will explore the medieval and Roman monuments including the ornate St Trophime, Roman Theatre and splendid Roman arena. Vincent Van Gogh painted here in 1888-89 and there is a monument in his honour. Lunch will be your own arrangements, perhaps at one of the many delightful outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Travelling north, we will arrive at the fascinating Papal centre of Avignon. Situated on the left bank of the Rhone, Avignon is the chief town of Vaucluse. Within the massive ramparts lie the imposing Palais des Papes and the 13th century Petit Palais. We will see the bridge of 'Sur le Pont' fame. Enjoy an ORIENTATION TOUR.

And then you will have free time to visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame des Doms and the adjoining gardens or wander through the old quarter to Place de l'Horloge the centre of Avignon life. (B)

DAY 15 - SUN 15APR - AVIGNON - AIX-EN-PROVENCE - AVIGNON

Morning at leisure for shopping, exploring Avignon at your own pace. Then, drive to the village Chateauneuf-du-Pape which is dominated by the ruins of a castle built by Pope John XXII. You will be free to enjoy the sunny foods of the region and sip its famous reds and whites.

Chateauneuf du Pape is a name that everyone knows for its warm red wines which have captured the world's imagination. Here the vineyard soil is more like to be flattish smooth stones than earth, and vineyard tractors have caterpillar tracks, not tyres! You will visit the beautiful CHATEAU LA NERTHE, taste a range of its legendry wines. This evening you have time to yourself to experience the local cuisine. (B)

DAY 16 - TUE 16APR - AVIGNON - DIJON

After breakfast start the journey north, heading for Paris, with an overnight in Dijon. You will have plenty of time in Dijon today, the city of spires, where you may elect to join us on a walking tour of this Burgundian capital. Pass by historical monuments including NOTRE DAME, where luck may be bestowed on all, HOTEL DE VOGUE, THE BAROQUE PALAIS DES DUCS, ST MICHEL'S CATHEDRAL and the COLONNADED PALACE DE LA LIBERATION. The architecture takes on a distinctive Burgundian appearance with high sloping multicolored tiled roofs. (B)

DAY 17 - TUE 17APR - DIJON- PARIS

A comfortable drive to Paris past Fontainebleau Forest. After you have checked into our hotel you will assemble to join a circular tour of Paris to acquaint first timers and a refresher for returnees. Paris is an extremely diverse city where people find it difficult not to find a plethora to enrich their particular interests. Use this opportunity to highlight the tour map and the Paris guide so that you can enjoy and productively engage yourself in a very memorable way. An optional afternoon excursion to the Louvre is available; tonight a lively cabaret show might just be the ticket! (B)

DAY 18 - WED 18APR - PARIS

One full day to explore the city that's known throughout the world for its fashions, art and museums, delicious food, and joie de vivre. Included sightseeing with a local expert starts with an inside visit to NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL. Then many of the bestknown Parisian sights: LA SORBONNE, ARC DE TRIOMPHE, OPÉRA, MADELEINE, THE EIFFEL TOWER, THE PYRAMID NEAR THE LOUVRE, THE INVALIDES, AND CHAMPS ELYSÉES. Optional excursions are also available to the Palace and Gardens of Versailles. Tonight, enjoy a French farewell dinner to celebrate the success of your tour. (B,D)

DAY 19 - THU 19APR - PARIS

After breakfast this morning, be ready with your luggage to be transferred to the airport for our homeward journey. (B)

GROUP LEADER

Chris Cairns

Chris has worked exclusively in the wine industry for around 15 years. She achieved a Bachelor of Applied Science (Viticulture) at Charles Sturt University and has, since 1998, worked with Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE (NMIT).   Chris currently co-ordinates the Viticulture and Wine programs at the Institute, which now delivers short courses in wine grape growing, wine making and wine marketing through to degree programs.

NMIT has produced more than 55 award-winning wines over 6 vintages - including gold in the Jimmy Watson class at the Royal Melbourne Wine show.

Enhancing wine production knowledge (and appreciation, in fact a great deal of appreciation), Chris has travelled and consulted in many new and established wine growing regions, from the Northern Territory to Tasmania in Australia, to Northern California, Israel, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and China.