Overview
Trace an arc across southern France, from the green Dordogne Valley, famed as the world’s treasury of prehistoric art, to the wild uplands of the Massif Central, la France Profonde (“deep France”) of traditional ways and quiet farm villages. In the Dordogne, we’ll be joined by a celebrated expert in Paleolithic art as we view cathedral-like galleries of mystical paintings created by extraordinary artists 30,000 years ago (and see some special caves that few travelers ever discover). On our culinary explorations, we’ll sample all the regional delights (jambons crus, saucissons, wild boar, peppery Le Puy lentils, luscious bleu d’auvergne, and cantal cheeses), and savor two special dinners at Michelin-starred restaurants. Our walks bring us to hilltop villages and hidden realms scented with herbs and wildflowers, and we’ll spend a magical market day in medieval Sarlat, with its ancient honey-colored stone houses along the Dordogne River. One overnight in the Massif Central will be at the extraordinary inn of Michel Bras, one of France’s most famous chefs, and we finish our adventure with a day to kayak along the dramatic Ardèche Gorge. This unique journey will bring us into the heart of France. Allons-y!
The discovery of the prehistoric cave art was more amazing and interesting than I had even expected. The opportunity to kayak on the Ardeche was a real joy—pushed me out of my comfort zone, and was truly memorable.
— Lana T., Steamboat Spr., CO
Days 1-4
Legendary Vineyards and Haunting Cave Visits
Meeting in Bordeaux, we walk through the region’s famous vineyards to Saint-Émilion, with a tasting at the Château Guadet wine estate, where we are welcomed by Guy-Pétrus Lignac, the proprietor and a descendent of the winemaker at Château Pétrus, one of Bordeaux’s legendary wineries. Our small group enjoys an exclusive private visit to remarkable Lascaux II, to see cave paintings by flickering torches as they would have been experienced 30,000 years ago. In Les Eyzies we’ll be joined by a specialist in Paleolithic art who will enhance our experience of the twists and turns of the magnificent cave galleries at Rouffignac, Font-de-Gaume, and a special lesser-known site.
Legendary Vineyards and Haunting Cave Visits - Days 1-4
Hotel Au Logis des Remparts
Day 1 (1 night), Saint-Emilion, FranceSet in the center of the medieval city of Saint-Emilion, a World Heritage Site, this cozy hotel is actually built on the defensive walls of the town. Guest rooms are comfortable, and there are lovely gardens and a pool area where you can relax with a drink at the end of the day.
Hotel Les Glycines
Days 2 to 4 (3 nights), Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, FranceJust a two-minute walk into the village of Les Eyzies, Les Glycines has large and beautiful, tree-shaded gardens along the river as well as a swimming pool. The guest rooms are comfortable, and evening cocktails can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the gardens.
Days 5-7
Market Day in Sarlat / Clifftop Castle / Sacred Grottoes
We explore the lively market in Sarlat, sample local culinary specialties, walk along the Dordogne River, visit the stunning castle once inhabited by Richard the Lionheart, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and visit the off-the-beaten-path gem of Grottes de Cougnac, twin caves with fairytale stalagmites and rare art.
Market Day in Sarlat / Clifftop Castle / Sacred Grottoes - Days 5-7
Hotel Plaza Madeleine
Day 5 (1 night), Sarlat, FranceLocated just at the entrance to the medieval city, this hotel has well-appointed rooms and wonderful access to Sarlat’s main square. The spa and swimming pool in the courtyard are lovely additions.
Chateau de la Treyne
Days 6 to 7 (2 nights), Lacave, FrancePerched above the Dordogne River and surrounded by stately gardens, this Relais & Chateau property is a picture-perfect step into the past. Guest rooms are elegantly furnished with all the modern amenities, and its restaurant serves exquisite cuisine. Go for a stroll on the lovely grounds, take a dip in the swimming pool, or just sit on the terrace and take in the absolute beauty of the area.
Days 8-9
Classic Laguiole / Pilgrimage Trail / Temple of French Cuisine
Crossing the wild moors of the Aubrac Plateau, we visit Laguiole—where renowned knives have been produced since the Middle Ages—and take a stroll across the herb-scented hills of the Aubrac. One evening, we stay at a chic boutique hotel and enjoy a very special dinner at Michel Bras' restaurant, known for its inventive world-class cuisine.
Classic Laguiole / Pilgrimage Trail / Temple of French Cuisine - Days 8-9
Le Relais de Laguiole
Day 8 (1 night), Laguiole, FranceThis 33-room hotel, set in the middle of town and close to cafes and shops, offers clean and comfortable guest rooms and a friendly and accommodating staff—nothing is too much trouble for them! The spa area includes an indoor swimming pool with hot tub and sauna.
Le Suquet Hotel
Day 9 (1 night), Laguiole, FranceSet on a hilltop outside of Laguiole, this unique hotel has beautiful guestrooms with private terraces and panoramic views across the Aubrac Plateau. The sleek, modern style of the hotel blends into the surrounding environment and the hotel’s cuisine lives up to its 3-star Michelin rating.
Days 10-12
The Untouristed Ardèche / World’s Oldest Cave Drawings / Pont-d’Arc
In the deeply rural Massif Central, we sample famous cheeses (perhaps St. Nectaire or bleu d’Auverne), then explore the Ardèche Gorge, formed by the turquoise waters of the Ardèche River. We’ll visit the incredible Paleolithic paintings at Caverne du Pont-d’Arc, and kayak (or walk) along the river. Depart via Avignon on Day 12.
The Untouristed Ardèche / World’s Oldest Cave Drawings / Pont-d’Arc - Days 10-12
Le Mas du Terme
Days 10 to 11 (2 nights), Barjac, FranceLe Mas du Terme is a modern hotel set just outside a charming village and surrounded by vineyards and fields of lavender. The pool area is lovely, and meals are served in a courtyard setting.
Prehistoric Caves and Great Cuisine of France
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Easy to moderate walks, 2-4 hours a day, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day’s walk)
