Southwest France holds some of humanity's oldest secrets and finest pleasures side by side. Trace prehistoric masterpieces through the caves of the Dordogne, raise a glass in the celebrated cellars of Bordeaux, and lose yourself in the terracotta warmth of Toulouse — a region as rich in history as it is in culture.
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Sarah
Petra
CharlotteYour expedition begins in the elegant port city of Bordeaux, where 18th-century facades reflect off the Garonne River. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Later, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert for a welcome presentation that sets the stage for the history and heritage ahead. The evening air carries the scent of the nearby Atlantic as you join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, toasting the start of your French discovery.
Experience the soul of Bordeaux through its community and cuisine. Start with an orientation drive before stopping at Café Joyeux, a heart-warming community enterprise that provides training and employment for people with intellectual disabilities. Enjoy a short presentation of the project while sipping coffee and tasting local pastries. Continue your walk through the city with your expedition leader before sitting down for a traditional lunch in town. In the afternoon, the scene shifts to a renowned winery to explore historic cellars and taste emblematic red vintages before an intimate evening at leisure.
Travel toward the medieval charm of Saint-Émilion to explore its extraordinary monolithic church and silent catacombs. Enjoy a local lunch on the way to your next destination. As you travel, the landscape transforms into the rugged beauty of Les Eyzies, where you delve into the National Museum of Prehistory. Conclude the day in Sarlat-la-Canéda, settling into your hotel for a delicious dinner as the golden stone buildings of the village begin to glow at twilight
Today takes you deep underground into some of the region's most extraordinary prehistoric sites. Descend into the cool, silent depths of the Rouffignac Cave, navigating its vast galleries on an electric train to spot prehistoric engravings. The morning continues at the highly restricted Font de Gaume, a rare site where original polychrome paintings still adorn the cave walls. After lunch on your own, return to Sarlat for free time among the timber-framed houses. In the evening, attend a private presentation by your Expedition Expert on the cultural heritage of Lascaux, gaining unique insights before tomorrow's highlight visit. Finish the day with dinner at your hotel.
The day opens at a local food market, where the scent of truffles and regional cheeses fills the morning air. Next, embark on a guided visit to the International Centre for Cave Art at Lascaux IV. This architectural masterpiece features a flawless, full-scale replica of the famous prehistoric artwork, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the original cave. The afternoon leads to Castel-Merle for a rare experience: a prehistoric meal and a private tour led by the owner. Watch a live fire-making demonstration and walk the ancient rock shelters before an evening of free exploration.
Leave the Dordogne behind as the landscape opens up into a new chapter of prehistoric wonder. Start the day with a guided visit to the picturesque cliffside village of Rocamadour, where sanctuaries seem to cling precariously to the rock face. Next, share a family-style lunch at a local restaurant. Later, visit the Pech Merle cave to witness stunning prehistoric murals that have remained frozen in time for millennia. In the afternoon, arrive in Toulouse, known as 'The Pink City' for its warm, rosy terracotta architecture, as the setting sun casts a vibrant glow over the historic buildings.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Toulouse, wandering through hidden streets to admire unique architecture and historic landmarks. Head to the Victor Hugo Market to explore the stalls of a quintessentially French market, tasting popular local dishes on site. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure—perhaps strolling along the banks of the Canal du Midi or exploring the city’s aerospace heritage. Later, gather with your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the stories and connections made throughout the Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Your expedition through Southwest France concludes this morning. Savour a final breakfast as the light glints off the water before your included transfer to the airport where your expedition concludes. Reflect on a week defined by the echoes of prehistoric caves, the refined taste of Bordeaux wines, and the warm hospitality of the Dordogne valley.
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
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