Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
France – Paris – the Loire Valley – Burgundy
100% customisable for you
Lovebirds, listen up; it’s time to head to the station to catch the Eurostar to Paris, a seriously scenic journey which takes just over two hours.
When you arrive in the city, meet your private driver for a speedy transfer to your centrally located hotel, where you’ll check in for the next two nights.
This evening, immerse yourself in the epicurean Eden which is Paris by reaching out to your Concierge for a round-up of the city’s best restaurants – extra points if they offer shareable desserts.
Once popular for its nightlife and underground jazz clubs, the district of Saint Germain des Pres on the Left Bank of the Seine has transformed into a lively daytime destination. So today, you’ll set off on a romantic stroll through these storied streets, stopping for pastries, dipping into boutiques and weaving past the locals perched outside cafe corners.
Along the way, pass Cafe de Flore and the iconic Deux Magots brasserie, once the haunts of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Then, continue on to discover the hidden gems of the Latin Quarter, including the Sorbonne University, Sainte Genevieve Library and Luxembourg Gardens – a popular spot among Parisians.
To finish your flaneur with a flourish, cross the Seine to see the oldest monument in the city: the Arenes de Lutece, built during the Roman period. Pretty hard to follow that one, but entrance tickets to the Notre Dame Cathedral should keep you curious and captivated ‘til evening rolls around.
Collect your hire car this morning and set off on the two-hour drive south to Cheverny, deep in the Loire Valley. Along the way, watch as the landscape unfolds from dense urban scenery to sprawling flower-filled fields.
On arrival, check in for two nights in a historic hotel, nestled within the classic French countryside. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please, whether that means unwinding with a good book, stretching your legs on a scenic stroll or hopping back in the car to explore more of your surroundings.
The largest chateau in the Loire Valley – and one of the most recognisable in the world – Chambord is a beautiful example of French Renaissance architecture, tucked away in the centre of a 13,000-acre forest. Built between 1519 and 1559 during the reign of Francis I, it features impressive towers, ornate facades and regal rooftops adorned with sculpted chimneys.
Inside, you’ll find even more gorgeous grandeur – our favourite is the double-helix staircase believed to have been created by Leonardo da Vinci. Not too shabby if you ask us.
Spend the morning exploring this picturesque property and its well-groomed grounds with a guide before heading back to Cheverny this afternoon, where (inspired by the royalty of the past) you can indulge in some truly decadent downtime. Bring out the champagne and macarons.
Another day, another chateau. Head out this morning to discover the UNESCO-listed Chateau de Chenonceau, a jewel of the French Renaissance. Nicknamed the ‘Ladies Castle,’ its design was shaped by a long line of influential women, including former queen Catherine de Medici and noblewoman Diane de Poitiers.
To add some context to all your oohing and aahing, you’ll be accompanied by a guide on your tour of the site so you can truly appreciate the elegance and charm of this iconic property. Immerse yourselves in the majesty of the past by stepping into the sumptuous rooms, ogling the intricate tapestries and gazing out over the Cher River – it’s enough to sweep anyone off their feet.
Trade Renaissance romance for Gothic grandeur this morning on your three-and-a-half-hour drive to Beaune. Along the way, stop in Dijon (yes, that Dijon) for a leisurely lunch. Afterwards, return your hire car and meet your private driver for the remaining 40-minute stint to Beaune, your base for the next three nights.
Once you’ve checked in, drop your bags, freshen up and head out to explore. Dinner tonight simply must be accompanied by a glass of red – this is the capital of the Burgundy wine region, after all.
Fuel up on a hearty breakfast this morning before heading out to meet your private guide for a half-day tour of Beaune. Kick off at the iconic Hotel-Dieu Museum – also known as the Hospices de Beaune – where you can discover a wealth of history while admiring some gloriously colourful roofs. Then, stroll into the Medieval city centre, where hidden courtyards, ancient ramparts and lively squares filled with the hum of local life await.
Afterwards, quench your thirst with another glass (or bottle) of Burgundy while you bask in the charm of your storied surroundings.
When in Rome (well, Burgundy), it’s only natural to explore the vineyards. So today, set out on a private tour of three prestigious players: the Cote de Nuits, Cote de Beaune and Hautes-Cotes areas.
The day begins in the Cote de Nuits, exploring a stretch from Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin. Here, you’ll be introduced to Burgundy’s history, grape varieties, terroirs and the renowned ‘Climats’ (vineyard parcels) of the region. You’ll also learn about the vineyard cycle throughout the year and the secrets behind what makes the region’s wines so exceptional.
Then, the afternoon is dedicated to the Cote de Beaune and Hautes-Cotes, from Pommard to Puligny-Montrachet, where you’ll visit three family-owned wineries, each offering a tasting of at least six wines (both white and red). Once you’ve sipped your way through these valleys, soak up all that wine with a traditional lunch at either a local restaurant or a winemaker’s estate.
Sadly, your romantic retreat in central France comes to an end today. Bite into one last buttery pastry before catching the train back to Paris to hop on the Eurostar. You’ll arrive in London a little over two hours later, full of love, good food and plans to cross the channel once again...
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
