FRANCE IM075100085 CST #2083450-50 ŠEuroPanache 2011 Illustration and Design by Marina Preston, www.marinapreston.com For more information, contact your favorite travel agent or visit our website, www.europanache.com
EuroPanache Opens Doors to the Extraordinary EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE WORLD'S MOST SPECTACULAR AND EXOTIC DESTINATIONS. JOURNEY ALONE OR WITH A SMALL GROUP OF DISCERNING TRAVELLERS WHO SHARE YOUR INTERESTS. Our themes include gourmet cooking, wine tasting, antiquing, art, fashion, spa and wellness, literature, culture and history, fine dining, photography and wilderness/nature. For these, we have contracted with leading chefs, sommeliers, fashion consultants, antiques experts, art historians and photographers. Featured destinations include Europe, Africa, Central America and Australia. Please check our website or with your local travel agent for our latest offerings. EuroPanache guests travel in true luxury by helicopter, limousine, executive jet, first-class rail and deluxe minivans, dine in some of the world’s finest restaurants and stay in grand luxury at fabulous five-star boutique hotels, including châteaux, abbeys and manor houses.
From Our President and Founder Focusing on providing the highest service quality has been key to EuroPanache’s continued growth and success. In our fifth year, business has more than doubled and our company has expanded its offering to include exciting new luxury themes and destinations. In France we have added exciting packages to Brittany and Corsica to complement our existing offering in Alsace, the Alpine region, Basque country, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Dordogne and the Périgord, Haute Provence, the Côte d’Azur, the Loire Valley, Normandy and Paris. Both our Europe and America-based teams have expanded again this year. Let our global team of travel planners and guides show you what we can do!
Bob Preston, President
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Contents 4 6 7 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 25 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 41 42 43 44 46 48 50
France On-Site Services Testimonials Luxury Mini Breaks Alpine Alsace Wine & Nature Biarritz Black Heritage Bordeaux & Cognac Bordeaux Wine & City Bordeaux Wine & Spa Burgundy Wine & Heritage Culinary Champagne Côte d’Azur Dordogne Haute Provence Loire Wine & Châteaux Marie Antoinette Normandy Paris Fashion Paris Literary Break Paris and L’Art du Parfum Paris and French Antiques Versailles Brittany Northern Corsica Southern Corsica Booking Terms
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CHAMPAGNE
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NORMANDY
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PARIS
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VERSAILLES
BRITTANY
ALSACE
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LOIRE
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BURGUNDY
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ALPINE COGNAC
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BORDEAUX
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PROVENCE
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COTE D’AZUR
DORDOGNE—PERIGORD
BASQUE COUNTRY
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CORSICA
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France Onsite Services EuroPanache operates an inbound receptive agency, with offices in Paris and Provence, that provides VIP ground services, hotel, apartment and villa reservations, privately guided day tours, helicopter trips, itineraries for children and families, shore excursions and access to cultural and sporting events. Our VIP events team can provide privileged, unequaled access to government and private institutions, privately owned town residences and country châteaux of high-level individuals, private collectors and officials, internationally renowned champagne and wine estates, luxury institutions and exclusive private clubs. Innovation, quality, and taste are the hallmarks of our programs, which are designed for individuals, couples and small groups of up to 50 participants. Examples include: • Private visits and receptions with official hosts in renowned museums, embassies, government institutions, art galleries and luxury product institutions; • Visits and receptions in exclusive private residences and châteaux with their distinguished proprietors—collectors of the Arts—and renowned architects and artists; • Luncheons or dinners in exclusive, private clubs; such as the Cercle de l’Union Interalliée, the Jockey Club, the Travellers Club and the Polo Club de Paris; • Private fashion shows and cocktail receptions in world-renowned fashion houses; • Private tours, champagne and wine-tasting ceremonies and luncheons at prestigious estates with their hosts; • Gala evenings in world-renowned châteaux, museums and private mansions; • Hunting (small game, large game and chasse à courre) in private domains of French nobility. Our incentives department can organize events from one to seven days in casual or highly sophisticated venues. Examples are: • Cultural programs for up to 100 participants; • Receptions for up to 800 participants; • Corporate or institutional events for up to 1,500 participants.
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Helicopter Excursions We offer a number of outstanding private helicopter day trips for small private groups up to five passengers, including:
From Paris •Lunch at Chateau d’Esclimont and overflight of Chartres; •Lunch at Les Crayeres and Champagne Tour; •Lunch at the Abbey of Vaulx le Cernay; •Normandy — Honfleur, Trouville and Deauville; •Normandy beaches; •Versailles and Vaux le Vicomte; •Chateaux of the Loire Valley; •Vineyards of Burgundy; Helicopter Tours From Nice/Cannes •Gourmet escapades to Monaco, St Tropez, Camargue, Haute Provence, Corsica From Bordeaux •Atlantic Coast — La Rochelle and Ile de Re; •Biarritz and St Jean de Luz; •Vineyards of St Emilion, Medoc, Pessac Leognan.
Day Trips of Distinction and Shore Excursions From Paris •Impressionists — (GIverny and Auvers-sur-Oise) •Chateau de Chantilly •Giverny and La Roche Guyon •Paris highlights •Vaux le Vicomte, Barbizon and Fontainebleau •Versailles
Family Tours Adapted to Kids We all know how boring tours can be for restless children and adolescents, which is why we have created this offering. Our educational and fun tours include games, treasure hunts and labyrinths! Examples include: •Reliving Marie Antoinette’s happiest time in Versailles; •Painting in the footsteps of Monet (Giverny) or Van Gogh (Auvers sur Oise) with an artist; •Discovering masterpieces of the Louvre with intrigue and clues; •Underground Paris—including the sewers, catacombs, Roman and Gallic vestiges; •Helicopter tour of Paris followed by the Air & Space Museum where the Concorde, Caravelle and European rockets can be visited; •Enacting Perrault’s tales (Puss in Boots, Tom Thumb, Sleeping Beauty) in a real château; •A half-day in the kid’s park, zoo or aquarium; •Cooking classes, chocolate creation or perfume making adapted for children.
From Provence (including shore Excursions) •Western Riviera Tour •Eastern Riviera Tour •Wine and Truffles Tour •Villas & Corniches •Corniche d’Or, St Tropez and wine tasting •Panorama of the French Riviera •Provence Cooking and Nice City Tour •Antibes & St Paul de Vence •Monaco & Eze •Painters of the Riviera From Bordeaux •Bordeaux City Tour •Arcachon and the Silver Coast •Wine Tours of Medoc, Pessac Leognan, Saint Emilion & Dordogne or Sauternes-Barzac
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Press Quotations "A Black Book of enviable connections" — Virtuoso Life “Des exklusivsten Reisebüros der Welt” — Focus Deutschland "Things to Try before You Die" — Channel 9 (Australia) "Des voyages hors norme" — Madame Figaro (France) "Une Agence très spéciale" — Le Point (France)
Testimonials Congratulations — our VIP client, Expert and President of a US Wine Company — a HIGHLY discerning and informed client — liked the Alsace wine tour you arranged this summer. Dan Dixon, Rudi Steele Travel — Dallas Your connections in France are amazing and booking with EuroPanache makes me a hero to my clients. Thanks for a job well done! Sandee Litwin, President, Litwin Travel— Los Angeles What a wonderful fashion and culinary adventure! I still can’t believe all that EuroPanache was able to arrange during my short visit to Paris! Anita C. — Seattle I just want to pass on the positive feedback from our small group from Brisbane on their Paris trip in mid-April. In particular, they found the cooking school (in the home of a French chef) and the trip to Versailles fabulous. Jenny Gill, Harvey World Travel — Brisbane Every detail was carefully arranged providing a first class experience at every stop. The Paris VIP Haute Couture tour — behind the scenes at Chanel, Hermes and Baccarat — was a once in a lifetime experience. Sharmagne T — Houston EuroPananche provided an incredible vacation experience for me with excursions that provided an inciteful window into local culture of Dubai. I especially appreciated the VIP welcome at the airport. Glenn D. — New York The Great Wall private gala dinner in Beijing was an ending to remember on our round-the-world trip. The private visit of the Ming Tombs with champagne cocktail was a nice touch. EuroPanache are outstanding people! Keith V — Los Angeles Thank you EuroPanache for the top notch service provided for my clients' South of France Honeymoon. Your assistance in arranging VIP service at every turn made my job easier and my clients very happy. The Bentley rental, the private yacht charter to St Tropez and the creative idea of arranging massages to provide a changing area for their special dinner in Monte Carlo are a few of the things that helped create a unforgettable honeymoon. As a luxury travel specialist I would not hesitate to use your services again. Diane Hoffman, Owner, Hoffman Travel — Denver Thank you so much for the extraordinary trip you organized to Paris and Normandy for our VIP clients. They were so pleased — loved the VIP airport treatment, Raphael Suite, private yacht cruise, dinner at the Cercle Interalliee and wine tastings. Your guides are excellent. Jim Hughel, President, Town Place Travel — New Jersey This is the second year in a row that I have traveled with EuroPanache. It will remain a highlight of all of my international vacations. Laura R — San Diego Kudos to you all. Peter Carideo, President, CRC Travel — Chicago
For the latest feedback, please see the Press and Testimonials sections on our website www.europanache.com
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Luxury Mini Breaks These short breaks feature outstanding venues and themes. They can be grouped together or used to extend an existing business trip or leisure vacation. Alpine
Alsace Wine & Nature
Biarritz
Black Heritage
Bordeaux & Cognac
Bordeaux Wine & City
Bordeaux Wine & Spa
Burgundy Wine & Heritage
Culinary
Champagne
Côte d’Azur
Dordogne
Haute Provence
Loire Wine & Châteaux
Marie Antoinette
Normandy
Paris Fashion
Paris Literary Break
Paris & L’Art du Parfum
Paris & French Antiques
Versailles
Brittany
Northern Corsica
Southern Corsica
Alpine Break The Alpine region of Haute Savoie is one of the most scenic in France. Stay in or near the charming town of Annecy, with its glorious mountain scenery, pristine lake, flowerladen bridges, old town and canals. Enjoy a fabulous dinner at an acclaimed Michelin starrated restaurant. Nearby lies Europe’s tallest alpine peak — the majestic Mont Blanc. Visit the town of Chamonix and take some time for an alpine stroll and a lunch of hearty fondue. Wander the shores of Lake Leman or lake Bourget with their source spa towns of Evian and Aix-les-Bains, have lunch in the medieval village of Yvoire and enjoy a city tour and dinner in Geneva, famous for the Calvinist Reformation and its current standing as second seat of the United Nations.
INCLUDES • Private transfers from/to the Annecy TGV station or Geneva Cointrin Airport • Three nights in a four-star hotel in or near Annecy • Gastronomic dinner with wine at a Michelin star-rated restaurant • Two full days of touring in a luxury sedan as described (lunches and dinner out-of-pocket) • Breakfast every day and all taxes and service fees 8 Luxury Mini Breaks
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Day One. Transfer by private sedan from the Annecy TGV station or Geneva airport to your hotel. Take the afternoon to enjoy the lovely town of Annecy, its pure lake, old city and canals. Dine at one of the fine Michelin star-rated restaurants along the lake. Day Two. Your private driver-guide will meet you after breakfast for a full-day tour to Chamonix with the opportunity to take the Aiguille du Midi cable car up near the top of the Mont Blanc. Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring some of specialties of the Alpine region — Fondue, Raclette or Tartiflette. Take a stroll and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Day Three. After breakfast, your driver-guide will take on a full-day tour to Lake Leman or Lake Bourget via the scenic route des Grandes Alpes. Visit the charming spa towns of Evian or Aix-les-Bains and have lunch (fresh lake perch recommended) in the fascinating fortified town of Yvoire. After lunch, enjoy a tour of Geneva, with its Reformation Wall, Old Town, UN area and beautiful lakefront and flowered clock. Enjoy dinner at one of the fine lake view restaurants. Day Four. After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the Annecy TGV station or Geneva airport for your journey onward.
The Alpine region of Haute Savoie is one of the most scenic in France.
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Alsace Wine & Nature Alsace, which was formerly part of Germany and has a distinctive flair, is without any doubt one of the most dynamic and prettiest regions of France. It has become a symbol of the transnational European economy and has developed privileged partnerships with the bordering nations of Germany and Switzerland. Although modest in size, Alsace offers an incredible variety of landscapes and climates contributing to the diversity of the region. It provides countless possibilities thanks to its outstanding heritage, famous wines and gastronomy which attract gourmets from all over the world. Its main city, Strasbourg, acts as a link between countries at the heart of Europe, and houses many institutions of the European Union as well as an old town nestled around the cathedral. This luxury three-day tour will introduce you to spectacular wine roads dotted with vineyards, pretty villages and hamlets, many of which are reminiscent of tales from the Brothers Grimm.
INCLUDES • Transfers from and to the Strasbourg TGV station or airport • Two nights in a luxury city hotel (Regent) or château property (Château de l’Ile) with VIP welcome and amenities • Breakfast daily • Half-day walking and canal tour of old Strasbourg • Two days of private car and driver to discover the wine route and natural forest and mountain parks in the Vosges • Wine tastings at three estates 10 Luxury Mini Breaks
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Day One. STRASBOURG CITY TOUR Upon arrival at the Strasbourg airport or TGV station, embark with your personal chauffeur-guide to discover France’s most European city. Transfer to your luxurious hotel and enjoy lunch at your convenience. After lunch, start the visit of Strasbourg’s pedestrian historical center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. During your walking tour along the canals of this small city, be sure to stop at the traditional pastry shop, “the Paradise of Gingerbreads”, dating from 1643. End your visit with a wine tasting in one of the numerous wine bars that the city has to offer. That evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the two-Michelin star Crocodile restaurant or one of the many brasseries specializing in Alsatian choucroutes. Day Two. ALSATIAN VINEYARDS AND HERITAGE After breakfast, meet your driver-guide for a day-long tour along the route des vins that will take you to the heart of Alsace’s wine country. Admire the numerous flower-laden villages along the route with their quaint churches and town halls. The road runs through rolling country and affords views of many hilltop castles. Alsace boasts Europe's highest concentration of feudal properties — more than 400! From Obernai, a small medieval town, you’ll reach the Mont Sainte Odile, one of the most popular sights in Alsace, known for spectacular views and pink cliffs rising out of the forest. The route then meanders through very famous villages and small towns, including Kintzeim, Haut Keonigsbourg, Ribeauvillé, Séléstat,
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Riquewihr — all surrounded by vineyards — Kaysersberg, formerly an imperial city and Colmar, a charming town known for its Little Venice district. It is also the home town of the sculptor Frédéric August Bartholdi who made the Statue of Liberty in New York. The Unterlinden Museum in Colmar features the famous Isenheim Altar, a masterpiece in the field of religious art. During this tour, several wine tastings will be organized for you in renowned cellars and estates. Discover the various types of Alsatian wines, which are classified under three official designations: the Alsace AOC, the Alsace Grand Cru AOC, and the Crémant d’Alsace. Whereas other French regions call their wines by the name of their terroirs, Alsatian wines bear the name of the grape varieties used to produce them. Day Three. FOREST AND MOUNTAIN NATURE TOUR With your driver-guide, explore some of Alsace's natural treasures. Offering breathtaking views, the Grand Ballon d’Alsace is the highest point of the Vosges mountain range. Here, you can discover attractive forested slopes with fir and beech trees, lakes, natural pastures and round-topped mountains called ballons. Enjoy a hike or stroll in the national park if you feel so inclined. Sample typical dishes in one of the many charming farmhouse inns lining the Crest Road featuring rustic mountain food and famous Munster cheese. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide will take you to the Strasbourg TGV station or airport for your onward journey.
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Biarritz — Pays Basque Enjoy some of the most extraordinary beaches and high-mountain passes that Southern Europe has to offer. Nested in the Pyrenees Mountains and along the Atlantic Ocean, the Basque country — Euskadi — covers seven provinces in southwestern France and northeastern Spain. During your stay in one of the regions top palaces, visit world-class vineyards, cascading waterfalls, emerald valleys, high-mountain passes and the long stretches of fine sand beaches. Stop in enchanting villages rich in fine French architecture, taste internationally renowned Basque cuisine, visit the Guggenheim museum and archeological treasures, enjoy traditional Basque games like Pelote in quaint villages, see historical monuments and take part in the local festivities.
This region offers a varied, bucolic, and breathtaking palette that will certainly move you. The locals have their own language, cuisine and culture that remain distinct to this day.
INCLUDES • Transfers from/to Biarritz train station or airport • 3 and a half days of tour with private car and driver/guide • 3 nights at the award-winning Hotel du Palais in Biarritz • Breakfast and taxes
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Day One. BIARRITZ AND THE COAST Transfer from the Biarritz airport or train station to the Hotel du Palais, an imperial resort and spa Palace. It was Empress Eugenie’s favourite and has won many awards for its Guérlain spa, which spans over five floors. After lunch, your driver/guide will help you discover this trendy-chic town and the beauty of the Atlantic Coast. Stop at typical Basque villages such as Guethary and Saint Jean de Luz and discover the scenic road called the “Corniche Basque” that leads to the border of Spain. Day Two. BASQUE REGION BACK COUNTRY After breakfast, enjoy a short drive from the coast to reach hillside villages such as Sare and Ascain. Ainhoa is the best of all though and is voted one of France's Top 50 prettiest villages. A stroll down its ancient high street will tell you why. La Rhune — the mythical Pyrenean peak overlooks the Basque Country and something of a legend in these parts. Stop for a gourmet lunch in an authentic 17th century auberge. After lunch, visit the very richly decorated Villa Arnaga and its beautiful gardens. Pass through the vineyards of Irroulegy to reach the charming medieval village of Saint Jean-Pied de Port. Renowned for its market and fast and furious Pelote matches, played bare-handed, with what looks like band-aids being the only protection against injury. Day Three. GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM AT BILBAO AND THE RIOJA Head to Northern Spain for the day first to visit the Guggenheim Museum, designed by North American architect Frank O. Gehry. It is a magnificent example of the most groundbreaking architecture to have come out of the 20th century and its collections offer a comprehensive overview of the visual arts of the 20th century. Enjoy lunch at the Museum before heading on a tour of the most spectacular cellars of the Rioja. Stop for a tasting at Ysios, one of
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the more avant-garde wineries, commissioned by Spain’s greatest architect, Calatrava, to design the country’s first cutting-edge bodega. It sits across the hill from Marques de Riscal, whose owners decided to go one better and build the region’s first five-star hotel and spa and throw open their vaults to visitors for the first time in their 150-year history. Continue on to the picturesque towns of Laguardia and then Elciego, where a hotel by Frank Gehry — a jumble of red, gold and silver titanium — is hoisted on stilts. Day 4. BAYONNE TOUR OR FREE TIME TO ENJOY LOCAL SPORTS, THE BEACHES AND SPA Today, we’d suggest a more leisurely pace. You can enjoy the fabulous spa at the hotel, play a round of golf or swim and surf along the find sand beaches of Biarritz. Or, if you prefer: •Embark on a half-day tour of Bayonne — where you’ll enjoy culture, ramparts, museums — plus tastings of the local salty ham & chocolate! This vastly underrated city is the capital of the French Basque Country. It’s a great place for a day of culture and shopping! •Attend a Course Landaise, an ancient popular game of the Aquitaine Region, which has now become an official sport in France. All there is between Man and Beast in the race is skill, acrobatics, gymnastics and a rope. There are no weapons or red cloaks used on the animals and the cow does not die. •Attend a Pelote match. This game has been played since ancient times (Greeks, Romans, Aztecs...) in which players competed against one another. There are in fact 22 variants, depending on the bat (bare hand, the pala board, the chistera basket...), the type of ball, and the location of the game (open space, covered fronton...). There are 60,000 players in France alone! In the late afternoon, transfer to the Biarritz airport or train station for your onward journey.
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Black Heritage Break Paris is known as the City of Lights and is the perfect setting for romantic rendezvous, high fashion, and gourmet cooking. However, few people know that as early as the end of the 18th century, during the tumultuous period following the French Revolution up to today, many African-Americans came to France for more than fine cuisine and haute couture dresses. They came seeking the one thing denied to them in the United States: liberty, equality and brotherhood. While many famous Black Americans such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Toni Morrison, among others, visited Paris, some of them took up exile during the 20th century. Josephine Baker, Sidney Bechet, Richard Wright, James Baldwin, and Chester Himes, to name a few, have graced the city and the world with their talents and have left an indelible mark that attracts lovers and freedom-seekers alike. Over the course of our journey, we will talk to African-American writers and artists still living in Paris. We will dine and delight in enlightening discussions with people who knew some of these famous people in order to get an authentic taste of the African-American experience in Paris. Following that, we will visit charming cities and quaint villages in Provence where the likes of James Baldwin and Nina Simone lived and died, and Monaco, where Josephine Baker lived for many years during times of hardship thanks to her friend and admirer, Grace Kelly. After visiting the areas where these men and women lived and frequenting the cafes where they congregated, you will be changed forever. You will never forget your visit as France has not forgotten those who chose her as a home and safe haven.
INCLUDES • Two nights in a lovely château-hotel in central Paris (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation) • One night in a luxury Relais & Châteaux hotel in Provence (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation) • One night in a fabulous palace hotel in Nice (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation) • Breakfast (4 mornings)
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• Gourmet multi-course dinners with wine (2 nights) • Walking tours of Paris' rich black heritage with English-speaking guide (two half-days) • Chauffeur-guided tour of Nice, Provence back-country and Monaco with English-speaking guide (two days) • Monoclass flight from Paris to Nice • Limousine transfers to/from Paris airport, railway station or hotel
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Day One. In the afternoon, we will start the Paris walking tour in the areas where James Baldwin, Josephine Baker, Richard Wright, and Chester Himes once lived. We will also visit several cafes. In the evening, you will have a time to rest before going to dine in one of the famous restaurants favored by many Black Americans. Day Two. You will have the morning to rest up. In the afternoon, we will resume our walking tour by visiting areas where many jazz musicians, Josephine Baker, and others have visited. Hear about NAACP co-founder W.E.B. Dubois' early visit to the 1900 Paris Exhibition and later meetings with Black African leaders fighting colonial rule. Hear about the many former black American activists who sought refuge in Paris during the McCarthy era and inspiration during the civil rights struggles. In the evening, you will be free to discover Paris nightlife on your own.
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Day Three. We will travel to the south of France to visit the scenic back-country mountain villages of Provence, including where James Baldwin held residence until his death. That evening you'll enjoy a gastronomic meal in your fine château-hotel. Day Four. After a sumptuous breakfast, you will continue your tour of the back-country to Monaco, where Josephine Baker lived. The last evening will be in a fabulous palace hotel near the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice, where Nina Simone lived. Day Five. After breakfast, you'll make your way to the Nice airport for your flight home. Optional night(s) in Nice after the break can be arranged, or you may combine this with another Paris-region luxury break. We can also extend this by one day to include the Châteaux Milandes (Dordogne), where Josephine Baker lived with her “Rainbow Tribe.”
They came seeking the one thing denied to them in the United States:
liberty, equality and brotherhood. Luxury Mini Breaks
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Bordeaux Wine & Cognac This 3-day break offers two treasures of the South West region: wine and Cognac. Sojourn in a renaissance style castle conveniently situated between Cognac and Bordeaux that is totally devoted to relaxation and well-being. From there you can enjoy the charm of prestigious Saint Emilion or Medoc Bordeaux vineyards as well as the Cognac region, and the secrets of distillation of the finest “French brandy”.
INCLUDES • Three days vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide • Two night’s accommodation at the Chateau de Mirambeau in a Deluxe room or Junior suite • Buffet breakfast every day • Chateaux visits and tastings. • VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel
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Day One. BORDEAUX—CHATEAU DE MIRAMBEAU Upon arrival in Bordeaux (late morning), you will be greeted by your expert driver/guide for a 3 hour-tour of Bordeaux. From the vestiges of the Middle-Ages to the elegance of 18th century you’ll discover the different golden ages of Bordeaux's history, dominated by the wine trade and various colonial influences. Lunch at your convenience in the old town of the city. Next, you’ll head North to your fabulous Chateau-hotel where you can relax for the rest of the day. The chateau offers various activities on the spot: jogging and cycling tracks : a large park, two swimming pools, a spa center, 2 tennis courts, tasting sessions and cooking classes. Day Two. SAINT EMILION TOWN AND VINEYARDS Discover Saint-Emilion, an enchanting, medieval town that stands proudly at the top of a hill overlooking the Dordogne valley, and built in the shape of an amphitheatre. Saint Emilion is an incredible open-air museum. The most surprising remains are without doubt its underground monuments: galleries covering more than 150 acres and the breathtaking monolithic church, dug out of solid limestone. You will end your visit of the town with a wine tasting in one of its numerous cellars.
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After luncheon, the afternoon will be devoted to the discovery of Saint Emilion region’vineyards. During this wine tour, through the visit of Chateaux and tasting you’ll discover wines of exception and the art of tasting. Day Three. COGNAC REGION AND DISTILLERIES Your driver-guide will take you on a discovery of this superb region whose reputation belongs both to its rich architectural heritage and its famous brandy. In the historical towns of Cognac and Jarnac you’ll discover the cellars of such prestigious distillers as Hennessy, Otard, and Martell, Hine, or Courvoisier and “les Paradis”, the secret of Cognac collections. You’ll meet the producers of the Grande Champagne vineyards and the 1st growth of Cognac. The slopes of the “Champagne” (the word comes from the Latin for “chalk”) districts—Cognac, Segonzac—yield the highest quality brandy. The outlying “Bois” or wooded areas still bear the scars of huge swathes of forest felled in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, to provide firewood for Cognac's stills and timber for the shipyards at La Rochelle. Transfer in the late afternoon to the Bordeaux airport or the Angoulême TGV station.
In Cognac and Jarnac you’ll discover the cellars of prestigious distillers
and “les Paradis”, the secret of Cognac collections. Luxury Mini Breaks 17
Bordeaux Wine & City Bordeaux is famous for its architecture and prestigious wines. This luxury three-day break will take you into this magnificent city, its universe of luxury and the pleasure of strolling through its renowned vineyards. Discover the various golden ages of Bordeaux’s history, dominated by the wine trade and colonial influences. The city’s architecture met with nearly no stylistic changes for over two centuries. The urban project launched in 1996 by the Mayor Alain Juppé was made concrete by the cleaning of façades, the development of the quays along the Garonne River, the commissioning of the brand-new tram and the creation of pedestrian zones. Bordeaux is a now a UNESCO-listed architectural gem. It is also France’s capital of élégance. Vineyards span 120,000 hectares around Bordeaux — the world’s oldest winegrowing area. Your tour will take you through the most prominent wine districts located on the left and right banks of the Gironde estuary. From Saint Emilion and its medieval town to the Medoc area with Margaux and Saint-Estéphe appellations, and finally to the Sauternes’ fabulously sweet wines, you will understand why Bordeaux wines are so celebrated.
INCLUDES • Three days of touring in vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide • Two nights of accommodations at the luxurious Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux • Buffet breakfast every day • Admission to châteaux and other sites • VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel
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Day One. BORDEAUX CITY TOUR & SAINT EMILION. Upon arrival at the Bordeaux train station or Bordeaux Merignac airport late morning, you will be met by your expert driver-guide and transferred to the Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux located in the heart of the city. After lunch, your driver-guide will meet you for a one and half hour city tour followed by the visit of the medieval town of Saint Emilion and its underground monuments. End your visit with a wine tasting in one of the numerous cellars that the city offers. That evening, you may enjoy a gourmet dinner at the Hostellerie de Plaisance in Saint Emilion, which is rated with two Michelin stars (reservation required), or return to Bordeaux for a relaxing evening. Day Two. VISIT OF THE MEDOC CHÂTEAUX AND HILLSIDES Your driver-guide will meet you after breakfast for a trip to the Medoc wine region. The region, located between the Atlantic to the west and Europe’s widest estuary to the east, stretches over 80 km north of Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave. This exceptional region is home to Bordeaux’s most prestigious Great Classified and many Bourgeois vines. You will pass many famous châteaux such as Margaux, Latour, Mouton-Rothschild
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and Lafitte-Rothschild, which reflect the prosperity and prestige of Bordeaux. Enjoy a visit of the astounding MoutonRothschild museum and tastings of great Bordeaux wines, and a primer on the nomenclature of appellations and classifications. Savor lunch at a typical Medoc restaurant. After lunch, discover the Citadel of Blaye and the hillside region facing the Medoc, which you will reach by crossing the river on a ferry from the little harbour of Lamarque. Dine at your convenience in Bordeaux. Day Three. WINES OF THE GRAVES REGION After breakfast, your chauffeur will take to the Graves region, which includes the well-known Château Smith Haut Laffite. The day will be devoted to wines of the region characterised by their diversity and their prestige. The reds are both powerful and full bodied. The dry whites are elegant and delicate and the sweet white wines are luscious. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant la Table du Lavoir. You will stop at well known châteaux and enjoy an historical discovery as well as a fascinating tasting. At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you to the Bordeaux train station or Bordeaux Merignac Airport.
Enjoy a visit of the astounding Mouton-Rothschild museum and tastings of great
Bordeaux wines, and a primer on the nomenclature of appellations and classifications. Luxury Mini Breaks 19
Bordeaux Wine & Spa During this relaxing break where beauty, luxury and pleasure prevail, discover and enjoy the French art de vivre. Sojourn at the luxury hotel-spa Les Sources de Caudalie, the first vinothérapie spa based on grape cures. The hotel, which feels like a country home with wood paneling and pastoral views, is nestled in the vineyards of the Château Smith Haut Lafitte in the Graves region, 20 minutes from the center of Bordeaux. You will be pampered delightfully in an environment of rare beauty. From there, you’ll explore the region’s prestigious vineyards and wine estates. The vineyards span 120,000 hectares around Bordeaux and comprise the world’s oldest winegrowing area. Your tour will take you through the most prominent wine districts, from Saint Emilion and its medieval town to the Medoc area with Margaux, SaintEstèphe and Sauternes wines. The city, a UNESCO-listed site, is exemplary thanks to the unity of its urban and architectural expression. You will discover the different golden ages of Bordeaux’s history, dominated by the wine trade and various colonial influences. The architecture met with nearly no stylistic changes for over two centuries.
INCLUDES • Three days of touring in luxury sedan or minivan with English-speaking driver-guide • Two nights of accommodations at the country spa and inn Les Sources de Caudalie • Buffet breakfast every day • Entry fees to châteaux, tastings, Mouton-Rothschild Museum and sites. • VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel
20 Luxury Mini Breaks
B O R D E A U X
W I N E
Day One. Your expert driver-guide will meet you upon your arrival in Bordeaux by the end of the morning. Your first visit will be the city of Bordeaux. From the vestiges of the Middle Ages to the elegance of 18th century, discover the different golden ages of Bordeaux's history, dominated by the wine trade and various colonial influences. Enjoy lunch at your convenience in the city. The old town abounds with little restaurants and bistros where you can enjoy local gastronomy such as Entrecote Bordelaise (Bordeaux-fashion steak), fish, shellfish and cheese, all served with a carefully chosen wine. After lunch, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and experience an unforgettable moment at the acclaimed wine-therapy spa. Dine at your convenience. Day Two. VISIT OF THE MEDOC CHATEAUX ROAD Morning departure in the company of your driver-guide to the Médoc region, which stretches over 80 km north of Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave. This exceptional region is home to Bordeaux’s most prestigious Crus Grand Classés and many Bourgeois Crus. You will pass by many famous châteaux such as Margaux, Latour, Mouton-Rothschild and Lafitte-Rothschild, which reflect the prosperity and prestige of Bordeaux wines.
&
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Visit the beautiful Mouton-Rothschild museum. Enjoy a tasting and introduction to Great Bordeaux wines appellations and classifications. Stop for lunch at a typical Medoc restaurant. Return in time to relax or enjoy a second spa treatment, before having dinner in the gastronomic restaurant. Day Three. SAINT EMILION & GRAVES REGION Your driver will take you 45 minutes northeast to Saint Emilion. This medieval town stands proudly at the top of a hill overlooking the Dordogne valley. Saint Emilion is an enchantment and an incredible open-air museum. The most surprising remains are without doubt its underground monuments: galleries covering more than 150 acres and the breathtaking, monolithic church dug out of solid limestone. You will end your visit with a wine tasting in one of the numerous cellars that the city offers. Enjoy lunch in one of the city’s great restaurants. The afternoon will be devoted to discovering the Graves region and some of the better known châteaux. Graves wines are characterized by their diversity and their prestige. The reds are both powerful and full bodied, the dry whites elegant and delicate and the sweet white wines opulent and luscious. At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you to the Bordeaux train station or airport for your onward journey.
This exceptional region is home to Bordeaux’s most prestigious
Crus Grand Classés and many Bourgeois Crus. Luxury Mini Breaks 21
Burgundy Wine & Heritage Wine is what Burgundy is known for, but there is much more to experience. This luxury three-day break will treat you to gastronomic delights and teach you how a single grape variety can offer infinite range of harmonious wines, which are among the most well-known and expensive in the world. Discover the region’s Grands Crus and visit family estates and carefully selected producers. The region also enjoys a rich and varied heritage to explore. While strolling on the wine routes lined with world famous estates, discover incomparable sites from Roman civilization, trace the footsteps of Cistercian monks and the Dukes of Burgundy. Relish the fine cuisine of the region, rooted in tradition yet full of subtle flavours: freshwater trout, carp or pikeperch, Bresse poultry, Charolais beef and escargots.
INCLUDES • Transfers from/to Dijon or Macon TGV station • Transportation in a luxurious sedan with an English-speaking driver-guide for three days • Two nights of accommodations at the Château de Gilly in a junior suite • Two wine tasting lunches and wine tastings at winegrowers carefully selected by your guide • Buffet breakfast every day
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B U R G U N D Y
W I N E
Day One. LEGENDARY CÔTES DE NUIT Your English-speaking driver-guide will meet you at the Dijon train station upon arrival. Transfer to the Chateau de Gilly in Vougeot (a half-hour drive), formerly the residence of Cistercian monks between the 13th and 17th centuries. Located in the heart of Burgundy’s vineyards between Dijon and Beaune, it stands in grandeur in the heart of Burgundy wine country. The château’s 14th-century Cistercian origins contrast with the ornamental style of the 17th century, creating a palatial, moated residence standing in formal gardens. The estate comprises several historic buildings, including the stone-vaulted cellar, now a fine restaurant. Guest rooms are decorative with detailed woodwork, fireplaces and French ceilings. The cuisine and wines (from a 15,000 bottle cellar) are a worthy tribute to Burgundy gastronomy. Enjoy an afternoon private tour of the Côtes de Nuit. Savour some of the best wines during stops in the vineyards and at wine estates. Discover and experience the prestigious vineyards of Vosne-Romanée, Vougeot, Chambolle-Musigny, Morey Saint Denis, Gevrey-Chambertin. Upon your return to the hotel, you may dine at your convenience.
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Day Two. PRESTIGIOUS CÔTES DE BEAUNE After breakfast, embark on full day in the Côtes de Beaune with your private driver-guide. Discover and experience the region of some of the most prestigious white wines in the world. Experience the vineyards of Corton-Charlemagne, Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet, Santenay. Taste some of the best crus during stops in the vineyards and at a wine estate. Savour a tasting lunch followed by a relaxing stroll through the ancient city of Beaune, which boasts a splendid architectural heritage and the unique Hotel-Dieu, a marvel of BurgundyFlemish art dating from 1443. Its medieval decor has survived intact and was used as a general hospital until 1971. Day Three. We offer three distinct customizable options for your third day. Choose between a full day in the Côte Chalonnaise and Maconnais regions; a full day in Beaujolais; or a Dijon City Tour.
Discover and experience the prestigious vineyards of Vosne-Romanée, Vougeot,
Chambolle-Musigny, Morey Saint Denis, Gevrey-Chambertin. Luxury Mini Breaks 23
Culinary Break This luxury break is for the aspiring or accomplished chef. Treat yourself to a cooking course or demonstration (in English or with a translator) at one of the world’s finest cooking schools or in the private home of a French chef. Depending on the dates you select, the half or full-day programs will vary from pastry cooking, food/wine pairing, chef secrets, cooking with wine and spirits, a Paris market tour (followed by a cooking demonstration and fabulous meal), French regional cuisines (Southwest, Provence, Alsace, Alpine, Lyon region, Normandy, Brittany, Reunion, French Caribbean, South Pacific…), and bread baking. Enjoy either a deluxe room or junior suite in one of the fabulous luxury boutique hotels in the center of Paris that we have selected. These are located in the city’s most coveted neighborhoods (Marais, Left Bank or Champs Elysées) and offer a degree of intimacy and charm that surpass all of the large palaces and cookie-cutter chain properties. There will also be time for museum visits, shopping, a makeover or pampering, Paris walks and fine dining. Optional night(s) in Paris after the break can be arranged, or you may combine this with another Paris-region luxury break.
FrancePanache can also arrange culinary breaks in other French cities, including Bordeaux, Lyon and Nice. Please contact us for more information. INCLUDES • Limousine transfers to/from one of the Paris airports or railway stations to your hotel • Two nights in a fabulous boutique hotel in the center of Paris • Breakfast (two mornings) • A full or half-day cooking course at a leading cooking school or in the private home of a French chef
24 Luxury Mini Breaks
Champagne Break For the lover of true, vintage Champagne, this luxury break is a veritable indulgence. EuroPanache will meet you at the airport, train station or your Paris hotel and whisk you to the heart of Champagne country in true luxury. You’ll sojourn two nights in a magnificent Relais & Châteaux property, surrounded by pastoral vineyards—a favorite stopover of Napoleon I and, more recently, the Queen Mother. Enjoy the best the region has to offer, including a drive through the scenic “Route Touristique du Champagne” or a cruise on the Marne River with a Champagne tasting (weather permitting) and visits to renowned champagne houses featuring the finest millésime rose and white vintages. Your private guide/driver can orient the tour as you wish —to enjoy pastoral settings, several of the UNESCO world heritage monuments in the area (including the magnificent cathedral in Reims) or tiny villages and abbeys where champagne greats like Dom Perignon and Dom Ruinart once worked and lived. Enjoy a gastronomic multi-course meal with reserve champagne and wines in a Michelin starrated property (one of the finest in France). Optional night(s) in Paris after the break can be arranged, or you may combine this with another Paris-region luxury break.
INCLUDES • Two nights in a Relais & Châteaux property (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation) • Breakfast (two mornings) • One gastronomic dinner with champagne and wine • Driving tour (private car) featuring some of the finest champagne houses and the natural beauty of the region • Transfers to/from Paris to the Champagne region (first class rail or private car) • Private transfers to/from your hotel to the railway stations
Luxury Mini Breaks 25
Côte d’Azur Enjoy the fabulous French Riviera coast from St Tropez to Monaco. The province of film-star legends and royalty, this region is renowned for its romantic villages, seaside villas, Mediterranean views, lush gardens, deep grottos and winding cornices. From the azure blue coast and its lovely beaches, the Croisette of Cannes and the chic town of St Tropez, you’ll revel in star-studded elegance and opulence. You’ll understand why this region has been the favorite of glitterati and old money alike since la Belle Époque. Take time to venture into the backcountry to visit mountain gorges and walk the cobbled streets in perched villages from the middle ages. See fields of lavender and experience essences of perfumes for yourself. Dabble in the healthy olive oil and herb-based cuisine of the region and sample the wines of the Var.
INCLUDES • Transfers to and from Nice airport or train station • Two days of private tours in a luxury sedan or minivan with driver-guide • Two nights in a historic hotel in St Paul de Vence or in a luxury resort between Nice and Monaco with breakfast and VIP welcome and amenities • One wine tasting and one gourmet lunch
26 Luxury Mini Breaks
C Ô T E
D ’ A Z U R
Day One. Your driver will pick you up at the Nice airport or train station and bring you to your hotel — either a luxury seaside resort between Nice and Monaco or historic property in the perched village of Saint Paul de Vence. Day Two. After breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you up to explore the Western Riviera. Enjoy a visit to St Paul de Vence, one of the prettiest perched villages above Nice, with a fine art museum and galleries galore. Stop in Grasse, which is famous for perfumes and where you'll be treated to a VIP tour of a renowned perfume museum. After that, proceed to Cannes to stroll down the famous seafront Croisette — where stars come from the world over during the Cannes Film Festival. Next, head to the Var region, where you will enjoy lunch at Chez Bruno, a restaurant famous for truffles, and then onto a wine tasting. The Phoenicians planted the region’s first vineyards 2,600 years ago and the rosés, whites and light reds are quite good. Finally, visit St Tropez, a charming seaside town where the jet set from the world over converges — it has shopping, beautiful people, beaches and a yacht harbor that is unrivalled.
I T I N E R A R Y Day Three. After breakfast, your driver will take you to explore the Eastern Riviera. Visit the city of Nice, with its beautiful flower market, English Promenade, charming Vieux Port and Matisse and Chagall Museums. On the way to Monaco, stop in St Jean de Cap Ferrat to visit the Ephrussi De Rothschild Mansion and Gardens – one of the prettiest on the coast, and the Villa Kerylos — a reconstituted fifth century BC Greek Villa with incredible mosaics, design, lighting and furnishings in the très chic village of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Have lunch in one of the seaside resort’s many restaurants. Once in Monaco, you’ll visit the Casino square, palace and cathedral where Grace Kelly was married. Finally, you’ll visit Eze; a scenic village perched high in the cliffs above Monaco. The medieval town with its meandering cobblestone streets offers many interesting boutiques. You can admire the amazing coastal views for the cactus garden at the top before heading to your hotel or the Nice airport or train station for your onward journey. Day Four (optional). Enjoy extra days in the region, where we can arrange cooking classes, art tours (Riviera painters), a hiking tour in the Gorges de Verdon — our French Grand Canyon, or just relax in your lovely hotel.
For a full experience of Provence, this package
should be combined with our Haute Provence Break. Luxury Mini Breaks 27
Dordogne—Périgord Situated at the heart of southwestern France, this land-locked region is home to spectacular sites and monuments, which provide endless opportunities to discover culture, the local way of life, pre-historic remains, charming villages, delightful scenery and famous medieval castles. You can visit medieval castles, prehistoric caves and beautiful villages, cruise down the Dordogne river, and taste wines, foie gras, confit de canard and other specialties from the Périgord. This region really is a feast for the senses! Stay at an authentic chateau dating from 1597 set in 450 acres of stunning countryside, in the heart of the wine districts of the Dordogne. Whether you prefer touring, playing a few rounds of golf, spa treatments, swimming, cycling, kayaking or just being pampered and eating the rich local fare to your heart’s delight, your stay will be made as enjoyable as possible.
INCLUDES • Return transfers from Bergerac airport or Libourne TGV station • Three and a half days of private touring in a sedan or minibus • Three nights in an authentic and renowned Chateau des Vigiers • Breakfast and Taxes
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D O R D O G N E — P É R I G O R D Day One. BERGERAC, THE PURPLE PERIGORD Upon arrival at Bergerac airport or Libourne TGV station late morning, you will be met by your driver /guide. Embark on a tour of the Purple Périgord, which takes its name from the vine leaves that turn purple in the autumn. Enjoy a city tour of Bergerac, a visit to one of the castles in the area, the Château of Monbazillac, and finally a wine tasting of a rich palette of red, rosé and white wines from the region. Evening free at your chateau-hotel. Day Two. DORDOGNE VALLEY Your driver-guide will meet you after breakfast to visit the Black Périgord, where several of the most beautiful villages in France are found. First stop is a visit to a magnificent village that has managed to retain all its medieval charm. Navigate up paved and steep little lanes and take timeworn stone stairways to be able to admire the unhindered views of the Dordogne. Visit several medieval castles from the 12th and 13th Centuries. These feature dungeons, spooky passages and period rooms from medieval times. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise down the Dordogne River in a traditional flat-bottomed boat past the Pendoïlles cliffs. Stop in the charming village of Dome on your return transfer to your Chateauxhotel, where you can enjoy the evening off. Day Three. LE PÉRIGORDPRÉHISTORIQUE/ PREHISTORICAL PERIGORD Today you’ll visit some of UNESCO World Heritage listed
I T I N E R A R Y
prehistoric sites and caves dating from the Palaeolithic era. The Grotto of Font-de-Gaume, has dozens of polychrome paintings by Stone Age men from 25,000 BC. The most stunning painting is a frieze of five bison discovered in 1966 during cleaning operations. The Proumeyssac Caves, also known as the Crystal Cathedral, are a dense and varied underground vault of stalactites and stalagmites and are the largest developed cave in the Périgord. Although the famous Lascaux Caves are closed to the public, a replica ‘cave' has been created at Montignac, 200 metres from the original cave, where two of the galleries have been reproduced: the Great Hall of the Bulls and the Painted Gallery. After lunch, visit the recently renovated National Prehistoric Museum to learn about the amazing discoveries that were made in this region. Day Four. SARLAT AND THE ERYGNAC GARDENS The last day will be a little less hectic with plenty of free time to explore Sarlat. From the 8th century – it is the jewel in the crown of the Périgord Noir – famous for medieval art, and has the highest number of listed buildings per square metre in Europe. Every Wednesday and Saturday there are markets on in Sarlat featuring specialties of the region. After lunch, visit of the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor. The gardens, among the most stunning in France were laid out in the 18th century and transformed in the 19th century into an English garden. Time permitting, stop at a truffle farm.
Luxury Mini Breaks
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Haute Provence On this break, you’ll discover the high plateaux of Provence, including the perched villages of Gordes and Roussillon in the Vaucluse and the Luberon with its legendary fields of lavender. Taste delectable lamb and seafood dishes and the rich Chateauneuf du Pape wines from the region. Visit enticing towns like Avignon with its famous bridge, ramparts and palace of popes. Discover Gallo-Roman vestiges in St Remy de Provence and Arles, famous also for Van Gogh. Enjoy the views of Camargue and the coast from the Baux de Provence, a historic fortress town considered to be one of the most beautiful in France. Bask yourself in culture Aix en Provence, the City of Art and Enlightenment, with its universities, historic townhouses, treelined streets, market squares and Roman baths. Visit Marseilles, the charming fishing port of Cassis and admire the views of the coastal cliffs and Mediterranean fjords called calanques that are so popular with rock-climbers and tourists alike.
INCLUDES • Roundtrip transfers to and from the airport or train station • Three nights in a luxurious hotel in Aix en Provence or Avignon with VIP welcome and amenities • Breakfast every day • One lunch at a Michelin star restaurant • Chateauneuf du Pape wine tasting • Three and a half days of private sedan and driver-guide to explore the region
30 Luxury Mini Breaks
H A U T E
P R O V E N C E
Day One. Your driver-guide will meet you at the Avignon/Aix en Provence train station or Marseilles airport and drive you to your charming hotel late in the morning. After you settle in and have lunch, you will enjoy a walking tour of Aix en Provence — including the old city, the Quartier Mazarin with its 17th century townhouses, the Sextius Baths and the charming tree-lined Cours Mirabeau. Relax for dinner at your hotel or one of the many fine restaurants nearby. Day Two. After breakfast, you’ll head on a gastronomic and culinary adventure. Visit small villages in haute Provence — Gordes and Roussillon. Enjoy lunch at la Bonne Etape, a fine Michelin-star restaurant famous for its lamb and fresh vegetables. After lunch, enjoy a stroll at the Mont Ventoux, before heading to a wine tasting at a Chateauneuf du Pape winery.
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Day Three. After breakfast, discover the historic town of Avignon — former seat of the Popes and famous for its bridge. Walk the streets and markets of Saint Remy and Baux de Provence and admire the views. Visit the city of Arles, famous for Van Gogh and its Roman vestiges. Day Four. Head south for a city tour of Marseilles where you’ll visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and the old port. Next head to the charming fishing port of Cassis for lunch and visit the calanques and the beautiful, white cliffs along the Mediterranean to La Ciotat. At the end of the day, your driver-guide will bring you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
For a full experience of Provence, this package
should be combined with our Cote d’Azur Break. Luxury Mini Breaks 31
Loire Wine & Châteaux
For the lover of food, wine, and fine scenery, this luxury break is a true treat. You will spend two nights in the lovely Loire Region, savor fine wines, and dine in châteaux worthy of true royalty. Influential Kings lived in the Loire Valley since the Middle Ages. Charles VII resided in Amboise, and his cousin, Louis XII, in Blois. Francis I lived at Blois and Amboise, hunted at Chambord and Chenonceau, and brought back many artists and artisans from his Italian campaigns who would transform France's medieval landscape into a vibrantly colored Renaissance tableau of sculpture and exquisite art. Savor three of the finest varieties of wines from the region — including a Saumur sparkling wine, a light and tasty red Chinon, and a hearty Bourgueil . Relish the fabulous food the region is known for — including wild game and mushrooms beyond comparison. You can even enjoy a helicopter ride or balloon trip over the chateaux and visit a medieval troglodyte home. Optional night(s) in Paris after the break can be arranged, or you may combine this with another French regional luxury break.
INCLUDES • Two nights in a lovely castle-hotel (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation) • Breakfast (two mornings) • Gourmet lunch with wine (two days) • Wine and château tours (two half days) with an English-speaking guide with visits to three wineries and two castles • A helicopter or hot-air balloon overflight of the region • First-class rail transfers to/from Paris to the Loire region • Limousine transfers to/from your hotel to the railway station
32 Luxury Mini Breaks
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W I N E
&
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Day One. Upon arrival late morning, at the Tours TGV station, you’ll have the opportunity to sample wines from the prolific Loire region. You may finalize your choices, based on personal taste, with your driver guide. A priori, we would recommend: •A passionate small producer of Bourgueil wine. •A stop in the town of Saumur where you’ll have time for lunch. Saumur is famous for its sparkling wines, and you would be treated to a tasting of the finest bubbles along with an explanation of the “méthode traditionelle.” Your stop can also feature a visit to troglodyte homes in caves dug out of rock. •A third wine visit to the Chinon wine growing area. Chinon wines are red, light, and tasty. Enjoy a multi-course gastronomic dinner at your fabulous château-hotel’s renowned restaurant.
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Day Two. After a balloon or helicopter trip in the morning (optional and weather-permitting), enjoy visits of several of the region’s most stunning châteaux with your driverguide. Our recommendations for a day visit would definitely include: • Chenonceau — The favorite châteaux of women — it owes its heritage to Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medecis. • Chambord — the largest of the hunting castles in the region whose grounds are larger than the city of Paris. • Amboise — perched atop a hill overlooking the river in the heart of a charming town, this castle has lovely renaissance rooms and is close to Leonardo da Vinci’s last home — le Clos Lucé. Enjoy dinner in Amboise or at your Château-hotel. Day Three. After a leisurely breakfast, our driver will take you to the TGV station or Tours airport for your onward journey.
Luxury Mini Breaks 33
Marie Antoinette Join EuroPanache, Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler, and one of the leading experts on Marie Antoinette for a very special and sensory two-day, behind-thescenes experience in Paris and Versailles. Marie Antoinette, one of history’s favorite villainesses, was, in fact, a highly creative and multifaceted woman from the Austrian Royal Family, handed off for marriage to France’s Louis XVI at the young age of 14. She had a tragic life; yet her influence lasts to this day. Our program combines 18th century history, perfume creation, period makeup and costumes, a fascinating workshop on how fans were used to communicate, music composed by Marie Antoinette and performed live, behind-the-scenes visits of her private chambers in Versailles, le Petit Trianon, and the Hamlet, a period dinner by a top chef, a workshop where you’ll recreate her favorite chocolate, and a visit to the Conciegerie prison, where she spent her last days prior to being guillotined at the young age of 37 for alleged crimes that were never substantiated. Discover how privileged yet tragic this woman was—how she defied both royalty and commoners alike with avant-garde thinking, her sensual side and continuing influence on fashion houses like Dior, Chanel and Mugler, her feminine and tomboy periods, genuine coquetterie and true generosity. You’ll leave with an appreciation of how naïve she was and a newfound respect for how misinterpreted she continues to be.
INCLUDES • Airport/train station transfers in a private car • One night in a historic deluxe hotel in central Paris with breakfast • One night in a luxury hotel in Versailles with breakfast • A Marie Antoinette perfume creation workshop (four hours)
34 Luxury Mini Breaks
• A Marie Antoinette chocolate creation workshop (two hours) • A workshop on period communication with fans (one hour) • Private, behind-the-scenes visits in Versailles • A champagne luncheon at Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler • Luncheon in Versailles • A makeup session • Transfers to/from Versailles • A period dinner in one of Versailles’ finest restaurants Note: This program is recommended for small groups of 4 to 12 people.
M A R I E
A N T O I N E T T E
Day One. You’ll begin at a workshop on Marie Antoinette at Mugler’s fabulous premises in central Paris overlooking the Opera Garnier. One of the world’s leading period experts will guide you through the basics of the times, her tragic life and her adoration of flowers, scents, chocolates, and makeup. Together, you’ll discover the essences of the queen's favorite perfume and witness for yourself the fabulous scent recreated in her name. A light champagne lunch will be served. Following this exhilarating workshop, you’ll head to Versailles for private visits of her chambers, a fun tutorial on how fans were used to communicate, personal hair and makeup sessions by a fashion stylist specialized in the period and a genuine period dinner by one of Versailles’ most celebrated chefs. That night, you’ll sojourn in the elegant Trianon Palace Hotel—Versailles’ finest. (L,D) Day Two. After a lavish breakfast, you’ll have a workshop recreating and tasting Marie Antoinette’s favorite chocolate—a surprising mixture of three vanillas and grey amber—followed by behind-thescenes visits of the Petit Trianon, the Hamlet and her favorite gardens. Lunch will be served at La Flotille, the lovely restaurant on the Grand Canal in the Parc de Versailles. After luncheon, you’ll head back to Paris for an exclusive visit of the Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette spent her final days prior to being executed. (B,L) All guests will receive a personally autographed version of Dr. Elisabeth de Feydeau’s award-winning book on the secret history of on Marie-Antoinette’s Perfumer.
I T I N E R A R Y
Marie Antoinette Expert Elisabeth de Feydeau Dr. Elisabeth de Feydeau (PhD Sorbonne) is one of the leading experts on 18th century Paris and Versailles and Marie Antoinette. She is known for having recreated Marie Antoinette’s perfume and favorite chocolate with a leading nose, Francis Kurkdjian. Just about all of the original Baccarat bottles of the perfume, Sillage de la Reine, were purchased a few years ago by the Sultan of Oman (but EuroPanache guests will get to sample). Their chocolate creation is now available only on special request. Elisabeth de Feydeau has also authored over eight books—including her most two recent, A Scented Palace: the secret history of Marie-Antoinette’s Perfumer, for which she won the Prix Guerlain in 2006, and her latest work, Diptyque. Prior to her association with Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler and EuroPanache, she worked for Chanel and Bourjois as head of cultural and heritage programs.
Luxury Mini Breaks 35
Normandy This tour of Normandy beaches is not only designed for the history buff. You’ll enjoy some of the extraordinarily scenic villages and beaches of this region on the West Coast of France, not to mention fabulous seafood and desserts. On the 25th of July 1944, the Allies launched Operation Cobra under the command of the American General Bradley. The main objective was to pierce the German defenses to the west of Saint-Lo and to start maneuvers aimed at encircling the enemy troops from the south. After the liberation of Avranches on the 31st of July, two sections of General Patton’s army continued towards Brittany and the Loire, whilst another set off in the direction of Le Mans and Alençon in pursuit of the enemy. The Avranches breakthrough was therefore instrumental in the rapid Allied push to liberate the country, leading to the crossing of the Seine on the 19th of August at Mantes. Centering on the Allied offensive, our expert guide will lead you from Saint Mère Eglise to the famous Omaha Beach, the scene of a terrible battle, to the capture of Carentan and Saint-Lo. The journey recalls the violence of the fighting, notably at “Bloody Omaha,” where at dawn on D-day the assault waves of the U.S. 1st Infantry Division came up against stout resistance from the German troops, and at Pointe du Hoc, the scene of the heroic exploit of Colonel Rudder's Rangers. The military cemeteries are impressive memorials that testify to the scale of loss of human life caused by the fighting here. Optional visits to Mont St Michel in the south and Trouville, Honfleur and Etretat in the north are also available for those interested. Tours focused on battles and memorials for Canadian and British/Commonwealth troops are also offered.
INCLUDES • Transfers to/from Normandy train stations (Trouville/Deauville or Caen) • One to three days of private tours with your expert historian driver/guide • Two to three nights in a lovely chateau hotel property conveniently located near the Allied beaches • VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel • Breakfast every day
36 Luxury Mini Breaks
N O R M A N D Y
Day One. Upon arrival at one of the region’s train stations (Caen or Trouville/Deauville), meet your expert driver/guide. You will be taken to a lovely chateau hotel that is close to the Allied landing beaches. Along the way to your hotel, you can visit charming coastal towns and beaches. That evening you may relax, unwind and enjoy a gourmet dinner at the chateau. Day Two. After breakfast, your driver/guide will meet you for a tour of the landing beaches and historic towns from D-day. Visit Bayeux, Arromanches, the German battery at Longues sur Mer, Port en Bessin, Omaha Beach, American cemetery at Colleville sur Mer, and Pointe du Hoc. Enjoy another evening at the lovely chateau property. Day Three and Four (Optional). After breakfast, enjoy Mont St Michel. About 90 minutes south of the landing beaches, this legendary monument is perched on the uppermost point of a solitary rock, rising out of an ever-changing environment of sand and sea. The unique site is thought to date back to 708, when Aubert, Bishop of Avranches had a sanctuary built on Mont-Tombe
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in honor of the Archangel. The mount soon became a major focus of pilgrimage. In the 10th century, the Benedictines settled in the abbey, while a village grew up below its walls. An impregnable stronghold during the Hundred Years’ War, Mont Saint-Michel is also an example of military architecture. Following the dissolution of the religious community during the revolution and until 1863, the abbey was used as a prison. Classified as a historic monument in 1874, it underwent major restoration work. Mont Saint-Michel and its bay are UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites. Explore the Northern Normandy Coast — about two hours north of the landing beaches lie some of the most spectacular cliffs and coastal villages on the French Atlantic coast. Favorites towns include Trouville—a Belle-Époque beach town that is far more authentic than its better known and glitzier neighbor, Deauville; Honfleur, the charming medieval town from where Samuel de Champlain set off to discover America in 1608 and Etretat, whose white cliffs are renowned the world over. The drive along the spectacular Côte Fleurie (flowering coast of Calvados) is a special treat.
You’ll enjoy some of the extraordinarily scenic villages and beaches of this region
on the West Coast of France, not to mention fabulous seafood and desserts. Luxury Mini Breaks 37
Paris Fashion You’ll enjoy the services of a personal fashion coach and have VIP access to world-renowned fashion houses and boutiques. If it’s a total makeover you want, just say the word. Our personalized fashion, beauty, and design program has been created for men and women who want the luxury service of a customized consultation. With our network of famous specialists and experts, what was once a dream can now become reality. This deluxe package will help you attain that unique Parisian chic while refining and updating your personal image and style. You will master the art of being timelessly elegant and superbly stylish. Exciting and optional extensions to this package, available on certain dates, include a fashion show/cruise, atelier/showroom visits and jewelry design workshops. For those of you in search of a legacy, we recommend that you combine this package with a fragrance creation experience. Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence—fashion, spa, and beauty treatments all wrapped into one exquisite package. EuroPanache can also arrange fashion breaks in Milan, Barcelona and New York. Please contact us for more information.
INCLUDES • • • • • • • •
Private transfers by chauffeur driven car to/from Paris airport Two nights in luxury boutique hotel in Paris Breakfast every day Welcome drink and VIP package Use of hotel spa • Hair and makeup “makeover” sessions Personal fashion consultant (two days) Chauffeur driven car to/from all fashion venues/events Massage and treatments in leading Paris spa
38 Luxury Mini Breaks
OPTIONAL EXTRAS • Extra night(s) in hotel • Fashion show or cruise • Jewelry design atelier Notes: Airfare to/from and all meals not included are extra. Travellers from North America should plan to depart from home the day prior to commencement of the tour.
P A R I S
F A S H I O N
Day One. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your fabulous Parisian château-hotel by chauffeur-driven car. You will have the afternoon and evening free to enjoy Paris. If you wish, we can arrange a city tour and dinner (extra) for you, or you may just relax in the lovely hotel or explore on your own. Day Two. The next morning, you will be picked up by private car and ushered to one of Paris’ most beautiful spas for a massage and relaxation program. In the afternoon, you will meet our fashion expert in your hotel. You will be brought to an ultra-select Paris hair salon where the art director will introduce you to his team of specialists who will create your new look. They will also disclose the secrets of successful hair care and styling, be it for your everyday needs or a very special occasion. The second session of the day will focus on skin care and, for women, make-up. After a personal skin care consultation, our star makeup artist will teach you the fundamentals on how to obtain a perfect complexion and on how to sculpt your face and make it luminous. The chauffeur-driven car will bring you back to your hotel that evening, where you will have time on your own to celebrate your new look. Our staff can help arrange an evening at the opera, a ballet, a fabulous dinner or a number of other Paris-bynight themes.
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Day Three. During this day, which is entirely dedicated to fashion and style, let yourself be guided by a private personal shopper to help you develop your best style and enhance your wardrobe. You will visit (by private chauffeur-driven car) a selection of boutiques and designer collections with a fabulous array of fashion, couture clothing, shoes, bags, accessories and jewelry. Thanks to our relationships with many exclusive Parisian establishments, doors will open and you will be offered special treatment. Advantages with our partners include a VIP welcome with champagne, free alterations, free delivery of purchases to your hotel and discounts on purchases. That evening, we will drive you to the airport or train station by private car or to your hotel if you wish to extend your stay. Day Four (Optional). If you choose to extend the break to a fourth day, we can tailor for you a personalized fragrance creation experience (page 41), private visits of renowned Place Vendome jewelers, private visits of ateliers and showrooms of Parisian couture houses, a fashion show or a fashion cruise on the Seine. OPTIONS: Check our website for a wide variety of options. This package can be combined with other Paris-based luxury breaks or extra nights in the world’s most beautiful city.
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Literary Paris has long been a major literary capital—almost as much for Anglo-American writers as the French. Notables such as Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, Edith Wharton, Paul Bowles, Ezra Pound, F. Scott Fitzgerald, James Baldwin and the Beat poets lived and wrote here. Depending on your literary interests, our expert guides can tailor a special tour through time with literary walks, readings and visits to special venues. Browse through Shakespeare and Company, where Henry Miller and Anaïs Nin hung out. Sip coffee, wine or pastis at the three haunts—Café de Flore, Brasserie Lipp and Les Deux Magots—favorites of the Black writers, Simon de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre. Dine in the restaurant where Benjamin Franklin actually mulled over and wrote drafts of the US Constitution. Drop into the hotel where Thomas Wolfe and Borges stayed and where Oscar Wilde died. Stroll through the Pere Lachaise cemetery, where Wilde, Molière, Proust, Balzac now rest. Marvel at the Pantheon, where Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Andre Malraux and Emile Zola are buried. See where Hemingway wrote The Sun Also Rises and where James Joyce published Ulysses, the studio where Gertrude Stein held literary court and the elegant apartment where Edith Wharton wrote Ethan Frome, the book that earned her place in the American Academy of Letters. Discover the “fleabag shrine”—named in honor of the beat poets—where Allen Ginsberg wrote the poem “Kaddish,” George Corso wrote his mushroom-cloud shaped poem “Bomb” and William Burroughs finished The Naked Lunch. It was also home to many other striving musicians and artists. Now a luxury hotel, at the time, many of the rooms had windows facing the interior stairwell, so there wasn’t much light and hot water was only available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The linens were changed only once a month! Interested in French writers? Our guides will take you to the homes of Victor Hugo on the Place des Vosges, the apartment of Honoré de Balzac in Passy, where he spent his waking hours editing The Human Comedy, and the Museum of Romantic Life, where you'll discover the home life and writing life of George Sand, among many others.
INCLUDES • Airport/train station transfers in a private car • One night in a historic deluxe hotel in the Paris Latin Quarter • A full day literary tour with expert guide in Paris • Breakfast and lunch Price does not include airfare to/from Europe. For travelers from North America, please note that you will probably have to start your travel to Europe one day prior to the start date of the tour.
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Perfume In the fabulous private ateliers of the leading French perfume house of Thierry Mugler, experts will help you understand your own “olfactory profile” and identify your favorite aromas and the worst offenders. Learn all about the emergence of perfumes through the ages, from the times of the Pharaohs, the Greeks, the Romans, the Middle Ages on to the Renaissance, 18th century and modern day. You’ll discover how different cultures and religions assimilate fragrances and where in the world rose is mainly used as a masculine fragrance. Understand the fragrance pyramid—top, middle and base notes and learn, by association, to identify them in fragrances used today. In some of the workshops, you can experiment to create your own fragrance based on a profile and get feedback from a perfume expert. In others, you’ll explore some of the least known aspects of perfumery including the two still-allowed forms of natural musk (hint: one comes from sperm whale secretions that float on the ocean’s surface and sell for astronomical amounts). You’ll hear about perfume’s use as a political, sociological and religious weapon, plays on emotion by the major perfumers and some of the darker sides of the profession. You can also sneak a peek at their gorgeous haute-couture showroom with original collections. You’ll also visit Paris’ most exclusive perfume boutique, where priceless concoctions from times past are still available in the most elegant of surroundings. Experience for yourself recreations of Marie Antoinette’s fragrance and the Eau de Cologne specially created for Napoleon—who purportedly went through 40 liters daily, the world’s oldest “modern” perfume made using organic chemistry (no longer available, but one from Guerlain, launched just a few years later, still is) and the oldest known fragrance—Kyphi—which was reborn in the year 2000 at a conference in Cairo based on recipes written on the walls of temples and pyramids in Upper Egypt. We suggest that you combine this with our Paris Fashion theme (pages 38-39) for a more complete fashion experience!
INCLUDES • Four-hour perfume workshop with a perfume expert from Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler • Champagne luncheon • A fragrance gift pack • Half-day guided tour with private driver of Paris’ most prestigious perfume houses • One night in a boutique luxury hotel (Belle Époque period) across from the Louvre and Tuileries gardens • Roundtrip private transfers from the Paris airport or train stations
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Paris & French Antiques For the antique lover, this luxury break offers a private English-speaking guide familiar with the antiques world to help orient you during your shopping trip to Paris. EuroPanache will meet you at the airport, train station or your Paris hotel at the start of the break. You’ll sojourn two nights in a strategically placed, magnificent and luxurious manor house in the city center in walking distance from some of the city’s most exclusive antique houses. Depending on the type of antiques (furniture, chandeliers, tapestries, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, etc.) and periods you are interested in, your guide will arrange a personal shopping tour and help translate and orient you. Options include the fashionable Louvre des Antiquaires, the very highend boutiques near rue du Faubourg Saint Honore and rue de Lille (some are invitation-only; we can get you in!), the special marchés in the Puces de Clignancourt (where rip-offs and fakes are plentiful, so caveat emptor) and the antique shops in Versailles. EuroPanache can also assist you in shipping and/or storage in Paris should your travels last longer. Optional night(s) in Paris after the break can be arranged, or you may combine this with another Paris-region luxury break.
INCLUDES • Transfers to/from Paris or one of the Paris airports / railway stations to your hotel in a private car with an English-speaking chauffeur • Two nights in a four-star exclusive manor house in the center of Paris • Breakfast (two mornings) • Private escorted shopping tour of the Paris antiques world (one day)
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Versailles Versailles is home to France’s most lavish palace and official residence of royalty from 1682 to 1790. Originally a hunting lodge built by Louis XIII in 1624, it was expanded by Louis XIV to use it as a secret refuge for his amorous trysts and where he built a fairy tale park. Later his architect, Jules Mansart, transformed it with the addition of the magnificent Hall of Mirrors and elaborate gardens. While in Versailles, enjoy a behindthe-scenes, private, spectacular, guided visit of the private apartments of King Louis XV, King Louis XVI, and Queen Marie-Antoinette demonstrating the refined and luxurious detail in décor symbolic of the extraordinary splendor of the Chateau. Follow this with a tour of the Petit Trianon, the Chapel, Marie Antoinette's Garden, the Temple of Love, the Theater and the Hamlet. You’ll stay at the Trianon Palace, a five-star spa property with an acclaimed Guerlain spa and Gordon Ramsey restaurant adjacent to the palace gardens. Versailles is the ideal place from which to explore France’s finest castle and points west of Paris, including Chartres Cathedral, Monet’s gardens in Giverny and the many chateaux and abbeys in the region.
INCLUDES •Transfers from/to Paris airports, train stations or hotel •2 nights at the Trianon Palace Hotel in Versailles •Use of spa facilities and pool •Breakfast and all taxes •A guided behind-the-scenes tour of Versailles castle with an expert guide •Optional private tours of Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, Chartres Cathedral and other points of interest in the region (extra)
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Brittany CLIFFS, CASTLES & CORSAIRES Brittany is often considered the most beautiful, romantic and charming region in all of France. Come explore the ancient legends and unique culture of the area with a three-day tour that is sure to amaze you. Marvel in the sites of Mont Saint Michel, absorb the Viking and Celtic heritage, and see breathtaking views of the untamed oceans that were once the fairways of sailors, pirates and explorers.
Tour the majestic castles as you go back to the time of knights and chivalry and delight in some of the world’s best seafood. You are sure to fall in love with the peace and tranquility of this ancient corner of France.
INCLUDES • All transfers to and from Saint Malo train station. • Three days of private tours in a luxury car (sedan or minivan) with driver • Three nights at the Grand Hotel Barrière Dinard in a sea view room • A visit to Malouinière Montmarin 44 Luxury Mini Breaks
B R I T T A N Y Day One. MONT SAINT MICHEL & ITS LEGENDARY BAY To begin your exploration of the area, you will be escorted to one of the most ethereal and unforgettable sites in the whole world, Mont Saint Michel. A legendary monument, perched on the uppermost point of a solitary rock, and rising out of an ever-changing environment of sand and sea, Mont Saint Michel is unmatched in its splendor and beauty. You will begin with a visit to the charming medieval town, passing through the Boulevard and the King’s Gate, and arriving in the Grand Rue, filled with museums, unique shops, and 15th century houses. From there you will visit the renowned abbey, a wonderful panorama of medieval architecture, and its magnificent viewpoints over the bay. That evening, tuck in early for a restful night at your hotel or enjoy a stroll along the Dinard seaside promenade. Day Two. THE CHARM OF SAINT MALO & DINARD. This day will be devoted to visiting the two famous coastal cities of Saint Malo and Dinard. Begin the morning at Saint Malo, a stunning sixth-century granite town and home to corsair Jacques Cartier and writer Chateaubriand. Spend the morning discovering its quaint streets, exceptional craft shops, and savory cafés and restaurants. Delight in a delicious crêpe, a local specialty, accompanied by a bowl of fresh and sparkling cider. Continue your afternoon in Dinard, once the top seaside resort of all of France’s aristocracy and still considered the
I T I N E R A R Y “Cannes of the North.” The magnificent villas that dot the coastline are scenes from a fairytale, and will be sure to amaze you. Enjoy the afternoon taking in the charm of the town while perusing some of Dinard’s renowned galleries and artist workshops featuring masterpieces from Picasso, Gauguin, Serusier and Foujita. Day Three. CAP FRÉHEL, FORT LA LATTE, & DINAN Your final day in Brittany will begin with a trip to Cap Fréhel, without a doubt one of the most beautiful areas in Brittany. A seabird reserve with an incredible historic lighthouse and fortified castle, its storybook sights are sure to amaze you. Just east of Cap Fréhel, standing 196 feet on a rock above the sea, is the imposing pink granite edifice of Fort la Latte. This impressive 13th century castle has stood as the backdrop of many films. Crossing the drawbridge and exploring the battlements, turrets and dungeons is a must. For lunch, we recommend a visit to the picturesque harbor of Cancale and its oyster beds. Savor the freshest seafood served at its beautiful sea view restaurants. To complete your afternoon, you will be escorted to Dinan, one of the best-preserved towns in Brittany. The monument is the town itself, and as you wander through its charming basilicas, impressive theatres, and historical castles, you will feel as though time has stood still in its narrow streets.
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Northern Corsica Capes & Cliffs Northern Corsica is the home to some of the most beautiful sites in France. Its charming villages perched atop wild cliffs, sparkling mountain lakes and breathtaking seaside resorts will open your eyes to a whole new world. Come enjoy the splendor of the region as you walk along the charming cobbled streets of the picturesque towns, stroll the marinas dotted with restaurants and marvel in the splendor of quaint ports. Soak in the culture and the history of this amazing island with visits to local museums. Cruise around marinas surrounded by rugged mountains, and stand in the impressive citadels. Explore majestic palaces, town squares filled with life, and gorgeous cathedrals. Sample local wine, relax along the crystal waters of the beaches, and let the magic and nature of the area come to life.
INCLUDES • Roundtrip transfers to/from Calvi airport • 1 night accommodation at the La Villa Hotel including breakfast and taxes • 2 nights accommodation at the Hotel de la Roya including breakfast and taxes • 4 day private tour (Calvi, Porto, Corte, Corsica Museum, Bastia, Governor’s Palace, Cape Corse, Saint Florent, L’Ile Rousse) with guide • Private transportation between cities by minivan
We recommend pairing this trip with our Southern Corsica adventure. 46 Luxury Mini Breaks
N O R T H E R N
C O R S I C A
Day One. THE COASTS OF CALVI AND PORTO Your first day will begin with a visit to the beautiful town of Calvi, a resort that boasts modern amenities while keeping the charm of traditional Corsican culture. As you cruise around the marina, the splendor of the rugged mountains and pines will amaze you. You will finish your morning with a closer look at the town as you discover the quaint cobblestone streets of the citadel and the remains of Christopher Columbus’ birthplace. That afternoon, you will be transported to Porto, a region so beautiful it has been named a World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the 16th century watchtower that is perched atop the red cliffs. It provides magnificent views of the town and beaches below. Finish your day with a relaxing evening at the La Villa Hotel. Day Two. CORTE TREASURES Your second day will reveal the treasures of Corte, nestled in the heart of Corsica. Begin your discovery of this ancient capital with a stroll along its unique architecture and charming houses, the lively Place Gaffori and the Fontaine des Quatre Canons. To top off your morning, you will take a tour through the citadel of the village, set atop a rocky ledge in the valley. From Corte, you will be escorted to Bastia, a port town set against beautiful rolling hills. As you walk the charming, 18th century streets that were once home to a young Victor Hugo, the past will come alive. Day Three. BASTIA AND CAPE CORSE Finish exploring Bastia with a visit to its chic area adorned with fine
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housing. There you will tour the grand Governor’s Palace, beautiful gardens and churches. In the afternoon, we will take you to some hidden treasures, beginning with Place Saint Nicholas. Be sure to stop by the Mattei shop to pick up some local specialties and get a feel for how town shopping was hundreds of years ago. Finish your day with a short trip to Cape Corse, dotted with small, picturesque fishing villages, an attractive coastline and beaches and mountain ridges. There you will enjoy a guided tour of its splendid viewpoints, beaches, and wine-producing hills, with enough time to stop and taste the delicious local wine along the way. Day Four. BEACHES, CATHEDRALS, AND ISLANDS Your final day will start with a trip to Saint-Florent, where you will immediately be swept away in the beauty of the beaches, low mountains, soft climate and impressive yachts. From there, you will proceed to the Cathedral of the Nebbio, a stark contrast to the renowned cathedrals of mainland France. That afternoon, you will pass the white sandy beaches of Saleccia, some of the finest in the Mediterranean, as you arrive in L’Ile Rousse. Its fine beaches and small rocky islands are as stunning as its attractive 18th and 19th century architecture. Enjoy your afternoon shopping in its sophisticated boutiques, roaming the covered market in the Place Paoli, and heading through the granite to the Ile de la Pietra for a sumptuous view from the lighthouse. When the sun sets, you’re sure to be awed by the town and its red granite cliffs in the background.
Sun & Sand of Southern Corsica Come and discover southern Corsica’s diverse landscapes, sparkling white cliffs, prehistoric sites and crystal clear waters as you explore several of the island’s most breathtaking towns and villages. Dip your toes into the fresh Mediterranean water, soak in the unique architecture and coastal views and let the culture of these charming towns take you back to their Greek and Roman heritage. Visit Napoleon’s birthplace, delight in some local delicacies and roam museum halls that house impressive Renaissance works. The history, views and culture of the region will reveal themselves as you discover the traditions, enthusiasm and pride of this magnificent island.
INCLUDES • Roundtrip transfers to/from Ajaccio airport • 1 nights accommodation at the Palazzu U Domu Hotel including breakfast and taxes • 2 nights accommodation at the La Casa del Mar hotel including breakfast and taxes • 4 day private tour (Cargese, Ajaccio, Fesch Museum, Propriano, Sartene, Bonifacio, Porto Vecchio, Aleria, Museum Jerome-Carcopino) with guide • Private transportation between cities by minivan We recommend pairing this trip with our Northern Corsica mini break.
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S O U T H E R N
C O R S I C A
Day One. GREEK AND ROMAN HERITAGE Begin your southern Corsica adventure in the ancient Roman city of Ajaccio, still filled with ruins and artifacts of its ancestors. The town is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. During your guided tour, you will pass by the house where he was born, which is now a museum, and explore the caves where he played. That afternoon, you will head to Cargese. Known as the “Greek village” due to its 17th century inhabitants, Cargese offers beautiful architecture and coastal views. Walk among its whitewashed houses, sink your toes into the fine sandy beaches and take a stroll among its stunning churches complete with trompe l’oeil paintings and breathtaking terrace views. That evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner and the festive atmosphere in Place Marechal Foch, a laid-back area perfect for soaking in the culture of Ajaccio, before resting up at the Palazzu U Domu Hotel. Day Two. PROPRIANO AND SARTENE Your second day will begin as you enjoy the Italian Renaissance paintings in the Fesch Museum in Ajaccio. Be sure not to miss the old town with its picturesque, Mediterranean style houses, unassuming cathedral, and Quartier des Etrangers. Spend the afternoon in Propriano, where you may enjoy the beach and swim in the Mediterranean Sea or explore the town as you take in its ancient Roman and Greek history of the area. Just a bit down the road from Propriano is Sartene, where you will end the day. The tall rock buildings will tower above you as you enter in this town that has a long history of piracy and gangsters. A peaceful and quiet place now, Sartene is home to the old
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Governor’s Palace, replete with guillotine, and the Sainte Marie church, topped off with its characteristic bell tower. Day Three. THE BEAUTY OF BONIFACIO Your third day will begin with a tour of the oldest town in Corsica, Bonifacio. Start with the Staircase of the King of Aragon, a staircase cut directly into the stone to access the town above. As you enter into the center of the town, you will be overcome by the beauty of the white limestone peninsula, the tall sturdy houses along the cobbled streets and the endless view from atop the cliffs. If you’d like, we can arrange a yachting or diving tour, two of the most popular activities in the region. That night, tuck into the Casa del Mar hotel for a first-class night of sleep. Day Four. SANDY BEACHES AND ROMAN RUINS You will conclude your southern Corsican journey in Porto Vecchio and Aleria. The former is now a very popular beach resort, and its coastline will give you an opportunity to relax under the golden sunlight. The town itself also merits investigation. You can spend your morning roaming around the Place de la Republique with its ancient buildings, taking a stroll along the marina, and enjoying a fresh seafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the harbor. From there, your private driver will accompany you to Aleria. The first stop is the renowned Roman ruins, with remnants of a Roman town, villa and necropolis. Next, you will tour the 15th century fort overlooking the harbor, which now serves as a historic monument. You can also explore archaeological works in the Museum Jerome-Carcopino, with its displays of busts, money, pottery and other artifacts.
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SAS EuroPanache — BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS (EURO) Please read the following booking policy carefully and keep a copy for your records. Booking Conditions A deposit of 25% of the cost of the tour is required for us to reserve a space for you. Final payment is due 60 days prior to departure. If we do not receive final payment by this date, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation. Payment in full is required at the time of booking for reservations made less than 60 days before departure. Payments can be made by major credit card (deposits only), check or bank wire. Any charge-backs will be assessed a ¤100 nonrefundable fee in addition to any bank fees charged. In the event that an invoice is not received on time, payment is still due and interest of 16% per annum will accrue on the unpaid amount for each day that you are late. Certain tours, notably those involving cruises, may have more stringent booking conditions; these are indicated on respective tour pages and will be provided at the time of booking.
Disabilities The traveler agrees to inform SAS EuroPanache of any disabilities or limitations prior to departure so we may advise you. Facilities in certain countries or regions may not be adapted.
Cancellation Policy All notifications of cancellations must be received by fax. We will assess the following penalties on the day that your cancellation is received. • All cancellations will be assessed a minimum administration fee amounting to 25% of the tour price. • Cancellations received within 31-60 days prior to departure will be assessed a cancellation fee of 50% of the total tour price. • Cancellations received less than 30 days prior to departure date will be assessed a cancellation fee of 100% of the total tour price.
Price Guarantee All tour prices are based on rates, including foreign exchange, known at time of printing and expected to be in effect at the time of departure. Prices are subject to increases without notice if such rates change. The current price will be confirmed at the time of reservation. Once SAS EuroPanache has received your deposit for any tour departing in the current calendar year, that price is guaranteed, and any sub- sequent cost increases are at our expense. Tour prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single room supplements are listed where applicable.
Cancelled Trips SAS EuroPanache reserves the right to cancel any trip at any time. If cancellation is made prior to departure of the tour, the only responsibility of SAS EuroPanache will be to refund to the passenger the amount we have received for an active tour reservation or booking. SAS EuroPanache is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by participants in preparing for the trip, such as nonrefundable airfare, visa fees, medical expenses etc. Accommodations & Itinerary Travelers are responsible to meet the group on first day of the tour at the hotel and no refund will be given for late arrivals or early departures. No refunds will be given for any activity on the tour in which you choose not to participate. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary as may be deemed necessary for carrying out the tour. The right is reserved to substitute hotels in similar categories. If weather or safety conditions do not permit safe air travel, we reserve the right to use ground transportation in their place. Changes Changes will be accommodated where possible, but cannot be guaranteed. There will be a fee of ¤50 for each schedule or change ordered by the client after the booking has been deposited.
Insurance Trip cancellation, medical and interruption travel insurance is highly recommended. SAS EuroPanache can arrange this for you at the time of reservation should you need it. Participation For the benefit of everyone on your vacation, SAS EuroPanache reserves the right to accept or reject any person as a tour participant and to remove from the tour any participant whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the other participants.
Visa and Passports For tours requiring visas, detailed visa information will be provided. You are responsible for obtaining all visas and entry documents. All passengers traveling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your trip. Customs or immigration officials can, at their own discretion, deny a passenger entry into their country. Though this is rare, SAS EuroPanache and/or its affiliates cannot be held responsible for denied entry under any circumstances. Extras Not Included Air transportation to/from the point of origin/termination of the tour, airport taxes and fees, porterage of more than one suitcase, passports, visas and vaccinations, laundry, telephone, hotel mini bar, alcohol and beverages and food unless stated otherwise, optional excursions, travel insurance, and all other items of a personal nature are not included in the tour price. Safety Please be aware that during your participation in tours operated by EuroPanache LLC, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control including
but not limited to, the hazards of traveling in underdeveloped areas, travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, helicopter or other means of transportation, the forces of nature, terrorism, nuclear radiation due to nuclear power plant accidents or acts of war (declared or undeclared), biological or chemical warfare, toxic spills, political unrest and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. SAS EuroPanache will not assume liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. Responsibilities EuroPanache, acts as an agent for services provided by other hoteliers and transport providers and cannot be held liable for any damage, loss (including personal injury, death, and property loss) or expense occasioned by any act or omission on their part. Baggage and personal effects are the passenger's own risk and it is the responsibility of the passenger to obtain insurance against loss or damage. SAS EuroPanache is not responsible for activities travelers choose to take part in during free time. EuroPanache reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions of information, prior to final payment being received by EuroPanache LLC. Jurisdiction These Terms and Conditions shall be governed and interpreted exclusively according to the laws of the Country of France. Any dispute between vacation planner, travel agency and/or the Provider directly or indirectly relating to the Terms and Conditions shall be first submitted to mediation before a person mutually agreed to by the parties. If mediation is not successful, the dispute must be resolved by binding arbitration under French law before a Judicial Arbiter Group. The prevailing party shall be entitled to an award of costs and reasonable attorney’s fees. Arbitration against the Provider must be commenced within six months following the date of tour completion. Neither the Provider nor any affiliate shall in any case be liable for other than compensatory damages. The traveler hereby waives any right to punitive damages. Acknowledgement The traveler hereby acknowledges having read and understood all the provisions of this agreement, and agrees that by accepting reservations and vouchers, he will be bound by the Terms and Conditions set forth hereabove.
Date Signature
SAS EuroPanache — 10 place Vendôme, 75001 Paris — LI 075 06 0035 — Assuré RCP GAN — Garantie APS
50 Booking Terms and Conditions
FRANCE by EuroPanacheŽ ŠEuroPanache 2011
For more information, contact your favorite travel agent or visit our website, www.europanache.com