Southwest France, the Gironde estuary and Bordeaux vineyard finest wines [Part 1/2]

CroisiEurope was the first river company to set up in the Gironde estuary in 2012 with its flagship, the MS Princess d’Aquitaine. In 2013, we launched cruises along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers aboard a second ship, the MS Cyrano de Bergerac. Today, after five years of undisputed success, it’d be interesting to recall the incredible diversity of this beautiful region. In 5, 6, 7 or 8 days, CroisiEurope offers you the opportunity to learn more about the many facets of the Bordeaux vineyard; between sea, land, dunes and marshes. Gorgeous landscapes and delicate aromas mingle here against a backdrop of classified old stone houses.

Bordeaux, Pauillac, Blaye, Médoc, Saint-Emilion and Cadillac are the illustrious scenic names that mark out the wide range of programs we have conceived in southwestern France. They evoke the greatest French wine appellations, majestic castles surrounded by world-renowned vines, prestigious and welcoming cellars and lovely strolls full of ‘serendipity-esque’ promises...

***

Highlights of our five itineraries in the region of Bordeaux:

Bordeaux and the “Port de la Lune”, the starting point of all our cruises, is an urban and architectural ensemble shaped by 2000 years of history. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, this true pearl gives its name to an esteemed PDO vineyard, notorious all over the globe. Our ships, resolutely modern and comfortable, are moored along charmingly arranged embankments.

Bordeaux

The tour of Médoc’s grands crus goes around the vineyards and castles, accompanied – of course – by several delicious tastings of local wines and cheeses.

The visit of the Blaye citadel, an example of Vauban's defense system, is a remarkable stopoff before heading to the secrets of the protected fortress. Reached via a narrow and picturesque cornice road, its flowery gardens, fishermen's huts and troglodytic dwellings nestled in the heart of the cliffs will absolutely enthrall you.

Pichon-Longueville castle

You will also certainly marvel at Cadillac (not joking!), a small medieval town, and the impressive castle of Roquetaillade, ‘palace’ proudly erected in the Middle Ages by Pope Clement V.

Last but not least, lucky passengers who’ll opt for the 8-day cruise will get the chance to add the “beach getaway” to their excursions package, ready to discover the Arcachon Bay and challenge the amazing 110 meter high Dune of the Pilat which is the tallest in Europe.