8-Day Bordeaux & Dordogne Small Group Travel Package
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore UNESCO-listed Bordeaux's historic sites
- Taste renowned wines from Bordeaux's left bank
- Discover the picturesque village of Saint Emilion
- Enjoy five exclusive winery visits and tastings
- Experience ancient cave paintings in the region
Full description
Immerse yourself in southwest France on an 8‑Day Bordeaux & Dordogne Small Group Travel Package, limited to just eight travelers for a relaxed, personal experience. Begin in UNESCO‑listed Bordeaux, where elegant 18th‑century streets, riverside quays, and vibrant wine bars set the scene for your stay. With your expert English‑speaking guide, you’ll explore both Left Bank and Right Bank vineyards, wander the medieval lanes of Saint‑Émilion, and enjoy carefully curated winery visits with generous tastings and clear explanations of each terroir.
Your journey then continues to the storybook landscapes of the Dordogne, based in the golden‑stone town of Sarlat. Here you’ll uncover dramatic clifftop villages, cruise the Dordogne River beneath hilltop castles, and step far back in time as you admire extraordinary prehistoric cave art at sites such as Lascaux IV. Throughout, comfortable hotels, included breakfasts, and seamless transport between regions keep logistics effortless, leaving you free to savor long lunches, local markets, and sunset views over vineyards and river valleys. This is a richly layered introduction to France’s wine country and countryside in one beautifully planned trip.
Intimate 8-Day Small Group Escape
Experience the essence of Bordeaux and Dordogne on an 8‑day small group journey limited to just eight travelers, creating a relaxed, personal atmosphere from start to finish. Stroll the UNESCO‑listed streets of Bordeaux, linger at lively riverside wine bars, and savor regional dishes that showcase the area’s signature flavors.
Bordeaux, Vineyards & Saint‑Émilion
Your English‑speaking guide leads you through the medieval lanes of Saint‑Émilion and into both Left Bank and Right Bank vineyards for five hand‑picked winery visits. At each estate, engaging tasting sessions help you compare styles, understand the terroir, and appreciate what makes Bordeaux wines so distinctive.
Dordogne, Sarlat & River Landscapes
The adventure continues in the golden‑stone town of Sarlat, your base for exploring one of France’s most atmospheric regions. Cruise the Dordogne River beneath imposing hilltop castles and wander dramatic clifftop villages that seem frozen in time.
Prehistory, Culture & Comfort
Step deep into the past as you admire extraordinary prehistoric cave paintings at sites like Lascaux IV, connecting directly with 20,000 years of human creativity. Throughout the trip, comfortable accommodations, smooth transport between regions, and included breakfasts let you focus on leisurely lunches, sunset views over vineyards, and quiet moments along tranquil river valleys.
Why This Journey Stands Out
By booking this curated package, you secure more than a holiday—you enjoy a rounded exploration of southwestern France’s heritage, landscapes, and gastronomy with plenty of time to slow down and soak it all in. With its blend of culture, history, and gourmet enjoyment, this 8‑day escape is perfectly suited to travelers who want depth, comfort, and memorable shared experiences.
Included / Excluded
- Arrival/departure transfer in Bordeaux
- 7-night accommodation in 3*, 4* or 5* , Breakfast from day 2 to 8
- All visits & entrance fees as per program
- The services of an expert English speaking driver/wine guide
- Travel in spacious, comfortable & fully equipped Mercedes Minivans
- Personal travel insurance, expenses.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off on the days of the tours.
- Meals and drinks (lunch, dinner).
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
Itinerary
Arrival in Bordeaux
Pick‑up at Bordeaux airport or train station and private transfer to your centrally located hotel, then easy check‑in and time to settle in before your first stroll in the city.
Meet at Bordeaux Tourism Office
Meet your guide and small group in front of the Bordeaux Tourism Office, then board your comfortable minivan for a scenic drive into the Saint‑Émilion vineyards.
Meeting point
Start Location
Bordeaux, France
Important information
Know before you book
- 8‑day small‑group package with a fixed itinerary (not a private tour).
- Group size limited to maximum 8 travelers, All guiding in English..
- Winery tastings, key entrance fees, and daily breakfasts included.
- All lunches and dinners at your own expense for dining flexibility.
- Expect moderate walking on cobblestones, slopes, château grounds, and at prehistoric sites.
Know before you go
- Two bases: first in central Bordeaux, then in Sarlat (one hotel change).
- Packing light, with soft luggage, makes hotel moves easier.
- Some activities (river cruise, specific caves) may be adjusted or swapped due to weather
- Wear smart‑casual clothing and good walking shoes.
- Most evenings are free, giving time for your own restaurants, shopping
Cancellation policy
Ophorus requires a deposit of 30% on booking confirmation with balance to be made at least 30 days prior to arrival (in case of last minute registration payment is expected immediately). We accept payment by credit cards (Visa, Master card, American Express) or bank transfer (Wire transfer fees at the charge of the Guest). There is no charge or service fee for processing credit card payments except with American Express +3%. For any cancellation, the following fees will be deducted from the refund : 60+ days > 20€ fee per person 59 to 30 days prior to arrival - 30% of the overall price (deposit) 29 to 15 days prior to arrival - 75% of the overall price 14 days or less prior to arrival - no refund
Reviews
Great experience, guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. Victor brought us around the different sites and showed us so many cool sites
Alex was the most experienced, knowledgeable, and chilled tour guide of all the 5 tour guides we experienced. We learned a lot from him about the culture, history, and geology of the region. He also provided great context to understand the regions' wines. This tour to Cassis and the calanques was beautiful and would get a 5 stars if it weren't for the fact that this expensive tour did not include lunch. The wine tasting was good but I had better in Bordeaux and it included lunch.
Matt was an awesome tour guide. His passion for D-day made the experience that much better. He was very knowledgeable. Even my children were glued to his every word. Great experience!
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Additional information
This Small Group Multi-Day package is ideal for curious wine and culture lovers who want a deep yet easygoing introduction to southwest France without worrying about driving, navigating, or booking tastings on their own. It suits solo travelers, couples, and small groups of friends who enjoy small‑group camaraderie, expert local insight, and a balance of structured visits and personal downtime. If you’re drawn to great wine, medieval villages, river scenery, and prehistoric caves—and like the idea of one well‑planned trip that ties them all together—this 8‑day Bordeaux & Dordogne package is a strong match for you.
In regards to the protection of the environment, we will no longer provide plastic bottles of water during our tours. You are kindly advised to bring your own. Water and refills are available at the wineries, museums and attractions visited.
Concerning wine tours: In France, snacks are usually not provided during wine tastings to preserve the purity of the wine's flavor. We recommend having a good breakfast or lunch beforehand.