A Taste of Europe: Bordeaux to Fowey

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Welcome to Bordeaux, a city steeped in history and charm. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French culture as you explore its iconic landmarks, vibrant streets and indulge in local delicacies.

This afternoon you’ll board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II. Be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew before meeting your butler and settling into your spacious suite.

Scenic Eclipse II will remain docked in Bordeaux overnight, so you may choose to go ashore to savour a glass of red wine in a cosy bistro or take a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River.

Please book your flight to arrive into Bordeaux prior to 02:00 PM.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Soak in the timeless elegance of Bordeaux. Wander picturesque streets lined with majestic buildings, each narrating centuries of stories. Explore vibrant markets with fresh produce and local delicacies. Admire Place de la Bourse and Bordeaux Cathedral's breathtaking architecture. Be immersed in cultural richness at the CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art and the Grand Théâtre. Your visit to Bordeaux is only complete when you sample its world-famous wines at one of the many charming wine bars or prestigious châteaux.

This evening, you’ll sail towards the coast along the Garonne River, surrounded by lush vineyards that glow golden under the setting sun.

Although one might think that a name like “the beautiful island in the sea” might be a little too poetic, artists and painters have come to love the nature of this largest of the Brittany islands. “Les Aiguilles de Port Coton”, a famous painting by Claude Monet, depicts the wild southern coast and rocks exposed to wind and waves. The island has a ‘soft’ side too. Its northern shore has two ports and long sandy beaches. At the port of Le Palais is one of the historical gems of the island. Mentioned by Alexandre Dumas in his second book about the Three Musketeers, the Citadelle de Belle Ile had great strategic importance as access to the south of Brittany was controlled by Belle Ile and its smaller neighbours Houat and Hoed. The beautifully maintained fort is now a museum. There are other spectacular and unique fortifications along the island’s shore.

The aptly named Belle-Île-en-Mer (‘beautiful island in the sea’) is the largest island in the French region of Brittany. The small bays and beaches along the rocky coastline are generally accessible only on foot or by sea. The capital, Le Palais, has an imposing citadel and plenty of cafés, and the island has a strong artistic tradition. Famed 19th-century actress Sarah Bernhardt holidayed here, and Monet produced 39 paintings of the wild Côte Sauvage while living on the island.

Tonight, Scenic Eclipse II will sail the short distance to the mainland and the captivating walled town of Concarneau.

Wake this morning surrounded by the colourful fishing boats of Concarneau. Perhaps ask the butler to bring breakfast to your suite, so you can enjoy this picturesque vista from your private verandah. With a long tradition of fishing, it’s still the third-largest fishing port in France, yet is also recognised as a town of art and history. Here, cobbled streets wind their way around 14th-century ramparts, offering picturesque views of the bustling harbour and half-timbered houses. Visit Keriolet Castle, a 13th century chateau that was given an extravagant neo-gothic renovation by a Russian imperial princess. The pretty and protected bay is ideal for kayaking, or you can stroll along the beautiful beach and marina.

The largest of the Isles of Scilly, St Mary’s is the gateway to this beautiful archipelago. Only 50 kilometres off the southern coast of England, the 140 islands are covered in lush green pastures and white beaches. They have long been a popular holiday destination for the British, who enjoy the slower pace of life and idyllic surrounds. Wander around the winding paths of Hugh Town, the largest settlement on the island, with its cluster of charming shops, churches, galleries and cafes.

Nestled in the mouth of a wooded estuary, Fowey (pronounced Foy) is still very much a working china-clay port as well as a focal point for the sailing fraternity. Increasingly, it's also a favored home of the rich and famous. Good and varied dining and lodging options abound; these are most in demand during Regatta Week in mid- to late August and the annual Fowey Festival of Words and Music in mid-May. The Bodinnick and Polruan ferries take cars as well as foot passengers across the river for the coast road on to Looe.A few miles west of Fowey are a pair of very different gardens: the Eden Project, a futuristic display of plants from around the world, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a revitalized reminder of the Victorian age.

An ancient port city of Cornwall, Fowey is known for its quaint narrow streets, picturesque quays and bustling harbour. Savour one last sumptuous breakfast on board Scenic Eclipse II, reflect on the unforgettable moments of your journey, then bid farewell to your fellow guests and crew before disembarking. Explore Fowey’s cosy shops and welcoming pubs or follow one of the coastal walks for spectacular views before beginning your journey home.

Please note: You will be under own arrangements upon disembarkation in Fowey, and must make your own way to the airport or onward journey.

Please book your flight to depart out of Fowey after 12:00 PM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.