A French affair of the most enticing kind! Spend time in Paris and familiarize yourself with this regal city - either on an independent basis or in the compnay of a local and knoweldgeable guide and/or driver taking in some private tours. Then join a small group (max. 16), fully guided multi-day circuit as you travel throughout Normandy and the Loire Valley before bring returned to Paris. During your trip you will visit such places as Monet's Giverny gardens, Rouen city with its interesting architecture and narrow streets, the picturesque harbour of Honfleur - one of the best-preserved old ports of Normandy, bucolic Norman couuntryside, Bayeux with its renowned tapestry dipicting the Norman conquest of England in 1066 and of course the Normandy beaches synonymous with events that took place here during World War II. From Normandy, spend time in the fairytale region of the Loire valley, known as the "Garden of France". Visit picturesque and historical towns, majestic castles and sip some local wine.

Small group tours typically depart once or twice a month on Tuesdays from April 10 - September 25,2012 and are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants. In general, the maximum group size is 16.

Consider adding additional days to your trip with the services of a private guide and/or driver to see more of the country - your time on either side of your small group tour can be customized to suit your needs (and private guided tours can be added throughout your small group experience as desired).

Paris is confident that it's the world's most beautiful, fashionable and artistic capital. After visiting the city you will no doubt find it hard to disagree. Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with over 30 million foreign visitors per year. Three of the most famous Parisian landmarks are the twelfth century cathedral Notre Dame de Paris on the Île de la Cité, the nineteenth century Eiffel Tower, and the Napoleonic Arc de Triomphe. The city's most prized museum is the Louvre, though there are dozens of other important ones.

Enjoy a private airport transfer in Paris in a private vehicle with a professional driver.

You will receive a welcome package with your vouchers, and itinerary, city map(s) and train tickets (where relevant) upon your hotel arrival.

Steeped in history and packed full of world famous landmarks, seeing the city by open air double-decker bus and on a cruise down the Seine river are by far the best ways to see the capital. With this ticket, enjoy great views from the open top deck hop on and off bus, and see Paris in your own time, at your own pace. The ticket offers you the flexibility of L' Open Tour, valid on 4 different routes. The Paris Grand Tour takes you to the all the main sights, while the other 3 routes concentrate on particular areas (Montparnasse/St Germain tour, Montmartre/Grands Boulevards tour and Bastille/Bercy tour). (Includes transportation by coach, commentary by headphones on L' Open Tour buses, cruise is not included).

The Elysees Ceramic (3*) hotel is situated in one of the huge avenues branching out from the Arc de Triomphe. The Champs Elysees is a mere 5 minute stroll away, and all kinds of public transport is close-at-hand. It is an exceptional Parisian house, with a unique "art nouveau" facade, sculpted in painted ceramic blocks. The architecture is indeed impressive. It is large in size, and very tastefully decorated in an authentic Parisian style. Wooden panels on the walls, flowery draped curtains and quality furniture give a touch of elegance to a cosy atmosphere. This 3-star first-class property is in an excellent location, where guests can find comfort, with a touch of luxury, and good services.

Overnight at Elysees Ceramic (3*).

Discover Paris in a truly original and personalised manner aboard your very own 2CV. The 2CV, the quintessential symbol of the “French touch”, thanks to its convertible, soft top roof offers a magnificent panoramic view. You will be driven by a knowledgeable, English speaking chauffeur, and discover the most famous, beautiful and elegant monuments of Paris. The capacity of the 2CV vehicles is 3. If there are more in your group additional cars will be arranged so you can travel in convoy. (Includes hotel pick up and drop off in central Paris).

Enjoy the many wonders of Paris. Consider taking a stroll down one of the many quays by the river Seine, or wandering around any of the fascinating neighbourhoods such as Montematre, the Marais or the Left bank. Of course there are a plethora of museums and galleries to choose from if you are so inclined. Consider getting a 2 Day Paris Pass that includes a Paris Transport Travel card for 2 days (zone 1-3) to see all of the sites that are of personal interest to you. The Paris Pass is a smartcard offering free access to 65 attractions in Paris such as the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Orsay museum, Musee Rodin, commented cruise with Bateaux Parisiens and Pompidou museum. With this pass, you have access to 22 museums, 24 historical monuments, 15 art galleries, 3 tourist attractions, 1 cruise and special offers in shops and restaurants. Please contact your Advisor if you would like more details.

Paris takes on a different hue at night and, with many of the magnificent buildings aglow which make it is possibly the best time to admire the beauty of the city. There are plenty of options to choose from for evening entertainment including an early evening wine tasting in a beautiful, airy Parisian loft of a French sommelier located close to the lively Marais district, a dinner cruise, a cabaret show, dinner in the Eiffel tower followed by a night-time cruise, or an evening tour of the city with many of the historical buildings aglow.

Overnight at Elysees Ceramic (3*).

Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

Meet your small group and guide at the Hotel Elysees Ceramic and depart for your Normandy & the Loire Valley tour.

You will be transferred from Paris following the course of the Seine. The first major stop of the day is the pretty garden of Giverny, the home of Monet, the impressionist painter and passionate botanist. Wander though his house and garden as you admire the contrasts between his flower garden in front of the house and the Japanese-inspired water garden which influenced his work for over twenty years. Look out for the famous water lily pond and the Japanese bridge. A short distance away is Richard I’s (better known as Richard the Lionheart) dramatic Château Gaillard, perched high above Les Andelys. This is the place where legend meets reality; the evocative fortress was skilfully constructed in a single year by the then English Duke in 1196 as protection against an invasion of Normandy. From here you meander to the city of Rouen, a city that spends more on monuments than any other in France! Alas, while there will not be time to see every single one, you make sure to see the Place du Vieux-Marché - the centre of Rouen - surrounded by handsome old houses and the site where Jeanne d’Arc was burned to death in 1431. Tonight you stay in the picturesque harbour of Honfleur, one of the best-preserved old ports of Normandy. This romantic town has attracted so many of France’s artistic community over the years, not only painters but also musicians such as Eric Satie.

The hotel is located in Honfleur, 300 metres from Port Honfleur and has close access to Sainte Catherine Church. It offers a garden, with outdoor furniture and free Wi-Fi access.
Hotel La Diligence rooms has a refined settings with exposed beams and half-timbering work in the purest old Norman style. It offers a TV and a private bathroom and the rooms overlook a courtyard.
La Diligence Hotel offers a 24-hour front desk service and breakfast is served in a cosy breakfast room.

Overnight at Hotel La Diligence (B) or similar.

The day begins with a splendid scenic drive along the ‘Normandy Corniche’, offering spectacular views over the typical Normandy countryside, and there is an opportunity for you to delve into the local French lifestyle. This area of the northern French coastline is famed for its luxury resorts and attractive seafront towns. You will explore two historic resorts; the lovely Cabourg and Dives-sur-Mer. Cabourg epitomised ‘The Belle Epoque’ in the 19th century as it attracted the rich and famous seeking exquisite sandy beaches and an exciting atmosphere, Proust being a frequent visitor here. The nearby charming harbour of Dives-sur-Mer was where William the Conqueror built the first part of his fleet in his attempt to invade England. More glamour awaits as you arrive in the prestigious yachting harbour of Deauville, where you will take a relaxing walk along its beach boardwalk and visit its bustling harbour and market. Passing through Trouville you will return to the pretty impressionist’s harbour of Honfleur where you can sit back and relax in one of its many restaurants or cafes.

Overnight at Hotel La Diligence (B) or similar.

Depart for Bayeux and enjoy the coastal road of the Normandy Beaches. As you enter this region of France you cannot fail to appreciate the events that took place here during World War II, as you proceed travelling to Ouistreham, which played a significant part in the defence of the region during the war and which is, today, a lovely fishing village. Spend some time visiting some of the famous museums, sites and monuments in the area, including the Musée du Débarquement at Arromanches and the battery at Longues-sur-Mer, where the bunkers still contain the original cannons, untouched since 1944. Later you will travel to Colleville-sur-Mer to visit the famous American War Cemetery, overlooking Omaha Beach. The historic day concludes with a leisurely drive to Bayeux.

Overnight at Hotel d'Argouges (B) or similar.

Bayeux is a popular medieval town and today you can explore its hidden treasures at your leisure. As one guide book says, 'Bayeux’s perfectly preserved ensemble of medieval cathedral and world-famous tapestry of the battle of 1066, make it one of the high points of this part of Normandy'. In addition to the truly breathtaking tapestry and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, you might also enjoy poking around the atmospheric streets and squares of the old town. You can probably see yourself now, sitting in a sidewalk café, a glass of wine in hand, nibbling from a plate of local cheese with olives, just watching local life go by!

Overnight at Hotel d'Argouges (B) or similar.

Departing Bayeux you will be transferred westward across the Normandy countryside to Brittany. Although there is much to marvel at in the area, it is Mont St-Michel which is the highlight today. While no longer the ‘Mount in Peril’ from the sea, this 1000 year old religious complex still appears to rise from the surrounding waters. The journey continious to the fortified town of St Malo. This characterful French town is well worth the visit. Wander its citadel walls to gain an elevated view of the old town and surrounding coastline, then stroll through its ancient cobbled streets and enjoy its myriad of boutique shops and streetside cafes. From St Malo you will be transferred to Dinan, yet another attractive medieval town, where you have some time to explore. Then on the way to the lovely Brittany accommodation you can stop in local villages and towns, as time permits, to sample French cuisine and absorb the local culture.

Overnight at Le Germinal (B) or similar.

Today you travel to the verdant Loire Valley, renowned for its fairy-tale castles, historic villages and splendid food and wine. The first port of call is Angers, capital of the ancient province of Anjou, a pretty and friendly town with a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France and foremost among its many notable attractions are the magnificent Cathedral and the imposing castle with its moat and soaring towers. And this afternoon you will call in at a vineyard to sample the local wines as you make your way to delightful Chinon.

Overnight at Hotel Diderot (B) or similar.

The pretty and peaceful town of Chinon, home of the famed writer Rabelais, makes an excellent base for your explorations of the eastern Loire. The Loire Valley is justly famed for its incredibly rich châteaux, and today you will experience its most impressive. The first port of call is the Chateau de Villandry. Completed in 1536, it was the last of the large châteaux built in the Loire Valley during the Renaissance, and it is renowned for its magnificent gardens. Not far away is the château that reputedly inspired the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ story, Château d’Ussé, or the delightful Azay-le-Rideau, the first of a number of Renaissance-style chateaux to be built in the area, beautifully located on an island in the river Indre. You will have time to visit one of these before returning to Chinon where you will have plenty of opportunity to further explore this lovely town and taste the local delicacies.

Overnight at Hotel Diderot (B) or similar.

This morning, you will depart Chinon and take the road to Richelieu. Built by the great Cardinal, it was one of the first truly planned towns, and it makes an interesting contrast with some of the medieval towns and cities you have seen over the past few days. If time permits, you might make a detour to the Parc Natural Regional west of Chateauroux where, amongst the hundreds of lakes, various birds of prey and other interesting species can be spotted.  Then you have the choice of two wonderful chateaux to visit. The Château de Chenonceau offers arguably the very best in terms of architecture, location and quality. The richness of its interiors is hard to credit, and this perhaps partly explains why the peasants were so quick to revolt and so happy to keep Madame La Guillotine busy! The other option is the Chateau de Cheverny, a jewel amongst all the famous buildings along the Loire, though less well-known. A perfect example of a 17th century chateau, its white stone lightens with age, making it gleam in the acres of rolling parkland. Then on to our overnight stop, where you will enjoy a final dinner together with your group as the tour sadly draws to a close.

Overnight at Hotel Auberge du Center (B) or similar.

On the last day of your journey, a fitting climax to the tour is the celebrated cathedral of Chartres, incomparable anywhere in the world for its stained glass. There are 25,000 square feet of it, depicting over 5000 characters and dating from the 13th century. Old Chartres lies at the point where the river Eure cuts into the plain of Beauce; its picturesque streets evoke the bustling activity of a medieval street of merchants and craftsmen. It is delightful, and a great place to do some final shopping! You will return to your Paris hotel in the early evening. Whether you are heading home right away, or spending more time in the ‘city of light’, memories of La Belle France will stay with you.

Paris takes on a different hue at night and, with many of the magnificent buildings aglow which make it is possibly the best time to admire the beauty of the city. There are plenty of options to choose from for evening entertainment including an early evening wine tasting in a beautiful, airy Parisian loft of a French sommelier located close to the lively Marais district, a dinner cruise, a cabaret show, dinner in the Eiffel tower followed by a night-time cruise, or an evening tour of the city with many of the historical buildings aglow.

Overnight at Elysees Ceramic (3*).

Enjoy a private airport transfer in Paris in a private vehicle with a professional driver.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).