Imagine gliding through the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions on a scenic river cruise, where sun-drenched vineyards stretch for miles, Chateaus dot the landscape, and every sip of wine tells a story of centuries-old tradition. When my husband and I experienced this river cruise, we were completely taken by surprise. These are not your typical tourist destinations. This makes it an even better destination in Europe. When you have free time in the city, I recommend you check out the Wine Museum!
Welcome to The Bordeaux Affair by Scenic River Cruise—a luxurious, all-inclusive river cruise that brings France’s famous wine region to life.
Bordeaux’s Wine Paradise
Your journey begins in Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage city known as the “Wine Capital of the World.” With its neoclassical architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning waterfront along the Garonne River, Bordeaux sets the stage for an unforgettable river cruise. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Bordeaux offers a rich blend of history, culture, and of course, wine-tasting experiences at every corner. I highly recommend the Ebike tour in Bordeaux.
On board Scenic’s luxurious river ships, you’ll be treated to a five-star experience, from the spacious suites to the attentive butler service. Scenic offers a truly all-inclusive experience with gourmet dining, premium beverages, excursions, and gratuities – all part of the package, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about extra costs. Nobody wants to be nickel and dimed. They include laundry! You are on vacation after all!
The Scenic River Cruise Routes in Bordeaux’s Wine Country
Once you set sail, the cruise takes you along three key rivers—the Garonne, Dordogne, and Gironde estuaries giving you access to the heart of France’s legendary wine country. Here’s a glance of what you can expect:
- Blaye: As you float down the Gironde River, you’ll arrive at Blaye, a quaint town with a historic past. The highlight here is the Citadel of Blaye, an impressive 17th-century fortress designed by the military engineer Vauban. Wander through its walls and rolling hills, enjoy the stunning river views, and explore the charming streets of this ancient town on a beautiful walking tour.
- Cadillac: This former bastide on the Garonne was founded in 1280 on the orders of Edward I of England to protect Bordeaux and serve as a fortified river port. As you may have noticed the name Cadillac is linked with GM auto, which is named after the founder of Detroit and governor of Louisiana, Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac. The sweet white wines are not as famous as the Sauternes but are delicious served chilled as a dessert wine.
- Saint-Émilion: A highlight of The Bordeaux Affair is the visit to Saint-Émilion, a stunning medieval village perched atop a hill, surrounded by vineyards that produce some of the world’s best Merlot-based wines. After taking a motorcoach, stroll through narrow, winding streets, visit the underground Monolithic Church, and enjoy a wine tasting at a local estate. Saint-Émilion is a visual delight with its picturesque landscapes and ancient architecture.This was like visiting a place you would see in a movie. Absolutely breathtaking.
- Bourg: Set on a rocky bluff, Bourg is one of the oldest towns in France, with its rich Roman history and beautifully preserved architecture. Here, you’ll enjoy scenic walks, learn about local traditions, and maybe even taste some regional specialties. The surrounding wine region, the Côtes de Bourg, is known for producing affordable yet delightful red wines, often a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. While on board, along the way you will enjoy regional wine pairing suggestions at lunch and dinner by the on board sommelier.
- Libourne: In Libourne, you’ll explore the local market, where vendors sell everything from fresh cheeses to handmade pastries. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the French countryside lifestyle, sampling locally made goods and visiting with friendly locals. The wines of this region are predominantly Merlot-based, with Libourne acting as a hub for the famous Pomerol and Fronsac regions.
Scenic River Cruise – Exclusive & Immersive
One of the hallmarks of a Scenic cruise is its unique Enrich Experiences, designed to provide deeper immersion into the local culture. On The Bordeaux Affair, you might find yourself enjoying an exclusive classical concert in a grand château, or meeting a local winemaker for a private tour of their vineyard, gaining insights into the art of winemaking that few others have access to. Meeting the winemaker just gives you that “extra something” that not everyone gets to experience. These moments elevate the cruise from a typical sightseeing trip to an unforgettable journey that connects you more deeply with the region and its history.
A Culinary Journey Through France
No French river cruise would be complete without exceptional cuisine, and Scenic ensures that every meal is a culinary experience in itself. From multi-course gourmet dinners to casual lunches, each dish is thoughtfully prepared using fresh, local ingredients. You will have several options each day.
You’ll also have the opportunity to dine onshore at local restaurants, indulging in regional specialties such as foie gras, canard à l’orange, and of course, the best seafood from the Atlantic coast. Every meal is a journey through the flavors of France. You know the French love their sauces and cheese!
Free Choice Excursions
Scenic Free Choice Excursions give you the flexibility to tailor each day to your own interests. Whether you want to visit a famous château for a wine tasting, take a cycling tour through the vineyards, or explore the historic towns and villages along the riverbanks, there’s something for everyone. The Scenic e-bikes available on board also offer a fun and leisurely way to explore the countryside. These tours fill up fast!
For those interested in more in-depth wine experiences, there are additional excursions focusing on vineyard tours, wine blending sessions, and pairing workshops where you can learn from local sommeliers. Always included.
Scenic Space-Ships
Scenic’s fleet of Space-Ships offer more than just a way to travel—they’re floating luxury hotels. Every suite features a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you to convert your balcony into an indoor/outdoor viewing platform at the touch of a button while enjoying your morning coffee. My personal favorite!
Enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards and towns as you sail, all from the comfort of your private suite.
The onboard amenities include a wellness area, complete with a gym, spa, and even a salt therapy lounge, so you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. When it’s time for entertainment, Scenic offers live performances, lectures, and casual social gatherings that reflect the local culture.
A Luxurious Scenic River Cruise and Wine Lover’s Dream
The Bordeaux Affair river cruise by Scenic is not just a trip; it’s a journey into the heart of French wine culture, history, and luxury. Whether you’re sipping a glass of Bordeaux on the deck of your ship or strolling through medieval streets, this cruise offers an unparalleled way to experience one of the world’s most beloved wine regions. With Scenic’s impeccable service, curated experiences, and all-inclusive luxury, this is a river cruise that will leave you with memories as rich and lasting as the wines you’ll taste along the way.
Are you ready to embark on a journey through France’s wine country in ultimate style? The Bordeaux Affair is calling. Cheers to an unforgettable adventure!
