At a Glance
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Immerse yourself in the lingering tastes of the best aged exquisite wines of Bordeaux. Cycle through magnificent landscapes and cruise its awe-inspiring rivers aboard the luxury Amawaterways ship as you traverse the châteaux Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde on this impeccable 8-day cruising and biking adventure.
Your amazing journey begins in the world-famous wine-growing region of Bordeaux. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you ride past charming villages, private estates and farmland on your way to the Garonne River and board the AmaDolce, your moving home for the next 7 nights. Navigate through the beautiful streets of the World Heritage St-Émilion in the heart of Bordeaux. Relish the vistas as you pedal past the flourishing town of St-Andre-de-Cubzac and beautiful landscapes as you journey to the medieval town of Bourg. Ride past beautiful ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals including wine onboard
- 7 nights accommodation aboard a luxury vessel on a twin share basis
- Brief orientation in Bordeaux on Day 1
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio
- Biking, cruising and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- All luggage, airport, hotel transfers and shuttle transfers
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Custom titanium bikes
- Access to all ship amenities, activities and excursions
- Private cocktail/wine receptions
- Expert Trip Leaders, on ship and on shore
- Off-the-beaten path exploration
- Impeccable and personalised service from ship staff and leaders
- Exploring lesser known routes away from busy ports
- Dedicated support vans
- Easy-to-use route directions so you're free to explore independently
- Off-ship lunches in genuine settings
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: On this day, meet your tour leaders at 9.45 am inside the St-Jean train station in Bordeaux. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage, a daypack with your passport and anything else you might want for today’s journey. We start our adventure with a lunch and exquisite wine tasting at a beautiful estate in the Margaux region. The region’s maritime climate produces the best conditions for wine grapes, hence the production of some of the best wines in the world. Afterward, your tour leaders will fit your bike and you give you a brief talk on biking safety and techniques. Then hop on your bike and cycle past charming villages, private estates and farmland on your way to Garonne River. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: After our ship settles at the next port this morning, we will shuttle to St Émillion in the heart of the Bordeaux region. This World Heritage site offers remarkable Grand Cru wines, spectacular monuments and distinguished architecture. Browse its streets brimming with life and visit a wine shop or two. Be sure to sample the delicious macarons of Madame Blanchez, the sweet and chewy cookies that have been produced in St-Émilion since the 1600s. Afterward, hop on your bike and peddle along bucolic lanes into a breathtaking hilly landscape filled with vineyards, churches and farms. Ride along a plateau that boasts many of St-Émilion’s satellite appellations over the neighbouring countryside. After a delicious alfresco lunch, a local wine expert will enlighten us about the know-hows of wine making. Then shuttle to meet our vessel at Libourne or bike there through Pomerol. In the evening, we gather and enjoy dinner in the ship’s exquisite dining room. |
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: This morning, cycle to Libourne to experience the vineyard of Fronsac AOC. We will follow the Dordogne River through gentle hillside roads past the buzzing town of St-André-de-Cubzac and on through the village of St-Gervais with its appealing Romanesque church. Admire charming fishermen’s houses and troglodyte caves as you cycle into the medieval town of Bourg, our lunch spot for the day. After lunch, if you wish, you can continue to ride through a beautiful corniche road farther along the Dordogne to the town of Blaye, known for its dramatic citadels. |
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Back at the vessel, spend the evening as you please. Bask in the sunshine on the top sun deck pool, savour sundowners at any of foie onboard bars or drink with a view at the pop-up sky bar. Whisky away in the fireside libraries or cosy up with the chic onboard cinema. Tonight, enjoy an al-fresco styled dining affair with a refreshing outdoor space and vegetable-forward menu or a family-style dining affair at Jimmy’s. For a sophisticated experience, be wined and dined at The Chefs Table at the main dining room.
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: In the morning, we start our ride from Blaye, a historic town whose citadels have been listed as a World Heritage site as part of the Fortifications of Vauban, dating from the 17th century. Explore the beautiful surrounding farmlands, vineyards, castles and villages before returning to Blaye. After lunch on board, feel free to enjoy the views on the sun deck as we journey to our next destination. Or if you’re up for it, you can go for an afternoon ride to the hills housing the vineyards of the Côtes de Bourg AOC. Marvel at the beauty of Dordogne river as you ride by the stately châteaux and quaint villages before descending once more into Bourg. This evening, enjoy a local wine festival with live music and dancing coupled with a delicious meal aboard the ship. |
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with breathtaking views as we sail to the commune of Pauillac. A location that has earned praise from the esteemed wine writer, Hugh Johnson. Home to some of the region’s most famous wineries. In the afternoon, ride along the waterfront before reaching some of the world’s most distinguished and expensive vineyards, from Pichon Longueville and Pontet-Canet and Mouton Rothschild. Choose to follow a shorter loop, or make the climb up to St-Estéphe to relish the vistas at the baroque architecture and over the Garonne. We reunite at the ride along the famed Lafite Rothschild before heading back to the vessel. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your own leisure. |
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Sleep in and enjoy a lazy morning as we sail to Cadillac. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard before our arrival in port, and ride our bikes into the Sauternes region, where the noble rot, a beneficial form of the Botrytis cinerea, is prevalent and gives wine a notable sweet flavour and distinct gold colour which turns to deep amber as it ages. Take in the sights of the remarkable Château de Malle, Château Bastor-Lamontagne and Château d’Yquem before making your way over the bridge back to Cadillac. If you want even more distance, ride through the hills above Cadillac and past a medieval castle. In the evening, we gather to enjoy dinner together in the ship’s high-end dining room. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Today we cruise to a different side of southern France leaving the vineyards behind. After a delicious breakfast we shuttle to our starting point, just inland from the Atlantic Ocean. Pedal through a pinewood forest offering glimpses of the ocean through the trees. You also have the opportunity to see the magnificent Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in the whole of Europe. A residential bike path will take you through the outskirts of Arcachon Bay, a beautiful seaside community. As you ride along, see the striking vibrant color of the beaches, oyster beds lining the shores and elegant sailboats that dot the crystal blue waters. At the ferry terminal, alongside your bike, you will take a boat ride to Cal Ferret, famous for its oyster farms. Ride along the coast, sample delicious fresh shellfish along the way before stopping the ride in Lège-Cap Ferret. This afternoon, we will shuttle back to Bordeaux where you have enough time to explore the town, browse its shops to grab a last minute souvenir and visit some of its attractions. You can also choose to enjoy the many amenities on the luxury vessel before we reconvene for our final celebratory meal. |
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After enjoying a final delicious breakfast, leaving inspired, bid a fond farewell to your tour leaders, newfound friends as you disembark the ship for your onward journey. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
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Dates & Prices
The price guide is based on the lowest category cabin available on the departure. Please contact us for the available cabins and prices. Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Bordeaux, France
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Bordeaux. The nearest airport is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport serving international and domestic flights. Itis 26 km from the center of Bordeaux.
Enjoy the sweet life aboard AmaDolce. Your experience starts in your elegantly appointed stateroom, where Entertainment-On-Demand and soothing bath and body products bring you the ultimate in comfort before your cozy bed envelops you in sweet dreams. Warm caramel and honey-colored tones adorn the room while a French balcony—available in most staterooms—allows you to indulge in scenic views. Follow your nose to the Main Restaurant or clink glasses in the bar, where rich, chocolate-hued woods bring beauty to the backdrop of your every craving. The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant is the cherry on top of an already exquisite culinary experience on board that includes lunch and dinners paired with unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks. And should you wish to stay active, a Sun Deck walking track, fitness room and a fleet of onboard bicycles are ready and waiting to assist you on your wellness journey.
Built: 2009Built in: Netherlands
Length: 360 feet
Width: 38 feet
Crew: 45
Staterooms: 73
Passengers: 144
Registry: Switzerland
The Bordeaux River Valley typically enjoys a moderate climate with summertime temperatures that are usually quite comfortable. It has a sub-oceanic climate with some Mediterranean influences. Winters are quite mild and rainy, while summers are warm and quite sunny. On most days you'll be comfortable biking in a short-sleeved jersey or T-shirt. (When you head out in the morning you might want to wear a lightweight jacket or vest, arm warmers and knee/leg warmers.) Rain showers are always possible—don't forget to bring waterproof breathable rain gear with you.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
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Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
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Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Carbon Bike The Carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS has been put through its paces at both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France by the UCI World Tour team–EF Pro Cycling. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package—it’s built for hard-core riders, men and women alike, who are looking for a high-performance bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The Synapse is offered in a complete range of sizes. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Not equipped with a rear rack or bag, bring your own pedals, selection of saddle sizes available. |
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Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.