Exploring France’s Wine Region with AmaWaterways
(17 Reviews)
94% Recommended
Nichole Springer
Maple Grove, MN
Ultimate All-Inclusive Experience
Are you ready for all-Inclusive fun and relaxation in the sun? The best thing about an all-inclusive is that you can have just about everything paid for before your trip. When you work with me you can simply jump on your flight and arrive at an am...
Are you ready for all-Inclusive fun and relaxation in the sun? The best thing about an all-inclusive is that you can have just about everything paid for before your trip. When you work with me you can simply jump on your flight and arrive at an amazing resort, with all your preferred amenities and enjoy the warm ocean breeze on a beautiful beach.
You’ll be welcomed with a smile and cool drink as you check in. Relax in the warm sun and have your drinks served to you. With an all-inclusive resort you can find something to eat throughout the day, participate in multiple activities and entertainment that align with your interests. You will never find yourself without something to do. There is fun for families and adults of all ages.
A personal favorite of mine is Sandals Resorts. Sandals features the world's most comprehensive all-inclusive package. You can enjoy gorgeous white-sand beaches, 5-star Global Gourmet™ dining, breathtaking accommodations, unlimited premium liquors, exciting water sports, and so much more!
Let’s plan your next all-inclusive escape!
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A Taste of Bordeaux with AmaWaterways: Exploring France’s Famed Wine Region
There’s no better way to experience the world-renowned Bordeaux wine region than by sailing through its picturesque landscapes with AmaWaterways. My recent journey aboard the AmaDolce was a blend of history, culture, and, of course, incredible wine. Here's an overview of this French region we toured, known for producing some of the best red wines in the world.
Bordeaux to Libourne: A Journey Begins
Our adventure began in the bustling city of Bordeaux, as we sailed toward Libourne. Our first stop was the enchanting region of St. Emilion, famous for its rolling hills and timeless vineyards. The highlight of our day was touring a local vineyard where we tasted some fantastic wines. While I didn’t drink all the wine, each sip was a reminder of the passion and craftsmanship that goes into winemaking here.
St. Emilion itself was an unexpected treasure. The medieval town, with its steep cobbled streets, is home to a cathedral that dates back to the 1200s. The soft blonde stone architecture transported me back to a time when everything was constructed by hand. Beneath the cathedral lies an underground monument, believed to have origins as far back as the 900s. Although we couldn’t take pictures, the experience of wandering through its cavernous space was fabulous.
A Visit to Chateau Boutinet: Learning the Art of Winemaking
We visited a small and charming vineyard called Chateau Boutinet. Owned by a couple passionate about their craft, this vineyard gave us a glimpse into the delicate process of grape-growing and wine production. Walking through rows of vines ranging from 3 to 60 years old was a humbling experience, and learning about the care that goes into each bottle made me appreciate every glass even more.
Blaye and the UNESCO Heritage Citadel
Our next stop was Blaye, home to the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Citadel. Built in the 17th century, this walled city is filled with delightful restaurants and shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll. I opted for a morning bike tour, exploring the inside of the citadel itself. Imagine cycling through ancient stone streets, passing two historic hotels, restaurants, and quaint boutiques—all within the walls of a city so steeped in history it’s hard to comprehend its age.
Bourg: A Roman-Era City with Modern Flair
Bourg is a city perched on a cliff and dating back to Roman times. The village gates, five of which still stand, are stunning examples of Roman architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the town’s long and storied past. Bourg is also home to over 400 winemakers, and AmaWaterways treated us to a celebratory wine-tasting event to sample the local flavors. Between the historical sites and the luxurious wines, it was a day to remember.
Fort Médoc: A Family-Owned Chateau and a Chocolate Pairing
One of the most memorable stops was Fort Médoc, where we toured the beautiful Chateau Mauvesin Barton. This family-owned winery, operating since 1821, paired its delicious red wines with artisanal chocolate—a heavenly combination! Learning about the winemaking process, including how they use candlelight to check for sediments in the barrels, was fascinating. This intimate, historical chateau quickly became my favorite, and I’ll never forget the decadent pairing experience.
Cadillac and the Magic of Sweet Wines
In Cadillac we explored yet another picturesque vineyard. This region is famous for its sweet dessert wines made from green grapes, and we even saw a barrel made entirely of glass, holding wine that won’t be ready to drink for 400 years! The history didn’t stop there…we visited Roquetaillade Castle, a fortress still inhabited by two people today. The castle’s original décor is remarkably preserved, offering a rare peek into life centuries ago.
Bordeaux: A Beautiful Farewell
Our final day brought us back to Bordeaux, where we began this unforgettable journey. We spent our time walking around the vibrant city, visiting the wine museum for an interactive, educational experience, and capped off the night with a river cruise. As the city lit up, we soaked in the beauty of Bordeaux from the water and enjoyed a pint at a local Irish bar with new friends from the UK.
This trip was a dream come true for any wine lover or history buff. Sailing with AmaWaterways offered not only the luxury and comfort of the AmaDolce but also the chance to connect deeply with the rich heritage and flavors of Bordeaux. It’s a journey I’ll never forget, filled with incredible wines, breathtaking views, and lifelong memories with my mother.