The quickly-approaching end of August can mean only one thing: a bank holiday! And it’s the perfect excuse for a spur-of-the-moment getaway.
Treat yourself by turning that extra day’s holiday into a long weekend away #withwinerist. Go on, what better reason have you got for an impromptu holiday?
We’ve pulled together a few of our favourite hotels and tours in some of our favourite places to help you plan a short break now. And what’s even better is they’re all low-cost choices, so there’s no need to worry about breaking the bank.
Whether you prefer to drive or fly, we’ve got a range of options to help you make the most of this bank holiday.
Drive there…
LOIRE VALLEY – Culture, history and natural beauty await you in the Loire Valley. As one of France’s largest wine producing areas, the Loire Valley is home to some of the world’s most famous wines.
Le Fleuray Hotel & Restaurant – This boutique hotel is perfectly-located for exploring the nearby chateaux, wineries and vineyards, plus relax in the hotel’s spa, enjoy a massage and indulge in a delicious meal in the first-class restaurant.
Central Loire Valley Day Tour – Tour the heart of the Loire Valley during this full day tour. You’ll experience history, architecture and, most importantly, wines.
BURGUNDY – With a jigsaw puzzle of over 500 different possible terroirs that make up the Burgundy climate lovers of all things terroir will enjoy unearthing the secrets of this region.
Chateau de Courban & Spa – This 4-star hotel offers all the comforts of home, whilst also providing a luxurious experience of food, wine, and relaxation. Treat yourself to a fantastic stay in one of the most beautiful chateaux in the area.
Full Day Wine Tour From Dijon – Discover the French countryside and learn about the wine and the vineyards, from the vine pruning to the oak barrel maturing, the importance of the soil (terroir) and all the secrets of great wine-making.
CHAMPAGNE – Champagne is probably the most famous wine in the world. It’s the wine that people have turned to for almost 300 years to celebrate and to create the special moments in their lives. You’ll be amazed and delighted by all there is to see, do and taste in Champagne.
Chateau d’Etoges – In the heart of the Champagne countryside, this listed, historic chateau sits imposingly in the middle of a 50-acre park. Enjoy a delicious menu in the hotel’s restaurant and pamper yourself in the spa. Plus, explore all of the nearby Champagne houses for tastings and tours.
One day getaway in Champagne – Become a Champagne expert and discover the heart of Champagne as you walk through the vineyards, taste the wine and meet the winemakers.
Too Far to Drive? Fly instead…
BARCELONA – A trip to Barcelona means you’re perfectly located for exploring the nearby wine region of Priorat. Get the best of both worlds by staying in the city and travelling to the wineries which lie beyond.
The5Rooms – A small urban oasis located in the centre of town, The5Rooms is perfect for exploring Barcelona as well as Priorat’s wineries.
Wineries and Vineyards of Priorat – Visit two wineries for a tour and tasting, plus enjoy lunch at a typical Catalan restaurant.
DOURO VALLEY – Portugal’s Douro Valley, the birthplace of Port, is one of the oldest and most beautiful and historical wine regions in the world. Wine has been made here for over 2000 years, so they’ve certainly had time to perfect it.
Qunita da Veiga – This 18th century manor house is located on the right bank of Douro river where you can enjoy boat trips and canoeing adventures. It’s great location is perfect for exploring nearby wineries, plus the breathtaking views will blow you away.
Douro Full Day Wine Tour (Sabrosa & Pinhao) – Travel through the beautiful landscapes of the Douro Valley and visit two different wine estates tasting their delicious wines.
PROVENCE – Characterised for its abundantly sunny climate and promising palate of Rosé wines, Provence offers a great getaway this bank holiday.
Metafort – Perfect for a romantic weekend escape, or a restful stay in a serene hotel, this is the ideal place to forget about stress. Put up your feet and enjoy a massage in the wellness centre, and afterwards soak up the stunning views of the Nesque Valley and the Mont Ventoux from the incredible infinity pool.
Provence Wine and History Tour from Avignon – Discover Avignon by foot; visit great landmarks to get a feel for the history and enjoy winery visits where wine tasting is a must.
WILD CARD – Stay at an English Winery
Rooms at the Winery – Located in the heart of the beautiful English countryside, this winery and hotel is the perfect relaxing getaway for Wine lovers. Enjoy a guided tour of the winery and vineyards, plus discover the history of Folkstone and the surrounding Kent areas.