Bordeaux is the indisputably one of the most famous wine regions in the world. While Bordeaux is magical year around, we recommend going during the summer time when you can cycle through the wine region to the stunning mix of vineyards, 18th century squares, unbelievably quaint villages, and medieval castles. Arrive in Bordeaux and ride alongside the Garonne River towards wine country. En Route, you can discover Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with vineyards dating back to Roman times. If you are looking to for a unique chateaux stay, look no further than Bordeaux. We love the Château Masion Noble where guests can relax in cosy rooms, lounge by the pool, and experience authentic French country living.
Visit the beautiful Bay of Arcachon to see Dune du Pyla, the tallest sand dune in Europe, and soak up the expansive views of the ocean from up top. Arcachon has historically been an oyster-farming region in France. Nothing evokes the tastes of Summer better than freshly shucked oysters with a glass of local white wine. Arcachon has a plethora of beautiful accommodations to choose from. We adore the Château Léognan which is a romantic Bed & Breakfast that makes its own wine and offers luxurious, one-of-a-kind bedrooms.
Sicily is the largest viticulture area in Italy and produces around 30% of the country’s total wine. The tradition of Sicilian winemaking dates back to 800 B.C., when Sicily was colonized by the ancient Greeks. There are 12 “Wine Roads” you can take in Sicily, each will lead to experience a different aspect of Sicilian culture, history, and wine. Head to the town of Taormina to see the stunning Greek Theatre which still remains today or visit the Aeolian Islands for the Malvasia delle Lipari, or “Wine of the Gods”. The Monaci Delle Terre Nere is a hidden gem nestled on Mount Etna, Europe’s biggest volcano. Not only is this boutique hotel Eco-Bio Certified, it also invites guests to relax in the black lava-stone pool overlooking the Sicilian countryside and taste organic dishes prepared with organic ingredients grown onsite.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape located in the Southern Rhône is famous for producing some of the most splendid red wines in the world. The commune of Chateauneuf-du-Pape was named after the then “new” castle constructed by Pope John XXII in the 14th century which you can still visit today. Make yourself at home at the romantic Château Juvenal where you can nap on the sunbeds surrounded by the magnificent landscape. Château Juvenal provides a great base for you to visit most beloved vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape or attend the famous July Avignon Festival with a fantastic line-up of artistic shows and performances.
Santorini is best experienced by boat where you can sail around the volcanic craters, swim in the underwater hot springs, and snorkel to see the unbelievable underwater volcanic relief. Many of Europe’s oldest white grape varieties, the Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, come from Santorini and are blended together to make the sweet Vinsanto and dry white wines. Enjoy a refreshing glass while watching the sunset at Mill Houses, a luxury boutique hotel that epitomizes an island getaway with its vaulted ceilings and whitewashed walls.
Authentic port is made in the historic Douro Valley in Portugal. We picked this sunbaked countryside as the best off-the-beaten-path location for its rustic charm not yet discovered by most wine lovers. Allow yourself plenty of time to meander along the river, visit beautiful sanctuaries, and sample some of the finest Portuguese delicacies. Unwind at the Baroque style Casa Das Torres De Oliveira with a unique glass of estate port or red wine.