Carcassonne

This tour is based at the pinnacle of the mediaeval citadel of Carcassonne where we stay at the historic Hotel de la Cité, built into the ramparts with panoramic views of the countryside. It is from here that we will explore the many distinctive regions of this beautiful part of southwest France.

Nice

French artists began to discover the attractions of the Côte d’Azur and the iridescent quality of the region’s dazzling light towards the end of the 19th century. Monet was the first artist to be lured to the Riviera, arriving there in 1885.

5 nights price from £2225 per person

There are many great gardens dotted along the Côte d’Azur between St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and the border with Italy. Along with the artists, many gardeners were drawn to the Riviera, attracted by both its climate and its beauty.

5 nights price from £2158 per person

Paris

Christmas is an excellent time to visit Paris with the Champs-Élysées dressed in festive lights, atmospheric Christmas markets and all the cultural attractions open as usual, but with far fewer visitors. We will visit in the company of art historian and Paris-resident Patrick Bade.

5 nights price from £3896 per person

Bordeaux

At the confluence of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, the elegant city of Bordeaux is not only one of France’s most charming, but has become a byword for fine wines over the course of many centuries. We will visit some of the best winemakers in the company of The Spectator's wine expert Jonathan Ray.

Paris

Our new tour to Paris has been designed to introduce you to secret corners of this great city, as well as a varied collection of museums and galleries which we think will come as delightful surprises, even to those who already feel they know the city well.

4 nights price from £2995 per person

Champagne

Whet your appetite for the festive season with a pre-Christmas Champagne escape in the company of wine expert Tim Clarke. Based in the heart of Reims, walking distance from the magnificent gothic cathedral where the kings of France were crowned, we will enjoy exclusive tastings and delicious cuisine, as well as time to explore the atmospheric Christmas markets.

3 nights price from £2898 per person

A fascinating cultural blend of French and Germanic influences, Alsace is a region of half-timbered mediaeval towns and delicious cuisine which combines French refinement with hearty Germanic ingredients such as Choucroute, the regional speciality.

4 nights price from £2279 per person