Try France Wine Tours For Getting A True Taste Of The Country

By Josephine Pennington


In Europe, a country that is visited more often than most others is France. This is because there is so much to see and do here, with something for everyone, whether you like history, art, the outdoors, beaches or fashion. It's the ultimate foodie destination too and the perfect way to enjoy the local tastes while admiring the scenery is with France wine tours.

Probably the country's most famous wines come from the Bordeaux region, the world's second largest wine region. Base yourself in the lovely city of Bordeaux, on the banks of the Garonne River in the southwestern part of the country, and go on day trips to the area's many vineyards. Bordeaux city has a museum dedicated to wines too, which makes for a great introduction before you go on a tasting trip.

The Burgundy region offers everything that makes the French countryside so romantic. Medieval towns like Semur-en-Auxois, forests and lakes make this centrally located region a joy to explore. Dijon, the regional capital, has stunning churches, museums and other buildings to explore but is probably best known for its mustard.

No celebration is complete without a bottle of bubbly and for this, there's only one place to go. The Champagne region, near the border with Germany, gave the drink its name, after all. A wonderful city to use as base here is Reims, since it's home to many champagne producers. Its cathedral is famous too since for many years it was the site of French kings' coronations.

To the south of Paris you'll find a region that you simply have to explore. The vineyards of the Loire Valley produce red as well as white wines. The region is also filled with castles, many of which are located near Orleans, the hometown of Joan of Arc.

The French summer is best enjoyed in Provence, located in the southeast. Fields of jasmine and lavender perfume the air and the countryside is dotted with villages that haven't changed much since the Middle Ages or since the days when Van Gogh and Gauguin lived and painted here. The Rhone flows through the region and is best explored on a barge. Be prepared for some serious gluttony though, since Provence is foodie heaven and also produces excellent rose wines.

The ultimate French destination is Paris. The City of Lights is the world's fashion capital and an incredibly romantic place to visit, with excellent museums such as the Louvre as well as many other sights, including the Eiffel Tower. While in Paris, try the many different wines served in the local eateries and make a list of where your favorites are from. Paris is so centrally located that you can then easily visit a specific region on a day trip from here.

Most French travel agencies offer wine tours. You'll also be able to book with travel agents in your own country. This has the advantage that you'll be assured of a guide that will speak English. Many agencies offer packages for booking online as well. Otherwise, hire a car, arm yourself with a map and visit the vineyards on your own time.




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