Castles, Cathedrals, and Chateaux of SW France

May 15-24, 2017

Have you always dreamed of visiting France? Have you imagined yourself strolling through picturesque villages or sampling a lovely wine in a 500-year-old chateau?

Then this is your your opportunity! Join us May 15-24, 2017 for an exciting taste of the beauty of SW France, as we visit some of the best-loved castles, cathedrals and chateaux.

This year we are offering an intimate glimpse into the history and architecture of this lovely country. You will be escorted to some fabulous places including the medieval pilgrimage town of Conques, considered one of “The Most Beautiful Villages of France,” hidden high in the hills above the Lot valley. Conques is a veritable jewel of Romanesque art and architecture with its abbey church and tympanum. The surrounding village has much to offer in the way of tiny shops and vista views.

We will also enjoy a private tour of the Chateau Cenevieres in the Lot Region, by the owner, Patrick. He is quite knowledgeable aboutthe history of SW France and you will have a 1st-person account with his animated delivery. This Chateau is directly behind our lovely accommodations and offers views of the surrounding countryside from its high perch on the cliff above the River Lot. You might also get to peek inside the Alchemy room, where hundreds of years ago, then-philosopher/scientists attempted to turn base metals into gold.

We will also take in the medieval village and reconstructed castle at a hidden gem, not frequented by most: Belcastel. This is a favorite place of ours for guests, not only because it is serene and un-touristy, but the history of the castle reconstruction by Fernand Pouillon is an amazing story. You can wander thru the beautifully appointed rooms at your own speed with, and marvel at the man’s vision who re-built it, utilizing the same original methods of construction as well as enjoy the art galleries that have been recently installed, showcasing the most magical of paintings by contemporary painters. You can wander the tiny village and cross the medieval bridge while imagining life as it was there 600 years ago…If you are lucky, you might see one of the castle’s resident owls pass by…

Of course, you will experience the amazing pilgrimage site of Rocamadour, built into the very cliff on which it has stood for over a thousand years. There you will discover the “Black Madonna” found in the cave of St Amadour, a hermit and the first founder. The papal bull of Pope Martin V, from 1427 confirms that monks lived here since the 1st century. King Louis IX (St Louis) was a visitor here, along with his mother Blanche of Castile, in 1244. No visit to France would be complete without seeing this magnificent treasure.

During your stay, we may visit the chateau of the famous Josephine Baker, beloved singer and resistance fighter (yes! she WAS!) during WWII where you can tour her beautiful Chateau Milande and read about her history and the many contributions she made to France. You can wander thru the lovingly preserved rooms, and take in a live raptor show afterwards out on the lawn.

Of course, who would want to miss Najac, where Richard the Lion Heart stayed? We’ll do that as well, along with other interesting abbeys, cathedrals and even cemeteries. Your days will be full of interesting sights and memorable experiences. Join us for the adventure you’ve only dreamed about…You’ll never forget it!

Click here to reserve your spot.