Wine Tours in the French South-West
Wine tasting holidays in the South-West
Wine tours in the South-West of France – a region stretching from the Pyrénées foothills to the Massif Central and from the Garonne river banks to the Basque Country beaches – showcase a hidden gem for wine and food lovers. Spend an afternoon, a day or a weekend treating yourself to an authentic experience of French viticulture and gastronomy.
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from
290 €
per pers.
Experience a unique adventure exploring an original estate where land and ocean intertwine. Visit the most beautiful villages of the Basque Country, and indulge in a gourmet moment at the Basque Cake Museum.2 days | 1 night -
from
490 €
per pers.
A beautiful medieval castle near Cahors, tastings of the Malbec (the caracteristic grape variety of the region), a gastronomic dinner: a true wine romance!2 days | 1 night -
from
196 €
per pers.
Take a wonderful trip surrounded by a cosy atmosphere to discover the illustrious past of the 1856, Pau Golf Club, then meet the winemaker of Jurançon and taste the golden nectars.2 days | 1 night -
from
136 €
per pers.
A gustatory and ecological journey in the middle of the Pyrenees! Taste organic wines and enjoy a unique experience in an organic estate.2 days | 1 night -
from
99 €
per pers.
NewA convivial and gourmet day exploring two must-visit vineyards of the Southwest: Madiran and Armagnac. Enjoy guided tours and tastings, as well as lunch at the estate.1 day -
from
235 €
per pers.
Explore an exceptional terroir along the banks of the Tarn, about fifty kilometers from Toulouse, to draw out its most beautiful offerings: an exceptional wine with legendary grape varieties.3 days | 2 nights -
from
139,50 €
per pers.
NewTreat your loved ones to a getaway in the Southwest to discover the perfect alchemy between local cuisine and wines of the region. A weekend rich in human, wine and gourmet encounters.2 days | 1 night -
from
255 €
per pers.
NewUncover an exceptional terroir and embark on an unusual experience in the Périgord canopy. From tasting organic wines to exploring the Bergerac wine route, your weekend promises unforgettable memories!2 days | 1 night -
from
118 €
per pers.
From Madiran to Jurançon, discover the diversity of wines and terroirs in the Southwest of France. During this wine trip, enjoy unique gourmet experiences, full of conviviality.2 days | 1 night -
from
275 €
per pers.
NewDiscover Bergerac, one of the oldest wine appellations in France, and explore the estates and charming bastides that weave through the roads of Dordogne.3 days | 2 nights -
from
325 €
per pers.
Welcome in the Gers region! Combine a unique armagnac-tasting tour and the discovery of the cuisine of Gascony.3 days | 2 nights -
from
118 €
per pers.
During your epicurean stay between two regions, you will discover the Gascon terroirs and the Bearn hillsides. These wines will reveal their richness and their typicity, which go so well with delicious tapas.2 days | 1 night
Appellations and wines in South-West France
Often eclipsed by Bordeaux, the South-West’s wines have been growing in popularity thanks to their quality and unique terroirs in Cahors, Madiran, Jurançon and Armagnac.
Famous for its full-bodied reds, Cahors is known as the "black wine" region due to its rich, tannic and age-worthy wines, often with deep, dark fruit aromas. Madiran, in the Hautes-Pyrénées region only produces red wine, which earned the reputation as the wine of choice for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago as far back as the 11th century. The dark berry flavours and earthy undertones provide wines that age well. Jurançon, located in the Pyrénées foothills, produces both dry and sweet wines. The sweet wines are especially known for their vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. Armagnac, also part of the South-West viticultural region but better known for its brandy and Floc de Gascogne than its wine, is well worth a visit.
The region’s red wines are typically made from Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat grapes, while white wines tend to feature varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle. The region also has a few unique local grapes, such as Gros Manseng Petit Manseng (for white wines) and Fer Servadou (a red grape).
Check out the culinary scene in the South-West
The South-West of France is a culinary goldmine, with hardy dishes that pair wonderfully with the local wines. Cassoulet (a rich stew of sausage, pork and beans), foie gras and duck confit are considered the basics in the region. Local cow and goat cheeses, such as Ossau-Iraty, Rocamadour or Tomme des Pyrénées, also accompany the region’s wines beautifully. Some definite must-tastes include the truffles known as the “black diamonds of Perigord”, Espelette peppers and roasted lamb accompanied by a bottle-aged red wine from Cahors or Madiran. A great dessert idea is the traditional cream- or cherry-filled pastry called gâteau basque paired with an Irouléguy Blanc. And for a nightcap, why not enjoy a glass of Armagnac with plums from Agen!
Highlights in the South-West
History buffs won’t want to miss the numerous medieval cities throughout the region and tours of historic Armagnac houses are a great way to learn about the distillation process. For nature lovers, the stunning landscapes along the Camino de Santiago (also known as the Way of St. James) are unforgettable. And if you’re in the mood for a game of golf, make sure to visit the Pau Golf Club, the oldest on the European continent!
How to reach the South-West of France
By train: The region is served by high-speed (TGV) trains, so it’s easily accessible from Paris and other parts of France. Click here for French train timetables and fares.
By plane: Accessible via major cities with airports: Bordeaux (international), Toulouse and Pau.
By car: France’s South-West region is easily reached via major motorways and toll-free national roads, then you can drive through the foothills and villages to the vineyards on smaller country roads.