• France

Overview

A home to Catholicism since the very beginning, France has been the site of countless miracles, including the appearance of Our Lady of Lourdes. This tour will intermingle spiritual reflection time at these sites with visits to stunning cathedrals & the key French sites that can't be missed.

This program is only available for groups of 10 or more at this time.

Highlights

  • Paris - Visit Montmartre, Basilique du Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, & the Palace of Versailles.
  • Limoges - Tour Pavillon de la Porcelaine where you can watch a piece of porcelain art being made
  • Lourdes - See the Holy Spring & the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
  • Bordeaux - Visit the gothic Basilique Saint-Micheal.

Itinerary

Day 1: Paris

Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, we will visit Montmartre. High on the only hill overlooking Paris, the area has long been famous for its artists, & its magnificent Basilique du Sacre Coeur. The interior of the church contains one of the world's largest mosaics, depicting Christ with outstretched arms. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 2: Paris

We begin our sightseeing tour with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Next, board the Bateaux Mouches on the Seine. It is a relaxing way to view the historic landmarks lining the riverbanks as well as the many splendid bridges, including the Pont Neuf. The oldest bridge in Paris, it dates back to 1578. Disembark at the Quai D'Orsay, & visit the Musée d'Orsay, a museum dedicated to fine art dating from 1848 to 1914 which houses a suberb collection of Impressionist art. 

Day 3: Paris

Your morning tour will begin with a visit to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. Built in an age of illiteracy, the cathedral retells the stories of the Bible in its portals, paintings, & stained glass. Early afternoon, drive to Versailles & visit the Palace of Versailles, the official residence of Louis XIV in the 17th Century. Evening at leisure.

Day 4: Paris & Limoges

Early morning departure to Limoges, capital of the region of Limousin.  The porcelain industry has been greatly influenced by the Limoges Haviland factory. Visit the Pavillon de la Porcelaine where you can watch a piece of porcelain art being made. Don't miss the museum that retraces the history of this unusual family, originally from the US. In the 19th century, they decided to launch the production of Limoges porcelain in order to sell it on the American market. Since then, it has shaped the town's destiny. A walk through the streets of the city center reveals its full importance. 

Day 5: Limoges & Lourdes

Early morning departure to Lourdes, where Our Lady of Lourdes repeatedly appeared to a young girl during 1858. Since that time, the spring shown to the girl by Our Lady has been known as a place of miraculous healing. Begin with an orientation of the Grotto, the Holy Spring & the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Your afternoon is at leisure.

Day 6: Lourdes

Today's activities will include Mass at the Grotto, a visit to the one-room home at Boly Mill where St. Bernadette was born, walk the Stations of the Cross overlooking the Grotto, and visit the Chapel.    

Day 7: Lourdes & Bordeaux

Visit the gothic Basilique Saint-Micheal (14th-16th C), with a free-standing belfry. From the top, you'll have wonderful views of the city, including: the City Hall quarter, its cathedral & the Palais Rohan. Optional visit to and wine tasting at a local vineyard. Evening at leisure.

Day 8: Bordeaux

Departure from Bordeaux.

Optional Add-ons

Available upon request

Includes

  • International flights
  • Round-trip airfare
  • Meeting & assistance upon arrival
  • Porterage at hotels
  • 7 Nights hotel accommodations
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
  • Meals are indicated by (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner
  • Local taxes & service charges
  • Sightseeing with licensed tour guides
  • Touring with air conditioned deluxe motor coach