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.