Provincial French Countryside

October 13 - 27, 2027

Length: 15 days

Region(s): Europe

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Land, Small Group Tours

Savor the beauty, charm, and warm hospitality of provincial France on a small-group journey anchored by stays in vibrant Toulouse and enchanting Paris. Travel through diverse Languedoc, the remote Dordogne, the lovely Loire Valley, and historic Normandy while staying in character-rich rural inns and small country hotels that capture the spirit of each region.

Operated by Odysseys Unlimited

not including airfare, airline taxes/fees, or transfers

Tour Details Reservation Request

Tour Highlights

Step back in time in medieval Carcassonne, wandering its double ramparts, fortified towers, and cobbled lanes.
Stop in the market town of Albi to explore its brick-built cathedral and visit the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, housed in a historic bishop’s palace.
Take in the dramatic setting of cliffside Rocamadour, a famed pilgrimage site clinging to the rock above a deep gorge.
Visit Lascaux IV, a meticulous reconstruction of the famed prehistoric caves, to admire remarkable Paleolithic paintings and engravings.
Drift along the Dordogne River on a scenic cruise, passing limestone cliffs, wooded hills, and hilltop villages.
Admire the elegant château of Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the River Cher, with time to stroll its manicured gardens.
Cross the tidal causeway to medieval Mont-Saint-Michel, crowned by its abbey and surrounded by shifting sands and sea.
Tour Normandy’s Landing Beaches and key D-Day sites, gaining insight into the events of June 1944.
Reflect at the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, where rows of white crosses create a powerful memorial.
Visit the Memorial Museum in Caen for a deeper understanding of World War II and its impact on Normandy and Europe.
Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny, including the iconic water lily pond and Japanese bridge that inspired his masterpieces.
Conclude with a Paris city tour, taking in iconic landmarks and grand boulevards that provide a fitting finale to this tour de force through provincial France.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.