bordeaux, the dordogne & the loire
OCTOBER 2027
dr kathleen olive
*** Preliminary Itinerary ***
Explore the south-west of France, from Bordeaux’s celebrated viticulture, to the prehistoric cave art of the Dordogne and impressive châteaux and gardens of the Loire Valley
OVERVIEW
The history and culture of south-western France is fascinating, from prehistoric cave art to the medieval power struggles between the French and English in Aquitaine. In the modern era, the Loire Valley became a centre of innovation for châteaux and garden design, and Bordeaux emerged as a significant depot on the Garonne River for New World riches.
This 14-day itinerary commences with four nights in Bordeaux, where we explore the excellent collections of the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée d’Aquitaine and understand the history of fine wine in the prestigious Saint-Émilion district. In the Dordogne, we survey paleolithic cave art at Lascaux and investigate the prehistory of Western Europe at Les Eyzies. The tranquil beauty of the region is apparent on visits to iconic gardens such as Marqueyssac and a river cruise in La Roque-Gageac.
The tour concludes with four nights in Angers to admire outstanding monuments of the Middle Ages and the perfection of French garden design. After surveying the Apocalypse Tapestries and visiting Fontevraud Abbey, we visit a selection of châteaux in the Loire that track significant design developments, including Saumur, Azay-le-Rideau and the intricate broderies of Villandry.
The touring program is complemented by select gastronomic experiences, showcasing the best of Bordeaux, and by the experience of your tour leader Dr Kathleen Olive.
TOUR LEADER
Dr Kathleen Olive is one of Australia’s best-known cultural tour leaders, with over fifteen years’ experience leading tours to Western Europe, North America, Australasia and Japan. She is particularly known for her expertise in Italy, and holds a PhD in Italian Studies from the University of Sydney.
Kathleen lived and studied in Italy for a number of years, speaks fluent Italian and is a director of Limelight Arts Travel. Tour participants frequently praise her engaging and attentive leadership of a group.
“Kathleen was a knowledgeable and generous tour leader” – Barbara M, Exploring Medieval Burgundy, May 2025
Highlights
Appreciate Bordeaux’s historic role as a major riverine port, and understand its modern revitalisation
Delight in the extraordinary Saint-Émilion region, from its medieval emergence as a centre for winemaking to savouring some of France’s most esteemed appellations
Marvel at some of Western Europe’s oldest surviving art, in the caves and museums of the Dordogne
Experience the charm of the Dordogne’s stone villages, including the serene gardens at Marqueyssac and a barge cruise at La Roque-Gageac
Admire one of medieval Europe’s most outstanding artisanal achievements, in Anger’s Apocalypse Tapestries
Enjoy the elegance of the châteaux and gardens of the Loire, at Saumur and Azay-le-Rideau
Questions?
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