French Châteaux Explorer – NEW TOUR

Travel to France

Travel to Dover for the short sea ferry crossing to Calais or Dunkerque and continue to the Chantilly area for the next 3 nights.  Check-in at the hotel and enjoy dinner together this evening.

Château de Chantilly and Chantilly Cream Workshop

The imposing Château de Chantilly, a jewel in the crown of France’s heritage,  is surrounded by parkland, gardens and the Forêt de Chantilly and renowned for its long history of equestrianism.  Next door is the prestigious Chantilly Racecourse and Great Stables which are home to the ‘Living Horse Museum’ and were built in 1719 and could house 240 horses and up to 500 hounds. Guided tours are available, on request. Explore the sumptuous gardens with statues, grottoes and lakes either on foot or by mini-train (additional cost payable locally).  Before leaving, we will learn how to whip up genuine Chantilly Cream finishing with a tasting, of course!

If time allows, make a stop at the nearby historic town of Senlis.  Here you can visit the 12th century cathedral and the castle ruins which offer a scenic walk.  Alternatively, you can enjoy a ride through the medieval centre in a horse and carriage.  Group dinner can be arranged in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel (please ask for details).

Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Melun and Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte

Visit the charming riverside town of Melun and perhaps take a Seine cruise or discover the ancient church of Notre Dame. The town was always the favourite residence of the Kings of France in medieval times.

Continue to the family-owned 17th Century baroque Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte, whose richly-decorated rooms have been restored to their former glory, provided the inspiration for Louis XIV to build Versailles.  It has also been featured on the big screen including the 2006 film ‘Marie Antoinette’ and the 1979 Bond film ‘Moonraker’, amongst others.  The gardens are equally impressive and there will be time to look around both the château and the gardens before dinner.

After a 3-course dinner in one of the on-site restaurants, you can enjoy the spectacle of the gardens and château illuminated by 2,000 candles as night falls. It’s a unique and truly memorable experience.

Note:  Illumination of the Château occurs after dinner most Saturdays from May to September.  Time dependent on weather and light conditions, but will be late in the evening towards the end of dinner service. Fireworks subject to confirmation and weather conditions.   Free on-site coach parking.  Limited and restricted access to some areas of the Château for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues (please ask for clarification)

Return to the hotel.

Return to the UK

Drive to Calais or Dunkerque for the short sea crossing to the UK.