Windstar Cruises
FRENCH FEAST: NORMANDY, BRITTANY & AQUITAINE
This comprehensive exploration of France includes an overnight in Rouen (Paris), and visits the Normandy, Brittany, and Aquitaine regions of France. Treat your palate to fine wines in Bordeaux and cider in Brittany. Taste regional specialties like Cancale oysters and Breton galettes. And feast your eyes on timeless scenery: the abbey on Mont St. Michel, St. Malo’s pink sandstone cliffs, Monet’s garden in Giverny where water lilies still have the power to inspire. Trace history through the ages from the rustic stone megaliths at Carnac to the opulence of Versailles to silent D-Day beaches. See iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. And write your own adventures as you hike the unspoiled wild Breton coast.
Booking Dates
05/16/2025 through 05/28/2026
Travel Dates
05/16/2025 through 06/10/2026
| Day 1 |
Bordeaux is ready for its close-up! After years of improvements, modern public transportation is in place and the city is gleaming after a wave of restorations. When visiting this lovely destination, be sure to walk across the Garonne River-spanning Stone Bridge (17 arches in all!) and see Place des Quinconces, France's grandest public square. Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, and famous art museums like Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux are must-sees as well. The city is the perfect launch point, too, for going tasting in this lovely wine-producing region. |
| Day 2 |
One of France's busiest commercial ports from the 14th to 18th centuries, it was the primary departure point for the founders of Montreal and many of the French Canadians. It is now a busy fishing port and the home of one of Europe's great sailing ports. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 3 |
Enjoy this day at sea as you travel to your next port of call. This is an opportunity to swim, catch some sun on deck or take advantage of the many activities that are onboard your ship. Eat heartily, take a nap and get ready for the next port of call ! This is what makes cruising so great. |
| Day 4 |
Saint-Malo, a captivating walled city on the coast of Brittany, France, invites visitors to step back in time while embracing the beauty of the rugged coastline. Known for its rich maritime history, this former pirate stronghold has retained its medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, towering granite walls, and fortifications that echo tales of seafaring adventures. The city’s heart is the Intra-Muros, or “within the walls,” where visitors can explore the 12th-century Saint-Malo Cathedral and walk along the ramparts, offering panoramic views of the English Channel and the nearby islands. Beyond its historical allure, Saint-Malo is a gateway to some of Brittany’s most stunning natural landscapes. The tidal phenomenon here is among the highest in Europe, creating a mesmerizing dance of the sea as it alternately reveals and conceals sandy beaches and rocky islets. For a unique experience, visit the nearby island of Grand Bé, accessible only at low tide, where the tomb of the famous French writer Chateaubriand overlooks the ocean. The city's beaches, such as Plage de l'Éventail, offer golden sands and are perfect for a day of relaxation or a scenic stroll along the coast. Saint-Malo also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, markets, and culinary delights. Seafood lovers will revel in the fresh catches of the day, including the local specialty, oysters from nearby Cancale. The city’s lively markets and quaint restaurants serve up the best of Breton cuisine, from savory crêpes to cider. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the local shops, where you can find everything from handmade crafts to maritime-themed souvenirs. Saint-Malo invites you to "Discover the Spirit of the Sea," a city where history meets the natural beauty of the Breton coast. Whether you're drawn by its storied past, stunning views, or delectable cuisine, Saint-Malo offers a truly unforgettable experience. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 11:00 PM
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| Day 5 |
Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands, popular for its beach resorts and scenic coastal cliffs. Arrive Time: 7:00 AM – Depart Time: 6:00 PM
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| Day 6 |
Located in the Normandy region of France, Cherbourg is an historic port city and ferry terminal situated on the English Channel. Cherbourg is best known for its maritime museum, Cité de la Mer, which includes tours inside Le Redoutable, a nonfunctional nuclear submarine, and exhibits on the Titanic and European emigration to the Americas. Replete with art, gardens, and historic buildings, Cherbourg has plenty to explore and discover. Arrive Time: 7:00 AM – Depart Time: 6:00 PM
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| Day 7 |
Set on the River Seine, Rouen is Normandy's capital and a breathtaking city steeped in history, art, and romance. Marvel at the exquisite Gothic architecture of the Palais de Justice, l'Église Saint-Maclou, l'Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen to gaze at the masterpieces of Monet, Velázquez, or Renoir. Stroll the cobbled paths of Vieux Rouen (Old Town Rouen), where the Gros-Horlage, an ornate Renaissance clock tower, stands tall. |
| Day 8 |
Set on the River Seine, Rouen is Normandy's capital and a breathtaking city steeped in history, art, and romance. Marvel at the exquisite Gothic architecture of the Palais de Justice, l'Église Saint-Maclou, l'Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen to gaze at the masterpieces of Monet, Velázquez, or Renoir. Stroll the cobbled paths of Vieux Rouen (Old Town Rouen), where the Gros-Horlage, an ornate Renaissance clock tower, stands tall. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
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06/03/26 - 06/10/26 |
Starting At $3,599 |
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