Day 1: Arrival in Carcassonne
As you arrive in Carcassonne, be welcomed with a smile and a complimentary bottle of wine at your first five-star accommodation – perfect for enjoying as you soak up the atmosphere of this fairytale city.
Then, take the afternoon to explore at your leisure. SmoothRed can provide a list of recommended restaurants for the evening and we would be happy to make a reservation for you. Your classic car will be available to collect on your day of arrival to begin your dream self-drive holiday.
Day 2: Wine Tasting in Languedoc-Rousillon
After breakfast, meet your English-speaking guide and head off for your first Languedoc-Rousillon wine tasting. Here you’ll learn secrets old and new as you compare the winemaking techniques of yesterday and today.
Then it’s off to enjoy lunch in the once-besieged-now-beloved village of Minerve, before another Languedoc wine tasting in a local family-owned domaine.
Day 3: Explore the Fortified Town of Carcassonne
Take the chance to get under the skin of Carcassonne; the fortified town is home to La Cité, one of the most remarkable medieval sights in the world and a deserving UNESCO World Heritage site.
Then make the drive to Avignon and check in at your accommodation in the heart of the city, before taking the afternoon to explore.
Day 4: Wine and Cheese Tasting in Avignon
After breakfast there’s no time to waste as you meet your English-speaking guide and head off for your first Provençal wine tasting, as well as tastings at three Rhône Valley appellations, at the historic village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Then it’s on to a pre-dinner tasting where you’ll enjoy a range of the region’s most prestigious wines alongside a selection of local cheeses. Spend the evening exploring Avignon’s picturesque squares, shops and galleries and see artists, actors, mimes and musicians plying their trade around the spectacular Palais des Papes.
Day 5: Cruise From Avignon to Cannes
Drive onward to Cannes in the French Riviera, your final destination – perhaps stopping off at the gardens of Rocher des Doms or venturing out into the surrounding lush lavender fields en route in your classic car.
Arrive and check in to your elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Cannes before a three-course Provençal dinner overlooking the town’s old port.
Day 6: Take a Boat to an Island off the Coast of Cannes
After breakfast, set off by boat to an idyllic island off the Cannes coast. The island is home to the Cistercian Congregation monks who live peacefully in the sun-kissed paradise and have been making beautiful wines since the Middle Ages.
On the island you’ll enjoy a private tour before a delicious three-course lunch accompanied by wine and liqueurs.
Day 7: Final day to Explore Cannes
The final day of your trip is yours to discover Cannes itself. Perhaps you’ll wander the Promenade de la Croisette and take in the stunning architecture, renowned restaurants and exclusive designer boutiques – or, if you’d prefer a quieter, more cultural experience, explore Le Suquet old town overlooking the west end of the port. Later that afternoon, relax with private local transfers to Nice Airport.
Where You Could Stay in the South of France
Hôtel de la Cité
Set in an idyllic spot within the ancient ramparts of Carcassonne, the Hôtel de la Cité is a luxurious five-star hotel built on the site of a former bishop’s palace.
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Domaine de Verchant
Domaine de Verchant is a luxurious hotel and spa housed in a former mansion. Set on a wine estate, Domaine de Verchant is a stunning boutique hotel with picturesque gardens and idyllic spa.
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Hotel d’Europe
Hotel d’Europe is a grand 16th century townhouse that’s hosted an impressive guest list from Napoleon Bonaparte and Jacqueline Kennedy to Victor Hugo, Picasso, and Salvador Dali.
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Hotel De Cambis
Tucked within the legendary ramparts of Avignon, Hotel De Cambis sits within a majestic old building in the heart of the Old Town.
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Hotel La Mirande
Steeped in history, Hotel La Mirande rivals the splendour of the neighbouring Palais des Papes.
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Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic
Housed in an Art Deco palace on the fabled Boulevard de la Croisette, the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic is an icon of Cannes.
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We craft each itinerary just for you. Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable wine journey across France by Porsche.
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