Cahors, the capital of the Lot region in the southwest of France, is often overlooked, overshadowed by neighboring Bordeaux. However, this gem of a region produces spectacular wines, rivaling the finest Bordeaux, and often at more competitive prices. It is also the birthplace of Malbec. Although famed as the grape of Argentina, and justifiably so, the climate and soils of the Mendoza region yield fantastic examples; in Cahors, the complex terroir creates some mighty fine specimens.
Discover this fascinating region with Cellar Tours. We will organize an experience that includes visiting top producers, exploring the charming town of Cahors, and tours of gorgeous medieval villages like Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Savor the local gastronomy in various settings, from fine dining in elite restaurants to hidden gems in local bistros and cafes, all while staying in luxurious chateaux hotels.
You will travel by a chauffeur-driven Mercedes, allowing you to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery. If you wish to indulge in fine wine and food and stray slightly from the typical tourist path, a tour through the enchanting Cahors region is perfect for you. Contact us for more information and to receive your personalized, bespoke itinerary.
Signature journey
Highlights include Luxury Transportation, VIP tour and tastings, Gourmet Experience, Luxurious Accommodation, and Fabulous Excursions.
Day 1Cahors - Mercurès
Luxury Relais & Châteaux, Château de Mercuès
Your private chauffeur in a luxury Mercedes will collect you from your arrival point—be it Bergerac, Toulouse airport, or Cahors train station—at your chosen time. First, you will visit the delightful town of Cahors. Dating back to the 13th century, the medieval town’s historic center has narrow lanes and beautiful townhouses. The cathedral, boasting a beautiful cloister, is also worthy of a visit. Then, you will have a 40-minute drive to your first winery, Clos Triguedina. You will enjoy a private tour, tasting, and a light lunch at the winery. The winery is a fantastic treat, and your VIP tasting will include seven of their best wines, including an old vintage of Probus 1997.
After this sensational welcome to Cahors wines, you will move on to your next winery, Château de Mercuès, with its striking Château and even more spectacular cellar. Not only will the setting blow you away, but you will also taste a range of their wines, each using over 70% Malbec in the blends. Another inspiring example of how the Cahors terroir expresses itself in this “black wine.” This captivating Château will also be your overnight destination. Check in, relax, soak up the enchanting atmosphere, and enjoy a treatment at the spa and wellness center.
Tonight, you will dine at the on-site restaurant, helmed by Julien Poisot. You will enjoy an exceptional nine-course tasting menu, wonderfully blending local, seasonal ingredients from the region, including Quercy Lamb, Aubrac Beef, and truffles. Bienvenue à Cahors!
Day 2Mercuès-Bru-Mercuès
Château de Chambert cellars
Start your morning with a relaxing, leisurely breakfast. Then, at 10:30 a.m., your chauffeur will collect you for a 30-minute drive to your first winery of the day, the mythical Château du Cèdre. Jean-Marc and Pascal, brothers and co-owners, proudly continue the family legacy their father, Charles, began in the 1970s. This dynamic pair will welcome you to try their award-winning, seductive black wine, which includes over 90% Malbec-enjoy!
Lunch is next at another sterling winery and bistro, Château de Chambert. Famed as the largest organic and biodynamic vineyard in Cahors. Your table will be waiting for you on their pretty terrace (weather permitting) overlooking the vines or comfy bistro in the grange. Enjoy a laid-back lunch featuring local meats and cheeses perfectly paired with their delicious wines.
After lunch, take a digestive walk around the vines and winery, followed by the mouthwatering finale: a tasting of the Chambert range. Then, you will return to your enchanting, fairytale-like hotel. Settle in and make the most of a free evening.
Day 3Rocamadour-Saint-Cirq Lapopie-Mercuès
Cliffside Hamlet of Rocamadour
Today is dedicated to discovering the picturesque nearby villages and enjoying an excellent fine dining experience. The first stop is the stunning village of Rocamadour, literally clinging to the cliffs above the Alzou gorge. This picture-postcard medieval village is dotted with religious buildings and has been an important pilgrimage center for centuries. Some highlights include Saint Sauveur Basilica, the L’Hospitalet, where you can take in the village’s best views, and the pedestrianized boutique-lined street, where some charming houses dating back to the 13th century can be spotted.
Then on to equally as beautiful Saint-Cirq lapopie. This historical village is also best discovered on foot. You will surely work up an appetite and have ample choice for a light bite to eat at a cozy café or wine bar. (we recommend you keep it light as tonight you have a gastronomic treat in store!). Saint-Cirq Lapopie, having been in the middle of many feuds over the years, boasts extensive and imposing castles and fortresses. Stroll around and soak up the atmosphere, which has for centuries and continues to inspire artists, poets, and writers alike.
Continue to the stunning Pech Merle prehistoric cave, home to authentic ancient paintings over 20,000 years old. It is genuinely remarkable to see how these extraordinary works of art have been preserved. There is also a very informative museum, worthy of a peek while you are there. Arrive at your castle hotel in the early evening, relax, and freshen up before dinner.
Dinner will be a gourmet tasting menu at the excellent restaurant in your hotel. The tantalizing treats that you will experience this evening may include Bouyssou’s farm pan-fried foie gras, and Celtuce cooked with tonic, peach with Mexican tarragon and jus with timut pepper; Poached monkfish in a citrus butter, creamy yellow beetroot puree, watercress sauce, Limousine sirloin beef with marrow, dauphine potatoes and slightly smoked vine branch jus, an exquisite selection of cheeses and finishing with something sweet such as Ashanti chocolate mousse, jelly, and Malbec reduction, mulled wine sorbet. Each dish is perfectly paired with some of the best wines in the region. What a finale!
Day 4Your next port of call
Pont Valentre, 14th century bridge
After the last breakfast at your supremely romantic hotel, carry on to your next port of call. Bordeaux and Dordogne are in easy reach if you would like to add on a few more days to your luxury, chauffeured tour. Bon, voyage!
Cellar Tours private itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, winery appointments, restaurant planning, and practical support before and during your journey.
Depending on the destination and proposal, your tour may also include private guides, tastings, special experiences, cultural visits, regional transfers, and dining reservations.
Your custom proposal will clearly show what is included, what is optional, and what is not included.
Our custom itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, private winery appointments & tastings, restaurant planning, and support before and during your travel.
International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, optional spa treatments, gratuities and meals or tastings not listed in your itinerary are usually not included unless specifically stated.
All itineraries are private and pre-arranged for your party.
Yes, 100%. Share mobility considerations, allergies, dietary preferences, and pacing needs early so we can adapt hotels, transport, restaurants, and visits wherever possible.
