Discover Bordeaux with TV chef James Martin
Join the star for a river cruise in the wine country where he first fell in love with food
THERE are few better destinations for food and wine-lovers than the south-west corner of France. On this new date for our eight-day luxury river cruise along the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, you’ll experience Bordeaux in the company of one of the UK’s most popular chefs, James Martin.
The chef, who hosts his own ITV show, Saturday Morning With James Martin, says it was his early trips to the Bordeaux region that cemented his passion for food and set him on the path to a culinary career. He worked as a trainee in the Michelin-starred Hostellerie de Plaisance in SaintEmilion, and is a regular visitor to this beautiful part of France.
He’ll share his love of the area during an exclusive talk, gala dinner, a Bordeaux foodie tour and a French classics cooking demonstration. To accompany the fabulous foodie experiences, you’ll be joined by wine expert Susy Atkins, who will take part in samplings of the region’s delicious drinks with you.
Setting off from Bordeaux, you’ll discover the Unesco-listed citadel in Blaye, where you can do yoga in the heart of the fortress, travel through the Medoc region and see Cadillac, Saint-Emilion and Libourne before returning to your starting point.
You’ll travel on the newest and most luxurious river cruise ship in France, SS Bon Voyage. It’s designed to immerse guests in French culture, art and wine, from its stunning polished-wood lobby to the marble-bathroomed staterooms. On board, you will find a choice of restaurants offering fivestar cuisine, with all meals and unlimited drinks included, a lounge, sun deck with stunning infinity pool, well-equipped fitness centre and the luxury Serenity River Spa.
REASONS TO BOOK
Meet James Martin: In his book, James Martin’s French Adventure,
James wrote: ‘France is the place that made me the chef I am today.’ He will tell tales of trying his first croissant during his formative years working in kitchens in the area. James and the Uniworld chefs will also create a special gala dinner menu for you, with wines chosen by Susy Atkins.
Take part in tastings with Susy Atkins: The region is famous for its vineyards and you will visit some of the most spectacular chateaux and wineries during your river cruise. To help you make the most of your visits, you will be accompanied on tastings at stunning wineries by popular wine expert Susy, who can answer your questions there and on board.
Cruise in complete luxury: Sailing with Uniworld is like cruising in a five-star hotel – you’ll enjoy industry-leading service while you journey through the beautiful countryside. In your Classic Stateroom, you will find hand-crafted Savoir beds. Wi-fi is included shipwide, as are tips and gratuities.
Unforgettable excursions: Experience the best of Bordeaux, including the Libourne farmers’ market for local cheeses, bread and fruit. You can also try a bike tour through the backstreets of Bordeaux and discover three Unesco World Heritage Sites.