TAPESTRY | Journey Through France
April 12 - 22, 2024
Tour begins in Paris, France and ends in Bordeaux, France
for Single Accommodations
This Trip Includes
AIRFARE & TRANSFERS
Round trip international airfare from Chicago (ORD); Group transfer upon arrival and for departure
9 NIGHTS
Hotel accommodations, including baggage handling
13 MEALS
American breakfast (B) daily, 4 dinners (D)
SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES
Guided sightseeing with your Tour Manager as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary; visits, admissions and special features are shown in bold.
PROFESSIONAL TOUR MANAGER
Full time, English-speaking throughout the trip
Tour Highlights
- Kick-off Welcome Dinner
- Paris Panoramic City Tour
- Montmartre Fabric Shopping
- Eiffel Tower
- Seine River Dinner Cruise
- Palace of Versailles Tour
- Gardens of Versailles
- Monet’s Garden
- Normandy City Tour
- D-Day Landing Beaches
- Pour L’Amour Patchwork Festival
- Musée du Textile
- Bordeaux City Tour
- Customary Farewell Dinner
Hand Selected Hotels
PARIS
Novotel Paris Les Halles
CAEN
Mercure Caen Central
NANTES
Mercure Nantes Central
BORDEAUX
Mercure Bordeaux Chateau Chartrons
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through France, where art, history, and quilting intertwine with world-renowned landmarks, inspiring textile museums, and the breathtaking Pour l’Amour du Fil quilt show.
DAY 1
OVERNIGHT FLIGHT
Embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes and lively allure of France.
DAY 2
ARRIVE IN PARIS
Unwind and nestle in your cozy hotel located in the heart of Paris, a city rich with inspirational patterns and textures. Tonight, you’ll meet your Tour Manager and travel companions and savor the culinary delights of France at your Welcome Dinner. B, D
DAY 3
PARIS
After indulging in a French breakfast, let our private guide illuminate the gems of “The City of Lights” on a panoramic city tour. Behold iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, and the captivating Place Vendôme. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure as Paris — a living, breathing patchwork of history and art — unravels its wonders before you. B
DAY 4
PARIS
Your day unfolds with a visit to the stunning Palace and Gardens of Versailles, where grandeur and meticulous designs await your curious eyes. This afternoon, dive into the ambiance of Montmartre, with its romantic streets reflecting centuries-old creativity. As you explore, you may stumble upon boutiques bursting with fabrics, notions, and wearables, perfect for your next quilting project. The evening beckons you to experience Paris in all its glamour on an enchanting Seine River dinner cruise under the glittering gaze of the Eiffel Tower, a testament to the splendor of structure and form. B
DAY 5
PARIS – CAEN
Depart this morning for Giverny, the enchanting home of French Impressionist painter Claude Monet, a space brimming with colors that could inspire a thousand quilts. Later, travel to Caen, located in the Normandy region, famous for its intricate lacework. Tonight, enjoy a delightful dinner, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers. B, D
DAY 6
CAEN – NORMANDY
Immerse yourself in history as you tour the sites of the D-Day landings, poignant places that remind us of the tapestry of human courage and sacrifice. Pay homage at Omaha Beach Visitor Centre, Utah Beach Museum, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. After a day filled with profound moments, recharge with a traditional cider and lunch at a charming waterside restaurant, reflecting on the indelible impressions left by the day. B
DAY 7
NORMANDY – NANTES
After a tranquil morning, venture from Normandy to Nantes, pausing en route to savor lunch, a time to share quilt ideas sparked by your travels so far. Once settled into your hotel, get ready for a rustic French dinner at a local restaurant. With a big day at the quilt show tomorrow, retire early for a restful night, perhaps sketching out your new quilt design ideas. B
DAY 8
NANTES
After a delightful breakfast, enjoy a full day at the Pour l’Amour du Fil quilt show, a heaven for quilters. Lose yourself in a world of textile arts, workshops, and more, soaking up inspiration from every corner. It’s not just a show, it’s an unforgettable experience! B
DAY 9
NANTES – BORDEAUX
After breakfast, journey to Bordeaux, France’s renowned art and wine city, ready to absorb its flavors, textures, and colors into your quilting palette. En route, visit the Musée du textile in Cholet, marveling at the incredible craft of generations past. Once in Bordeaux, get settled into your plush hotel, your home for the rest of the tour. B
DAY 10
BORDEAUX
Greet the day with a delicious French breakfast before embarking on a city tour led by a local guide, unraveling the artistic fabric of this vibrant city. After, explore the city at your leisure, seeking out unique souvenirs and treasures. In the evening, raise a toast to your new friends and memorable journey at our Farewell Dinner, stitching together your shared experiences into a patchwork of precious memories. B, D
DAY 11
BORDEAUX – TOUR ENDS
Reflect on the magical journey over breakfast before setting off to the airport and bidding adieu to the memories and inspirational tapestry of the past days. B