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Wine holiday in France: One holiday, three ways

A short break, an in-depth holiday, and an active option

Friday 05 December 2014 06:09 EST
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We targeted three companies to ask for their best offer on a wine holiday in France next year: a short break (Champagne); an in-depth holiday (multi-centre); and an active option (Bordeaux). Prices are per person, based on two travelling together, and include return travel from the UK plus B&B accommodation.

In-depth: £1,194, Smooth Red

Includes Dover to Calais ferry, departing 10 October, and a 12-night self-drive tour of regions including Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux. "This tour gives wine lovers an insight into six famous wine regions," says director Adam Stebbings (020 8877 4940; smoothred.co.uk).

Active: £633, Grape Escapes

Includes easyJet flights from Luton to Bordeaux on 12 June, transfers, two nights' accommodation, tastings and a full-day wine tour on electric bikes. "The tour offers the chance to taste wines from top Bordeaux chateaux," says managing director Mark Hallett (01763 273 373; grapeescapes.net).

Short: £595, Arblaster & Clarke

Includes coach travel to Champagne from London or Folkestone on 5 November, plus vineyard visits with tastings and two nights' accommodation. "This tour will change the way you think about Champagne," says programme organiser Katrina Smith (01730 263111; winetours.co.uk).

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