See Bordeaux with Solange

When Solange Bely talks about visiting her grandmother's home town, you'd best go with her. So personal are Bely's tours in southern France, her parents leave their home in Bordeaux and join the 15-day tour for five days.

Having spent her childhood holidays harvesting grapes on her grandmother's property in the medieval town of St Emilion, Bely now returns to the Bordeaux region twice a year with small groups ( maximum nine) of New Zealanders. Walking ancient pathways for several hours each day is all part of the journey, as are meeting and dining with local people, including Bely's family and friends.

The tour cost of around $7500 (excluding airfares) covers accommodation, wine, food, attending festivals and other attractions.

Tours leave New Zealand late this month and early September.

Troubadour Travel (09) 434 3314, fax (09) 434 3316, solange@realfrance.co.nz

Real France