Following months of meticulous curation, Trafalgar has officially launched its inaugural Villages of France departure, signalling a strategic shift toward deeper immersion and a “slow travel” philosophy within the French countryside. The first group of guests set off on 11 April 2026, embarking on a route specifically designed to bypass traditional highways in favour of the authentic character found in France’s lesser-known locales.
The nine-day itinerary focuses on the “road less travelled,” prioritising storytelling and community connection over high-volume tourism hubs. This new direction is underscored by the introduction of exclusive experiences that highlight regional heritage and social responsibility.
Redefining the Guest Connection
A centrepiece of the journey is the brand-new Be My Guest Experience at the Château de Vieux Chambord. Hosted by the Devaulx de Chambord family, the visit emphasises personal connection through:
- Authentic Culinary Craft: A traditional meal featuring locally sourced beef, prepared days in advance and barbecued on-site to provide a sensory, relaxed dining atmosphere.
- Curated Ambiance: Historic spaces within the château were transformed with spring floral arrangements, reflecting the pride and attention to detail inherent in French hospitality.
As the journey progresses through the storybook villages of Beaune, Colmar, and Ribeauvillé, the itinerary leverages local expertise to provide historical context. In Strasbourg, guests participate in an in-depth exploration of the city’s cathedral led by Local Specialist Thierry, who provides professional insight into the region’s unique architecture and Franco-Germanic character.
Purposeful Travel Integration
In alignment with Trafalgar’s commitment to sustainable tourism, the itinerary features a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Strasbourg. Guests visit Café Joyeux, an enterprise dedicated to inclusive employment within the hospitality sector.
- Impactful Interaction: Guests engage with a diverse team of professionals, fostering cross-cultural understanding and supporting the growth of inclusive workplace environments.
- Community Support: The experience is designed to challenge perceptions while providing tangible support to the local social enterprise.
The itinerary continues through the Champagne region and the town of Meaux—renowned for its Brie cheese—where guests engage with local farmers’ markets before concluding the circuit in Paris.
“This first departure of Villages of France represents a culmination of collaboration and craftsmanship,” said Louise Levesque, TTCTB Partner Marketing Director, Oceania. “It is a testament to the fact that when travel is created with care and a deep respect for local communities, it creates memories that last far beyond the journey itself.”
The Villages of France itinerary is from AU$4,925/NZ$5,350 for more information on upcoming departure dates, travel advisors are encouraged to visit: https://www.trafalgar.com/tours/villages-of-france or call 1300 78 78 78 (AU)/ 0800 872 325 (NZ).
