Cultural Program

Arrival at Vichy train station in the afternoon. Welcome by the Alliance Française Vichy.  Drive to your studio or host family’s house.

Typical itinerary from RDU:
1- Direct flight RDU-Paris
2- Taxi RDU- Gare de Bercy
3- Direct train to Vichy

2:15pm-4:30pm
Walking tour of Vichy, organized by the local Tourist Office.   You will discover the city's most important landmarks and unique history. No better way to start your French immersion experience!
4:30pm-6:30pm
French Apéro - experience a typical French happy hour with a taste of regional products.

2:15pm-7:30pm
Drive to Château Chareil-Cintrat. Explore the gardens and vineyards and learn about the wine-making techniques used at the château.  
Wine tasting in the château's cellars.

1:30pm-5:30pm
Take a cultural walk through historic Moulins, the capital of the Bourbonnais region.   Visit the “Mantin House” museum, built on the ruins of a château.

5:30pm - 11:00pm
Enjoy an unforgettable dinner in a Bourbon castle, where the chatelains warmly welcome you like friends. Dine in a grand setting, surrounded by chandeliers and antique furniture, with terrace view of the gardens.
       

2:00pm - 6:00pm
Visit Charroux, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," for a step back into medieval history. Wander its cobbled streets, admire half-timbered houses, and explore workshops where local artisans craft candles, jams, mustard, soap, jewelry, and pottery, all showcasing the village's authentic craftmanship.

4:00pm
Enjoy a 50-minute massage at at “Spa des Célestins.”  The spa offers a giant bath of naturally warm thermal waters, sauna, hammam with ice fountain, cold water bath for legs, cardio-training area and organic herbal tea room.

Meet at 111 boulevard des Etats-Unis (SPA CELESTINS, opposite Hôtel des Célestins)