Lafayette: The Road to Revolution

Retracing Lafayette’s Path to America: From Chavaniac to Pasaia on the 250th Anniversary of His Departure

with Dr. Iris de Rode and Chuck Schwam
in partnership with the American Friends of Lafayette.

April 3rd – April 17th 2027

Overview  •  Hosts  •  Itinerary  •  Included  •  How to Reserve

You are invited to experience this remarkable story not through textbooks or monuments alone, but through the estates, archives, villages, and landscapes that shaped Lafayette’s life and ideals. 

Marking 250 years since his historic departure aboard La Victoire in 1777, this journey follows his path from Paris to Burgundy, Auvergne, the Basque Coast, and finally to Pasaia—the very harbour from which the nineteen-year-old Lafayette set sail for America in pursuit of liberty.

Along the way, guests will enjoy extraordinary access to places rarely open to the public, including private family estates, historic archives, and residences connected to Lafayette, Washington, Rochambeau, and the Franco-American alliance. Guided by renowned Lafayette scholar Dr. Iris de Rode and joined by descendants of the families who shaped this history, the experience brings the past vividly to life.

More than a commemorative tour, this is an invitation to stand where history unfolded, to deepen your connection to Lafayette’s legacy, and to celebrate the enduring ideals that continue to unite France and the United States a quarter millennium later.

 

Highlights Include

✓ Private after-hours Versailles

✓ Château de la Grange-Bléneau

✓ Châteaux de Chastellux & Vollore

✓ Lafayette descendants

✓ Chavaniac-Lafayette

✓ Pasaia commemorative ceremony

✓ Private archives & manuscripts

✓ Gala celebration in Versailles

Journey Overview

15 Days / 14 Nights

📍 Paris (4 nights)

📍 Rhône-Alpes (1 night)

📍 Auvergne (3 nights)

📍 Basque Coast (2 nights)

📍 Bilbao, Spain (1 night)

📍 Versailles (3 nights)

Language

English

Activity Level

Moderate walking and standing

Transportation 

Private motor coach throughout

Dietarty Requirements 

Can be accommodated with advance notice

More than a tour, this commemorative journey marks the 250th anniversary of Lafayette’s departure for America—inviting those passionate about French influence on the American Revolution to retrace the path of a young idealist whose courage helped shape two nations, and whose legacy continues to inspire the pursuit of liberty today.
Your Hosts

Dr. Iris de Rode

Historian • Author • Lafayette Scholar

Dr. Iris de Rode is a Dutch historian specializing in the French-American alliance during the American Revolution. Her fascination with the era began with a tulip poplar in her family’s Burgundy garden, planted by François-Jean de Chastellux, one of George Washington’s closest French allies. That curiosity led her to the Château de Chastellux, where she uncovered more than 6,000 pages of previously unknown manuscripts, including correspondence with Washington, Jefferson, and Madison.

She earned her PhD from Université Paris 8 in 2019 and is the author of the award-winning biography François-Jean de Chastellux (1734–1788), un soldat-philosophe dans le monde atlantique à l’époque des Lumières (2022), which received the Prix Guizot of the Académie française in 2023. She has also published on the American Revolution, the Enlightenment, and Franco-American relations in academic journals and books.

Dr. de Rode is the 2026-2027 Thomas Jay McCahill III Fellow at the American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati, and is writing a forthcoming book on French-American alliance during the American Revolution. A former lecturer at Sciences Po in Paris, she has held fellowships at Mount Vernon, Monticello, and the American Philosophical Society, and serves as an advisor to museums, historical organizations, and documentary projects in the United States and Europe. She appears as a featured expert in Ken Burns’s PBS documentary series The American Revolution (2025). Learn more at www.irisderode.com.

Chuck Schwam

Executive Director, American Friends of Lafayette • National Order of Merit Recipient

Chuck Schwam has dedicated more than four decades to preserving and promoting Lafayette’s legacy in the United States and France. As Executive Director of the American Friends of Lafayette, he has led major commemorative initiatives, educational programs, and heritage projects surrounding the Marquis de Lafayette and the Franco-American alliance. He served as Chair of AFL’s Lafayette Grand Tour Bicentennial Committee and has helped coordinate hundreds of events across both nations. On June 10, 2026, Chuck was knighted by the French government and awarded the National Order of Merit in recognition of his contributions to strengthening Franco-American relations and preserving Lafayette’s legacy.

Read Full Biography

Charles Schwam works as an account executive by day and moonlights as an Executive Director by nights and weekends. Known to most as Chuck, he came to the greater Washington, DC area from Philadelphia to attend American University. For more than forty years, he has been a leader in his industry, managing national and local accounts while consistently ranking at the top in sales and new business development.

Chuck brings the same passion and discipline from his professional career to his involvement with The American Friends of Lafayette (AFL). After discovering the organization in 2009, he quickly became an active member and, in 2011, joined the Board of Governors as Treasurer. Over time, his role expanded to Executive Director, where he also serves as the organization’s primary event planner. From 2022–2025, Chuck served as Chair of the AFL’s Lafayette’s Grand Tour Bicentennial Committee, overseeing more than 40 committees composed of over 400 members across 24 states. During the 13-month reenactment of Lafayette’s historic Grand Tour, he coordinated and supported more than 350 events nationwide, attending many of them in person. These events and educational programs were designed to raise public awareness of General Lafayette’s legacy and France’s critical role in the American Revolution.

Chuck has also led major fundraising efforts, raising over half a million dollars to support the bicentennial and AFL initiatives, including the design, funding, and installation of statues honoring Lafayette and Rochambeau in Yorktown, Virginia.

An experienced event planner, Chuck has organized hundreds of commemorative events in both the United States and France, ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale public programs with thousands of attendees. He oversees AFL’s annual meetings, heritage travel excursions to France, and numerous historical and social events throughout the year. His speaking engagements have included the United States Capitol, the French Embassy, Federal Hall in New York City, the French Ambassador’s Residence in Washington, DC, Independence Hall, and the French Senate at the Luxembourg Palace. He has also been honored to speak at two naturalization ceremonies.

In addition, Chuck manages the AFL store and serves as publisher of the Gazette—an award-winning, 100+ page semiannual newsletter. He manages the historical interpreters at AFL events, as well as the organization’s annual book donation program for schools and public libraries.

On June 10th, 2026, Chuck was knighted by the government of France with the National Order of Merit.

Charlotte King

Co-Founder, Bacchus & Clio • Cultural Historian & Experience Curator

Originally from Wisconsin and now based in Burgundy, Charlotte King has spent her career bridging French history, culture, and hospitality. A licensed French National Guide, educator, and entrepreneur, she has led guests through some of France’s most significant museums, monuments, and heritage sites. As co-founder of Bacchus & Clio, she specializes in creating meaningful cultural experiences that go beyond traditional tourism. Her expertise, local knowledge, and long-standing relationships throughout France help provide guests with exceptional access and memorable encounters throughout the Lafayette: The Road to Revolution Journey.

Read Full Biography

Charlotte grew up in Wisconsin but moved to Burgundy, France, aged 17. She studied theatre, history and French and pursued her love of the French language to obtain a master’s degree.

Charlotte then began teaching at several universities in Paris, including the Sorbonne Nouvelle and Marne la Vallée.

She also secured a French National Guide card, allowing her to lead guided tours in French national museums and heritage sites. In 2016, Charlotte joined the wine team at Le Cordon Bleu as a translator and embarked on qualifications with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. Bacchus and Clio draws on Charlotte’s wealth of experience, capturing her passion for history and hospitality in elevated cultural experiences.

Franck Ramage

Co-Founder, Bacchus & Clio • Master Sommelier • Fine Wine & Hospitality Expert

Born and raised in France, Franck Ramage is a Master Sommelier whose career spans more than three decades in some of France’s most prestigious restaurants and hospitality institutions. Former Head of Wine at Le Cordon Bleu Paris, he has trained wine professionals from around the world while building an extensive network of chefs, winemakers, and cultural partners. As co-founder of Bacchus & Clio and KIRA Wine Consultants, Franck brings an insider’s perspective on French gastronomy, wine, and hospitality, enriching the journey with exclusive experiences and authentic connections throughout France.

Read Full Biography

Born and raised in France, Franck is a sommelier and fine wine insider who has worked at Michelin Starred restaurants and throughout Paris for more than 30 years.

In 1999, Franck became a sommelier professor, specializing in service techniques, enology, wine pairings and tastings. He joined Le Cordon Bleu as head of the wine department in 2011 to

create a program of intensive wine training for international students and was awarded the title of Master Sommelier by l’Union de la Sommellerie Française just one year later. Franck’s unrivalled knowledge, as well as his network of chefs, wine professionals and winemakers, gives Bacchus and Clio enviable access to the inner workings of Paris and the country’s vineyards.

Itinerary

April 3rd – 17th 2027 – 14 nights and 15 days celebrating Lafayette’s Road to Revolution.

Note: Optional add-on activities in Paris and other destinations will be available during free periods.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to refinement until all participants, private visits, and logistical arrangements have been fully confirmed. Any adjustments will be made with the quality and integrity of the journey in mind.

 

Paris - April 3rd - 6th, 2027
DAY 1 - Arrival in Paris

Saturday, April 3, 2027

Arrive in Paris and settle into one of the world’s most celebrated capitals. Private transfers from Charles de Gaulle Airport bring guests to the hotel before gathering for a welcome cocktail dînatoire and introduction to the journey ahead.

Highlights
✓ Private airport transfers
✓ Welcome cocktail dînatoire
✓ Meet fellow trip members
✓ Introduction to Lafayette: The Road to Revolution

Overnight
Example: Alfred Sommier, Paris

DAY 2 - Lafayette's Paris

Sunday, April 4, 2027

Explore the Parisian sites connected to Lafayette’s remarkable life and legacy via private bus. Visit monuments, plaques, and historic locations before dining aboard an evening Seine River cruise.

Highlights
✓ Lafayette monuments and memorials
✓ Historic Paris sites
✓ Lunch at Le Procope
✓ Seine dinner cruise

Overnight
Example: Alfred Sommier, Paris

DAY 3 - Les Invalides and La Grange-Bléneau

 Monday, April 5, 2027

Enjoy exclusive access to Château de la Grange-Bléneau, Lafayette’s beloved residence and a private estate not normally open to visitors. Groups of 10 (groups A + B) will rotate through La Grange in the morning and afternoon;the rest of the day is free, with optional activities available for sign up.

Highlights
✓ Les Invalides
✓ Exclusive access to La Grange-Bléneau
✓ Lafayette’s private estate
✓ Optional day excursion to Metz

Optional Experiences during your free time: 
Metz Day Trip 
Monnaie de Paris with special access
Pantheon visit
Invalides visit
Carnavalet (Paris History Museum) visit 

Overnight
Example: Alfred Sommier, Paris

DAY 4 - Les Invalides and La Grange-Bléneau Continues

Tuesday, April 6, 2027

Enjoy exclusive access to Château de la Grange-Bléneau, Lafayette’s beloved residence and a private estate not normally open to visitors. Groups of 10 (groups C + D) will rotate through La Grange in the morning and afternoon;the rest of the day is free, with optional activities available for sign up.

Highlights
✓ Exclusive acces to La Grange-Bléneau
✓ Les Invalides
✓ Exclusive French Senate dinner
✓ Optional day excursion to Metz

Optional Experiences during your free time: 
Metz Day Trip 
Monnaie de Paris with special access
Pantheon visit
Invalides visit
Carnavalet (Paris History Museum) visit

Overnight
Example: Alfred Sommier, Paris

The Grand Journey South - April 7th - 10th, 2027
DAY 5 - Château de Chastellux

Wednesday, April 7, 2027

Private guided visit of Château de Chastellux with Dr. Iris de Rode. Home to the Chastellux family for nearly a thousand years, the château carries a deep connection to America’s founding: François-Jean de Beauvoir, Marquis de Chastellux, served as a major general under Rochambeau alongside Lafayette during the American Revolution, became a close friend of George Washington, and later published a celebrated account of his travels through the young United States. Enjoy a private tour of the estate before lunch on site. Head to Le Puy en Velay to a light dinner. 

Highlights
✓ Private château access
✓ Catered lunch on the estate
✓ Expert lecture by Dr. Iris de Rode

Overnight
Example: Mercure Moulins Centre Hôtel de Paris, Moulins

DAY 6 - Château de Vollore

Thursday, April 8, 2027

Meet Lafayette descendant Virginie de Pusy Lafayette for an exclusive private visit of Château de Vollore, including the Lafayette Room and the family grounds. Enjoy a catered picnic on the estate, followed by a lecture bringing the family’s history to life. Dinner at hotel upon arrival.

Highlights
✓ Meet Lafayette descendants
✓ Private estate access
✓ The Lafayette Room
✓ Lecture by Dr. Iris de Rode

Overnight
Example: Hôtel Restaurant Le Regina, Le Puy-en-Velay

DAY 7 - Le Puy-en-Velay

Friday, April 9, 2027

Discover Le Puy-en-Velay, one of France’s most dramatic historic cities, built atop dramatic volcanic pinnacles. Enjoy a free morning to explore, or participate in optional activities. In the afternoon, join in a wreath-laying ceremony honoring Lafayette and a trolley tour through the medieval streets. Evening: dinner at the hotel, with wine.

Highlights
✓ UNESCO World Heritage cathedral
✓ Lafayette statue
✓ Historic city tour
✓ Commemorative wreath-laying ceremony

Optional Experiences during your free time: 
Verveine Liqueur Tasting 
Artisanal Denim: A Visit to a Local Jeans Maker

Overnight
Example: Hôtel Restaurant Le Regina, Le Puy-en-Velay

DAY 8 - Chavaniac-Lafayette

Saturday, April 10, 2027

Visit Château de Chavaniac-Lafayette, the birthplace of Lafayette and the emotional heart of the journey. The group will explore the ancestral home in two half-groups, sharing a catered lunch and wine between visits with members of the French Lafayette community. Return to Le Puy-en-Velay for dinner on your own. 

Highlights
✓ Lafayette’s birthplace
✓ Private historical visit
✓ French Lafayette Association gathering
✓ Catered picnic lunch

Overnight
Example: Hôtel Regina, Le Puy-en-Velay

Basque Country and Spain - April 11th - 13th, 2027
DAY 9 - South Through France

Sunday, April 11, 2027

Travel south through the changing landscapes of France, with a leisurely stop in Toulouse for a local lunch and guided walking tour of the pink city, before continuing on to the Basque Coast. Unwind that evening with a casual dinner at the hotel.

Highlights
✓ Scenic journey through the Massif Central
✓ Visit to Toulouse
✓ Basque Coast arrival

Overnight
Example: Bizipoz Hôtel de la Plage, Saint-Jean-de-Luz

DAY 10 - L'Hermione and Bayonne

Monday, April 12, 2027

Visit the legendary frigate L’Hermione, Lafayette’s famed flagship, at its dry dock in Anglet, before enjoying lunch and setting off to explore the historic streets of Bayonne on a guided walking tour.

Highlights
✓ Visit to L’Hermione, Lafayette’s flagship
✓ Guided walking tour of Bayonne
✓ Basque heritage and culture
✓ Expert historical commentary

Overnight
Example: Bizipoz Hôtel de la Plage, Saint-Jean-de-Luz

DAY 11 - Pasaia and San Sebastián

Tuesday, April 13, 2027

Stand at Pasaia, the very harbour where Lafayette boarded La Victoire in April 1777, and take part in a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony marking the 250th anniversary of his departure. Continue to San Sebastián for a local lunch and a guided walking tour before arriving in Bilbao for the evening dinner.

Highlights
✓ Wreath-laying ceremony marking Lafayette’s departure
✓ Historic port of Pasaia
✓ San Sebastián Old Town, lunch and guided walking tour

Overnight
Example: Hotel NH Collection Villa de Bilbao, Bilbao 

Versailles Grand Finale - April 14th - 17th, 2027
DAY 12 - Return to Versailles

Wednesday, April 14, 2027

Free morning in Bilbao, with an optional museum visit. Enjoy lunch in Bilbao before transferring to the airport for your flight to Paris. From there, a private coach transfer whisks you to Versailles, where you’ll settle into the iconic Waldorf Astoria. Dinner is free this evening, at the hotel or near the airport.

Highlights
✓ Flight from Bilbao to Paris
✓ Arrival in Versailles

Optional Experiences during your free time: 
Guggenheim Bilbao: Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes-Tour

Overnight
Example: Waldorf Astoria – Trianon Palace, Versailles

DAY 13 - Versailles After Hours

Thursday, April 15, 2027

Enjoy a day of exceptional access in Versailles: a morning visit to the Escadrille followed by private access to the Versailles municipal library (closed to the public), then lunch and a free afternoon to explore the town. As evening falls, step inside the Palace of Versailles for a private after-hours visit, closed to the public, before the day culminates in a gala celebration.

Highlights
✓ Versailles Library private access
✓ Exclusive after-hours Palace visit
✓  Rare archival viewing
✓ Gala dinner celebration

Overnight
Example: Waldorf Astoria – Trianon Palace, Versailles

DAY 14 - Picpus Cemetery

Friday, April 16, 2027

After a free morning, enjoy lunch at Lafayette’s, a restaurant set within his former Paris residence  — once the setting for the marquis’s grand 19th-century banquets, high-society gatherings, and secret meetings, now beautifully restored with period mouldings, 18th-century tapestry, and chandeliers. From there, pay tribute at Picpus Cemetery, his final resting place, where he lies buried with American soil from Bunker Hill placed beneath his head. A commemorative wreath-laying ceremony offers a fitting, moving moment before returning to the hotel, where the group gathers for a farewell cocktail dînatoire that evening.

Highlights
✓ Picpus Cemetery
✓ Lafayette’s tomb
✓ Commemorative ceremony
✓ Farewell cocktail dînatoire

Overnight
Example: Waldorf Astoria – Trianon Palace, Versailles

DAY 15 - Departure

Saturday, April 17, 2027

Bid farewell to France as private transfers take guests from Versailles to Charles de Gaulle Airport according to individual flight schedules.

Highlights
✓ Private airport transfers
✓ Individual departure assistance
✓ End of the Lafayette: The Road to Revolution Journey

Overnight
— End of Program —

The itinerary presented is subject to refinement until all program elements, speakers, private visits, and participant arrangements have been confirmed.

What's Included:

 Accommodations and Dining

✓ 14 nights in carefully selected 4- and 5- star hotels, including iconic properties in Paris, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Versailles.

✓ Daily breakfast throughout the journey.

✓ 10 hosted lunches and 10 dinners, including: estate picnics, and special receptions showcasing regional cuisine and local traditions.

✓ Farewell Gala Celebration in Versailles marking the conclusion of the Lafayette: The Road to Revolution Journey.

Exclusive Access

✓ Private estates, family residences, and historic archives rarely accessible to the public.

✓ Exclusive after-hours visit to the Palace of Versailles, reserved for the group.

✓ Commemorative ceremonies at significant Lafayette sites, including Pasaia and Picpus Cemetery.

✓ Expert lectures and guided visits led by renowned Lafayette scholar Dr. Iris de Rode, local historians, descendants, and distinguished guests.

Transportation

✓ Private luxury transportation throughout the program.

✓ Domestic flight from Bilbao to Paris included in the itinerary.

✓ Airport transfers upon arrival and departure.

✓ All hotel and activity transfers, allowing guests to travel comfortably throughout France and Spain.

 

 

Services

✓ All entrance fees and admissions included in the official program.

✓ Dedicated tour management and on-site assistance throughout the journey.

✓ Historical interpretation, guided visits, and educational programming at every destination.

✓ All taxes, service charges, and gratuities related to included group activities and services.

 

What's Not Included:

Air Travel

✘ International airfare to and from Paris.

✘ Airline seat selection fees.

✘ Baggage fees imposed by airlines.

✘ Airport services not included in the program.

Meals and Beverages

✘ Meals designated as “on your own”.

✘ Beverages beyond those included with group meals.

✘ Room service and minibar purchases.

✘ Personal dining expenses.

Personal Expenses

✘ Laundry and dry cleaning.

✘ Telephone, internet, and roaming charges.

✘ Optional activities not included in the itinerary.

✘ Individual purchases and souvenirs.

Insurance and Other

✘ Travel, medical, baggage, and trip cancellation insurance.

✘ Additional gratuities beyond those included in the program.

✘ Transportation not specified in the itinerary.

✘ Passport, visa, or other travel documentation fees.

Ready to Join?

 

You can book this trip in two quick steps :

Step 1: Complete the application form

Step 2: Choose your accommodation and pay your deposit

Optional: Plane Tickets and Travel Insurance

Step 1: Complete Application

 

Complete the form for yourself and any other members of your travel party:

Program Investment

A once-in-a-generation journey commemorating the 250th anniversary of Lafayette’s departure for America.

14 nights • 15 days
France & Spain

 Lafayette’s Family Estates: La Grange-Bléneau, Château de Vollore, Château de Chavaniac • Rare Archives • Lafayette Descendants • Versailles After-Hours • Château de Chastellux • Costumed Gala Dinner

Limited single accommodations available.

Please note: Participation is limited to preserve access to private estates, archives, and commemorative events.

 

Step 2: Choose Your Accommodation

Double Occupancy

Based on two guests sharing a room.

Payment Schedule

Initial Deposit: August 31, 2026: €6,720 for two people

Second Instalment: October 31, 2026: €8,960 for two people

Final Balance: January 31, 2027: €6,720 for two people

Note: If you are sharing a room but paying separately, send us an email: contact@bacchusandclio.com

 

Single Occupancy

Private room throughout the journey.

Payment Schedule

Initial Deposit: August 31, 2026: €4,200

Second Instalment: October 31, 2026: €5,600

Final Balance: January 31, 2027: €4,200

Limited availability.

 

Cancellation Policy at a Glance
Cancellation Date Refund Available
Date of Booking – October 31, 2026 Up to 50% refundable*
October 31, 2026 – January, 31 2027 Up to 25% refundable*
After January 31, 2027 No refund

*Less any non-refundable or irrecoverable fees already incurred.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment.

Full Terms and Conditions

The present General Terms and Conditions (hereafter the “GTC“) govern the terms under which KIRA (Bacchus and Clio), a French joint stock Company with a capital of 8,000.00 euros, registered at the PARIS company under the number 878 994 300, whose registered office is 26 Boulevard Saint-Marcel 75005 PARIS, France (hereafter “KIRA” or “B&C“), offers Services to Clients, including Tourist Packages.

KIRA is also registered at the Travel Agents Registry under number IM075220023 and has taken out a financial guarantee with the APST.

It also has a professional insurance policy, n°AR772877, with the GENERALI insurer. This policy is applicable worldwide and covers risks in compliance with the French Tourism Code. It covers its professional civil liability up to 10,000,000.00 euros. 

Pricing Payment Terms

This program is booked under a three-payment schedule, with an initial deposit required at the time of reservation, a second installment due at an interim date, and the final balance payable no later than forty-five (45) days prior to departure.

  • €11,200 per person for double occupancy
  • Additional €2,800 per person for single occupancy

At the time of booking, an initial deposit is required to confirm the reservation. A second installment will be due at an agreed interim date, with the final balance payable no later than forty-five (45) days prior to departure. Reservations are confirmed only upon receipt of each scheduled payment.

The payment schedule is as follows:

  • August 31, 2026 – Initial deposit due | Double Occupancy: €6,720 for two people | Single Occupancy: €4,200 per person
  • October 31, 2026 – Second installment due | Double Occupancy: €8,960 for two people | Single Occupancy: €5,600 euros per person
  • January 31, 2027 – Final balance due | Double Occupancy: €6,720 for two people | Single Occupancy: €4,200 per person

All prices are quoted in euros (€) and are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Tour Cancellation and Alterations

The Bacchus and Clio Travel Company and The America Friends of Lafayette reserve the right to cancel this trip if a minimum number of participants is not reached. In that eventuality, any payments made to the Bacchus and Clio Travel Company for this tour before the cancellation penalties dates begin will be refunded without penalty less non-refundable fees (credit card fees, hotel deposits, etc)  and further obligation on the part of the Bacchus and Clio Travel Company or The America Friends of Lafayette.

The Bacchus and Clio Travel Company and the America Friends of Lafayette reserve the right to cancel the program if the tour cannot be conducted as outlined. They also reserve the right to make minor alterations that do not significantly affect the tour’s content.

Cancellation Policy – Guest(s)

Due to contractual obligations with hotels, transportation providers, guides, and other suppliers, this trip is subject to strict cancellation conditions.

All reservations follow a three-payment schedule, with the final balance payable no later than forty-five (45) days prior to departure.

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email and are effective on the date received.

Cancellation fees are assessed per person and apply as follows:

  • From the date of booking up to October 31, 2026:
    → 50% of the total trip price is non-refundable

    → The remaining 50% is refundable, less any non-refundable or irrecoverable fees (including but not limited to credit card fees, bank fees, and supplier penalties already incurred).
  • Between October 31, 2026 and January 31st, 2027:
    → 25% of the total trip price may be refunded, less non-refundable or irrecoverable fees.
  • After January 31st, 2027: 
    → No refund will be issued.

If a replacement guest is found to take the cancelled place, Bacchus and Clio may, at its sole discretion, refund the recoverable amounts, less non-refundable fees and administrative costs.

Cancellation charges also apply to all pre-purchased services, including but not limited to room upgrades, transfers, special events, and optional activities.

Once travel has commenced, no refunds will be issued for unused services or portions of the tour.

Our Responsibility

The Bacchus and Clio Travel Company is your representative in securing the requested arrangements during your tour in France. The Bacchus and Clio Travel Company, its agents, and its employees act only as agents for the passenger regarding travel by road, or by mode of transportation or local conveyance within France and assume no liability for personal injury, property damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity incurred by any person arising out of the negligence of an air carrier, hotel or person engaged in conveying the passenger, providing rental cars, or rendering any of the services or accommodation being offered during these tours; nor shall the Bacchus and Clio Travel Company be responsible for any injuries, death, damages, loss or delay in any means of transportation or because of any event beyond The Bacchus and Clio Travel Company’s actual control. The passenger must bear any such losses or expenses. The right is reserved to substitute hotels of similar category or change schedules without prior notice should circumstances require. In the event of a change of itinerary necessitated by factors or conditions beyond the actual control of the Bacchus and Clio Travel Company, such as strikes, political and social unrest, labor problems, climatic aberrations, or any act of God, no refund can be made, nor will credit be given, provided that in the event of such change, the Bacchus and Clio Travel Company shall offer accommodations and services of comparable quality and standards as outlined in the itinerary.

We have provided the contact details of a recommended air and travel insurance agent. We strongly advise utilizing their services to ensure coverage for any unforeseen issues that may arise.

Changes and Modifications

A service charge per booking may apply for each change made after the initial booking request has been approved by you and the service confirmed by the Bacchus and Clio travel company with the supplier. Airlines and other vendors may assess cancellation fees for cancellations, which will be passed on to you. In some cases, suppliers of services may provide no refund, such as for accommodation. Once travel has commenced, any changes or cancellations are at your expense. Information will be given on request at the time of booking.

 

Optional: Plane Tickets and Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to ensure peace of mind during your trip. We partner with a trusted provider, Chad Morse with Cap Prive, who not only offers comprehensive travel insurance but can also assist with booking plane tickets. However, you are welcome to arrange coverage and travel plans through your own agent or preferred provider.

Chad Morse | CEO & Founder | Cap Prive

chad@capprive.com

What Happens Next?

 

Within 48 Hours

Your reservation will be reviewed and confirmed by our team. You’ll receive a welcome email outlining the next steps and important information about the journey.

Before Departure

You’ll receive a comprehensive pre-departure package, including your final itinerary, hotel information, arrival and departure details, packing recommendations, important travel information, and all program documents required for the journey.

Throughout the Process

Our team remains available to assist with dietary requirements, special requests, and any questions leading up to departure.

contact@bacchusandclio.com

Speak With Our Team

Have questions about the itinerary, accommodations, payment schedule, or whether this journey is right for you?

Arrange a complimentary consultation with a member of our team using the calendar below. We’ll be happy to discuss the program, answer your questions, and help you determine if this experience is the right fit.

Prefer email?
contact@bacchusandclio.com