Lyndonius

My partner are over from Australia and holidaying in UK. We are travelling to France for a week. we both love our big reds so planning we will hire a car after two nights in Paris, drive to Bordeaux, spend 3 or four nights in Bordeaux then drive back for the train trip to London. We love the idea of setting up somewhere cosy and between the car and hiring bikes spend 3/4 nights in the area sampling food, cheese and wine. I am researching options and "must do's" but would love some advise from seasoned travellers to the area or locals. tips and hints welcome as well as advise on alternate possibilities.

ANUJ

I'd consider using the high speed TGV line connecting Paris and Bordeaux (~3 hours journey now), and renting the car in Bordeaux itself for your travels around the area.

StCirq

Unless you are going to break up the drives with an overnight stop or two, I also would take the TGV both ways.

Lyndonius

Thanks for that advice. we will have a look at that one. Might be a much better idea. Any thoughts on places to stay outside of the major city. We would like to be able to cycle around some vineyards and visit some cellar doors. We have chosen this are of France as we love red wines

StCirq

There are great red wines in many parts of France, but if it's Bordeaux you want to visit, just be aware that the countryside (vineyard areas) outside the city are far from the prettiest in France and that for any big-name châteaux you will likely need a reservation. You can visit the website of the Maison du Vin in Bordeaux for ideas on how to get around wine country and visit the châteaux.

If you do decide to take the TGV, be sure to buy your tickets in advance (up to 92 days out from your day(s) of travel) to get the best prices.

fuzzbucket

Don't bother hiring a car in Paris. The garage and parking fees are outrageous, and if you take the toll roads, they can be expensive.

Take the train directly to Lyon, and if you feel the need to hire a car, you can reserve one in advance at the station.

theotherside

As mentioned, take the tgv to Bordeaux. We were there last year and really enjoyed the city. The trams make transport a piece of cake. The TIC in the city centre has great day tours of wineries if thats your thing. If you are after ideas on cycling, type cycling bordeaux vineyards in google for ideas.

StCirq mentioned there are many areas with red wines, including the beaujolais region near Lyon, although I think they are mostly a light red. Lyon is the food capital of France, so that would satisfy your food requirements aswell.
The best red I have had was a Bordeaux red purchased from a supermarket in the Pyrenees for 10 euro, (unlike aussie supermarkets which do not sell alcohol at all).
A few suggestions to think about!

Lyndonius

Thank you everyone. We have booked the train and will stay in Bordeaux one night before heading out to maybe Saint-Emilio. Sounds like it might not be the picturesque vision we had but should still be fun. Thanks for all the tips.

Robert2016

For picturesque, head a little further south to the Pays Basque. Ainhoa is just under a 3-hour drive. Between there and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port you'll find the vineyards of the Irouléguy wine region, as well as great cuisine.

Restaurants Auberge Basque, Les Pyrénées and Art'Zain, just to get you started.