Explore the vineyard-lined valleys along the Rhone in the famous wine producing region of Burgundy and discover the ancient history of Provence in the South of France.
Visit the gastronomic capital of Lyon which made its wealth from silk making in the Middle Ages before cruising along the Rhone to Beaune, Burgundy's wine capital. See the recognisable Hotel Dieu with its multi-coloured tiled roof and enjoy a sample of the fine wines at a wine tasting. Discover the historic highlights of Vienne and the vine-covered hills at Tournon which produce the famous Hermitage wine.
See the Roman history at Arles in the heart of Provence including the well-preserved amphitheatre and the Pont du Gard aqueduct, and visit the impressive Pope's Palace in Avignon where this cruise comes to an end.
RT176 Operated by Riviera Travel
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Highlights of Burgundy and Provence Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Lyon (France)
Fly to Lyon, Marseille or Montpellier, or travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras changing trains at Lille to the TGV to Lyon, and transfer to the ship. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard your five-star floating hotel.
Day 2 - Lyon
The Rhone Valley was the route of choice for many invading armies since ancient times, and Julius Caesar made Lyon his capital, as well as it being the birthplace of Emperor Claudis, conqueror of Britain. Lyon made its wealth from silk making from the Middle Ages which funded the renaissance buildings, churches and one of the most charming town squares. Lyon is also known as France's gastronomic capital. Enjoy a guided tour of the city before cruising upstream in the afternoon catching the first glimpse of the Beaujolais hills.
Day 3 - Chalon - Beaune
Moor in Chalon, gateway to Burgundy. Enjoy a morning tour to picturesque villages including Meursault, Volnay and Pommard, the source of some of the finest wines. Nearby is medieval Beaune, Burgundy's wine capital, which is recognisable from the Hotel Dieu which was built as a hospital and has a multi-coloured tiled roof. Take a tour of the traditional wine cellars and enjoy wine tasting before returning to the ship for lunch.
Day 4 - Vienne - Tournon
Vienne is an ancient stronghold which was established under Julius Caesar. Walk round the historic highlights before cruising through the picturesque Rhone valley to Tournon, where vine-covered hillsides produce the famous Hermitage wine.
Day 5 - Ardeche Gorges
See the picturesque landscape of the Alps and cruise past terracotta-roofed houses as you reach the South of France. After lunch explore the Ardeche Gorges where steep cliffs make a thousand feet sheer drop into the river below. Caves, grottoes and natural sculptures can be seen at every bend of the road. Return to the ship in Viviers, a medieval town built around its Romanesque Cathedral.
Day 6 - Arles
Arles, in the heart of the Provence region, became the Roman road to Spain as it could be accessed by sea ships. See the Roman remains on a guided tour including the magnificent well-preserved amphitheatre and the Forum where Constantine was installed as Emperor. After lunch visit the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, one of the wonders of the ancient world.
Day 7 - Avignon
The Pope's court was exiled from Rome to Avignon, which brought prosperity to the area. Discover historic Avignon on a guided tour through the alleys. The Pontiff commissioned grand buildings and decorated churches which are still well preserved. The most impressive building is the Pope's Palace. Explore at leisure this afternoon. Captain's dinner this evening.
Day 8 - Avignon - UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flights to the UK, or transfer to Avignon train station for the TGV to Lille for the connecting Eurostar to the UK.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.