French Châteaux, with the Loire Valley, the Dordogne, and A Rhône River Cruise

Travel to the Beaujolais wine region, known as the Pays des Pierres Dorées, or ’Land of Golden Stones’. Indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard.

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Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne, whose Roman past can be seen in its marvellously preserved ruins. Follow the footsteps of ancient Romans during a walking tour and see the well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build. St. Pierre Abbey is one of France’s oldest surviving churches and is now an Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, take a tour of the majestic Jardin de Plantes with your Botanical Guide. For those wishing to be more active, you can instead take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route.

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This morning, visit Le Jardin Zen d’Erik Borja Garden, a Japanese and Mediterranean-inspired garden, designed according to the principles of feng shui. Return to the ship for lunch before spending the afternoon sailing towards Avignon. Enjoy a special lecture by our Botanical Guide on board the ship or simply relax and watch the world sail by.

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A choice of excursions awaits today, depending on your interests. You may like to embark on a full-day visit to see three fascinating gardens, including l’Abbaye Saint Andre, whose collection of old roses and Mediterranean natives are set among the remains of a Romanesque-style church. Next, visit Château de Brantes, where we see a garden inspired by Tuscany. Close by, Jardin des Confines impresses with its beautiful perennial garden. Alternatively, take a morning walking tour of Avignon, aptly named the ’City of Popes’. This was the centre of the Catholic Church in the 14th century, when its ’Palais des Papes’ was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Discover the history of Avignon during a guided walking tour that includes a stop at the Papal Palace, as well as the well-preserved medieval walls that surround the historic centre of town. Visit three venues around Avignon to taste their regional specialties, including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon visit to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan, where we go in search of the highly prized ’Black Diamond’ truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion.

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Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles was formerly a Roman centre of trade with an enchanting history. Today you may choose to visit two remarkable gardens, including La Louve, created by Hermes designer Nicole de Vesian, and the gardens of Château Val Joanis, which were created to provide fruit and vegetables for the vineyard. Alternatively, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the ‘old village’, its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound and history, projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry, set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Vincent van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. Later in the day, join a guided walking tour, visiting the Roman ruins of Arles, such as its Roman Amphitheatre and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture.

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Bid farewell to Arles today, as we transfer to Marseille in preparation for your flight home.

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