Day 1 -PORT OF DIJON – EMBARKATION
Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Essence of Provence & Burgundy cruise.
Day 2 – CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE – TOURNUS, FRANCE
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-Sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. Alternatively, choose an excursion in Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or sample the region’s famous white Mâconnais wines. Alternatively, pedal from Chalon-Sur- Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour.
Day 3 – TOURNUS – MÂCON, FRANCE
Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Macon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon.
Day 4 – MÂCON – VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-SAÔNE – FRANCE
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Return to the ship and head to the Sun Deck to enjoy a light lunch and the passing landscapes on the way to Villefranche-sur-Saône. For those traveling by ship, enjoy a tasting of Beaujolais wines while sailing towards your next stop.
Day 5 – LYON – VIENNE, FRANCE
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. If you’re a self-described foodie, our Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic cruise to Vienne, which boasts a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. There you can enjoy a guided walking tour around the city. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet.
Day 6 – VIVIERS, FRANCE
Take your coffee on your balcony or the Sun Deck as you cruise to Viviers, a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th and 18th century monuments. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle-friendly city. Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. Or, go on a scenic hike and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers. Later, stroll through the city accompanied by a guide in Renaissance attire as former “residents” in period costumes reenact events and legends of centuries gone by. This special historical tour is sure to bring a smile to your lips – or perhaps send shivers down your spine!
Day 7 – AVIGNON – ARLES, FRANCE
Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center 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 on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternately, you can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. Later in the day, rejoin the ship in Arles, considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Let your experienced guide lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater; or take a guided bike tour to the Roman ruins. If you wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. Or take some time to focus on wellness with a guided bike tour through town.
Day 8 – ARLES – DISEMBARKATION
Bid farewell to Arles and prepare for your return flight home.
