Idyllic Rhône

Arrive in Lyon where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Set on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is renowned as the gastronomic heart of France.

Freechoice: Walk Lyon’s hidden traboules, then continue to Notre Dame Basilica, which offers fabulous views across the city or join a guided bike ride to Lyon’s Botanical Gardens and Zoo. Alternatively, learn about Lyon’s rich heritage in silk production, that dates back almost five centuries, during a silk painting workshop, or walk the cobblestone paths in the medieval hilltop town of Pérouges.

This afternoon set sail for Mâcon. Watch the scenery float by from the sun deck or Panorama Lounge, relax in the Wellness centre or perhaps take a lesson in French cookery in Scenic Culinaire.

Freechoice: Travel to the ‘Golden Stone’ region of Beaujolais and enjoy a tasting of the region’s wines. Or, explore charming Cluny, built around the great Benedictine Abbey. Alternatively, visit Château de Cormatin, where you can admire the castles gilded rooms, surrounding moat and water features, as well as the perfectly manicured gardens.

Freechoice: Take a walking tour in Vienne including a visit to the Roman amphitheatre and uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. Or, for the more active, take in the picturesque landscapes of this region on a guided cycling tour of Vienne and neighbouring villages where you will see an abundance of evidence of the city’s glory days as a Roman city.

Freechoice: This morning, enjoy a walking tour of the ancient town of Viviers, nestled between hill and river, and visit its imposing cathedral. Alternatively, visit the beautiful provincial town of Grignan for a guided tour and a visit to the Château, before enjoying some time at leisure to explore on your own or you may choose to visit a Truffle Nursery and learn how Truffles are produced as well as their many uses.

Scenic Culinaire will be hosting a lesson in French cuisine this afternoon.

Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at the market then cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire (Please note: Most markets in France do not open on a Monday. If your visit falls on a Monday your on board chef will explain local produce in Scenic Culinaire and provide an extended Scenic Culinaire cooking demonstration.), or explore Avignon’s architectural wonder, the Pope’s Palace, where you will see the impressive architecture and grand halls that we once home to several popes. Alternatively, take an excursion to Pont du Gard, the impressive ancient Roman aqueduct, or sample the celebrated wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape at a Côtes du Rhône vineyard.

This afternoon enjoy free time to explore on your own.

Enrich
After the doors close to the general public at Avignon’s prestigious Palais des Papes, you’ll be invited for an exclusive concert inside this elegant 14th century palace.

Freechoice: Visit Les Baux, surrounded by incredible rock formations, picturesque olive groves and vineyards, and drop into a local olive farm to enjoy a tasting of its produce or visit the city of Arles, home to many impressive Roman ruins including the Arles Arena, which you will visit on your guided tour. Here you will also see why Arles has inspired many of the world’s greatest artists with its glorious landscapes. Alternatively, stay on board for a painting class and learn about the region’s artistic heritage.

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Nice airport for your onward journey.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.