South of France River Cruise

On arrival into Paris be met and transferred* from the airport to your centrally located hotel.
Overnight Special Stay: Paris

Board the ultra-fast TGV train for your journey to Dijon. On arrival transfer to Chalon-sur-Saône where a warm welcome awaits as you board your luxurious Scenic ‘Space-Ship’.

This morning visit Beaune for an included sightseeing tour culminating in your visit to Les Hospices de Beaune. SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) located in the ancient church of the Cordeliers, visit Burgundy’s historic Marché aux Vins Cellars for a tasting; or (2) in the region considered the mustard capital of the world, enjoy a tasting at one of the regions mustard factories.

In the heart of southern Burgundy, we’ll tour the magnificent Château de Cormatin, boasting beautiful gardens and water features with the château itself accessible via a drawbridge across its moat. Sample French truffles in nearby villages before our return to Tournus. This afternoon we’ll sail the Rhône River onto Mâcon.

SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) retrace the characteristics of traditional life of the region on your visit to the fabulous Bresse Museum; or (2) wine tasting in the Beaujolais region; or (3) visit Cluny, a village built around the great Benedictine Abbey, a lovely example of Romanesque architecture.

Enjoy your included tour of Lyon this morning, the gastronomic heart of France! SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) visit a traditional silk factory today to discover Lyon’s historic significance as an area for the production and weaving of silk; or (2) visit the medieval village of Pérouges; or (3) visit the renowned patisserie school Ecole Bouillet.

Get back to nature and experience the charm of yesteryear aboard an historic steam train journey through picturesque terrain via stone tunnels and forested mountains spilling into valley streams. On your return to Tournon this afternoon enjoy an included tour. SCENIC SUNDOWNERS Enjoy an afternoon cocktail on the terrace of the historic Castle of Tournon overlooking the Rhône!

SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) visit the spectacular wine cave within Tournon Castle for a tasting; or (2) enjoy a walking tour of the renowned wine growing centre of Tain l’Hermitage including a tasting at Valrhona Chocolates. This afternoon relax on board as you cruise this famous wine-growing region to Viviers.

Enjoy a walking tour of Viviers including an organ recital. SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) tour the world’s nougat capital, Montélimar, including nougat tasting and entry to the Aviation Museum; or (2) a coach tour of the Ardèche National Park; or (3) a master class in French cuisine.

The largest wine region in the southern Rhône, tour Châteauneuf-du-Pape including a tasting at a vineyard. Afternoon cruising to Avignon. SCENIC ENRICH Be treated to an unforgettable experience at the prestigious Palais-des-Papes. Be invited for a guided tour before entering a private room in the palace for an exclusive gala dinner and classical concert.

SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) visit the villages of the Luberon region including Gordes and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse; or (2) take an excursion to Uzès, including a visit to Pont du Gard; or (3) ‘Shop with a Chef’ for a guided visit to a local food market including regional tastings. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure in Avignon.

Today discover the spectacular La Camargue National Park as the beauty and wonder of this region unfolds. SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) visit the wild beauty of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and the 60 hectare Parc Ornithologique; or (2) tour the Salins of the Petite Camargue before visiting the picturesque village of Aigues-Mortes. Why not relax on the Sun Deck as we enjoy an afternoon of roundtrip cruising from Tarascon towards the open waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) tour Arles, a city that has inspired many artists; or (2) visit an olive farm and the hilltop village of Les Baux; or (3) visit Saint-Rémy including Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery where Van Gogh was held for a year.

After breakfast this morning, disembark your Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ and transfer* to Nice Airport for your onward or homebound flight. (Please book flights to depart after 3pm).

*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For guests who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.