Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Essence of Provence & Burgundy cruise. (D)

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-Sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which we will discover on our 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 iconic mosaic-tiled roof of the Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune. 

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. (B,L,D)

Today we have a choice of a number of excursions as we explore the cities of Tournus and Macon. We’ll be accompanied by an on-site guide through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert.

Or some may choose 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.

Some can return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon

Or,  join me on guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon. (B,L,D)

We can take a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, and historical sites. Or we can 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.

There’s also the Royal Monastery of Brou, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 16th century!

We’ll all 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. (B,L,D)

Lyon, not Paris is the culinary capitol of France!

We will start in Fourvière Hill, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière and 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.”

Some can get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind.

There’s also a Food Tour “Vieux Lyon” during which we’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights.

For those wishing to be more active than eating, 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. (B,L,D)

We 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 or join an active walk and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers.

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.

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.  (B,L,D)

Some will 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.

Alternatively, we can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades! (Guess which one I want to do?) 

Later in the day, we will rejoin the ship in Arles, considered one of the most beautiful cities in France.

We can check out the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater, visit the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, or take some time to focus on wellness with a guided bike tour through town. (B,L,D)

Bid farewell to Arles and prepare for your return flight home. (B)

B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.