Colors of Provence (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2024 Start Arles, End Lyon

Begin your journey in the enchanting city of Arles. Board your cruise and settle in as the ship moors overnight. In the evening, you'll have the opportunity to meet your fellow passengers and get acquainted with the crew. Dinner will be served on board.

Spend the day exploring Arles, one of the most beautiful cities in France. Visit the Saint Paul de Mausole Asylum, where Vincent van Gogh once lived and painted his famous works. Then, head to the Carrières de Lumières for a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history. Venture to the medieval hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence and visit an olive farm to learn about Provençal traditions. In the afternoon, join a walking tour of Arles to see the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater, or take a guided bike tour to the Roman ruins.

Arrive in Avignon, the 'City of Popes', and discover its rich history on a guided walking tour. Visit the Palais des Papes, the equivalent of today's Vatican, and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct, or sample regional specialties at three venues around Avignon. Later, visit a winery in the famed Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine region for a private tour and a tasting of the vineyard's specialty wines.

Today, join a local farmer and his dog in search of the highly prized 'Black Diamond', truffles. Later, enjoy a delightful pairing of red wine and chocolate at the 15th-century Le Château de Tournon, located on the banks of the Rhône, in the heart of town.

Walk through the steep vineyards of Tain-l’Hermitage and learn about the history and techniques of winemaking in this area. After the guided tour, join your host for a tasting of the Hermitage wines for which this region is celebrated. Alternatively, take an exclusive private train ride past the magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux, or enjoy a hike through the vineyards followed by a visit to a local winery.

Start the day in Vienne, situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. Take a walking tour to see the well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, and St. Pierre Abbey. For the more active, take a guided bike tour or a guided hike to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. Continue on to Lyon and take a guided walk through the St. Jean district or visit the city's famed indoor food market.

Enjoy free time in Lyon or travel to the Beaujolais wine region, known as the 'land of the golden stones'. While there, indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard.

Your unforgettable journey through the heart of France comes to an end. Disembark your cruise in Lyon and bid farewell to your fellow passengers. Breakfast will be served on board.