An exclusive wine & food journey with
Rhône Valley to Provence
May 18 - 25, 2025
SOLD OUT
8-24
Guests
8 / 7
Days / Nights
14
Meals
Experience the diverse landscapes, medieval villages, and gastronomic delights of the South of France during this 8-day journey through the legendary Rhône Valley. Highlights of the trip include the historic cities of Lyon, Vienne, and Avignon where Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture, and awe-inspiring castles and cathedrals are surrounded by rolling vineyards and pastoral countryside.
Visit
family-run estates and artisan producers on an epicurean journey through the Valley of Gastronomy
Explore
the historic and picturesque towns of Lyon, Vienne, and Avignon on the banks of the Rhône River
Discover
the range of local wines and taste vintages from the Côtes-du-Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Day 1
Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Land in the Lyon Airport where a private driver will be waiting in the Arrivals area to greet you and transport you to our accommodations ideally located in Lyon city center. Take time to get settled, relax, and explore the surrounding area. We’ll kick things off this evening, gathering for an aperitif and introductions followed by a Welcome Dinner showcasing the flavors of the region.
Day 2
Lyon
After breakfast, join a local guide for a tour of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the renowned covered market of Lyon housing over 50 vendors, including cheesemongers, bakers, butchers, and specialty shops. Our tour will be followed by lunch at a local bouchon— a traditional Lyonnais restaurant serving hearty, rustic cuisine typical of the region. The afternoon is open for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city at your own pace. Those interested can join our Travel Director for a stroll through the cobblestone lanes and medieval passageways of historic Vieux Lyon.
Day 3
Northern Cote du Rhone
This morning, we’ll check out after breakfast and journey south along the Rhône River. Our first stop will be at a family-run winery producing wines across the Côte Rôtie and Condrieu appellations. After a tour of the facilities and a tasting of their wines, we will make our way to a local restaurant for a lunch featuring delicious traditional dishes. This afternoon, visit a cellar owned by another local family and sample wines from their various estates before continuing south to our accommodations in the small town of Tain l’Hermitage, known for its terraced vineyards, local wines, and Valrhona chocolate. The evening will be open to explore our new surroundings.
Day 4
Tain l’Hermitage
We’ll have a leisurely start to the day, meeting late morning for a short walk to a charming local shop and wine bar offering tastes of exceptional local wines. Afterward, savor a delicious lunch at a favorite local restaurant followed by a winery tour and tasting of the iconic northern Rhône Valley wines at a nearby cellar where we’ll learn about their soil and cultivation and production methods. The remainder of the day will be free to wander the area at your own pace, perhaps taking a stroll across the river to the village of Tournon-sur-Rhône known for its medieval castle dating back as early as the 10th century.
Day 5
Southern Rhône to Provence
Check out mid-morning as we make our way to the south of France. Our first stop will be at a local estate for a private wine tasting and lunch at the estate's bistro, featuring seasonal French cuisine made from fresh, high-quality local produce. Continue to another small family-run estate for a tour of the vineyards and cellar and a tasting of their wines. The last leg of today’s journey will be to the ancient walled city of Avignon where we’ll check into our accommodations and have free time to relax and begin to acquaint ourselves with this charming medieval city.
Day 6
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Today we explore the southern part of the Rhône Valley, visiting the renowned appellation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (the “pope’s new castle”) and the village of the same name. We’ll experience vineyards and historic aging cellars, learn about the history and terroir, and enjoy a private tasting of premium red and white wines. After lunch, we'll have some free time to explore the town before continuing to a winery in the Vacqueyras appellation. Return to Avignon afterward for an open evening.
Day 7
Avignon
On our last day in Provence, we’ll explore the city of Avignon, which served as the seat of the Catholic popes in the 14th century. Join a knowledgeable local guide for a morning walking tour that includes the massive Pope’s Palace and the 12th-century Pont d’Avignon bridge. Afterward, enjoy free time to check out the local cafes, shops, and leafy squares. This evening, we’ll gather for a festive farewell dinner featuring the unforgettable foods and wines of the region.
DAY 1
Arrival to Provence
Today we’ll make our way southeast through the countryside to the fabled region of Provence, traveling by private transfer from from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence, known as “the city of a thousand fountains” for its iconic fountains spread throughout the historic city center. We'll check-in to our accommodations and start to get acquainted with the city during a guided walking tour. This evening, gather for a wine-paired dinner in the city center, savoring the flavors of the region.
DAY 2
Aix en Provence
Enjoy the offerings in Aix-en-Provence at your own pace today. Perhaps take a stroll through one of Aix’s markets, filled with artisanal cheeses, fragrant herbs, and local specialties, or wander the elegant streets, such as Cours Mirabeau, where you'll find charming boutiques, historic fountains, and lively cafés.
As part of the day, roll up your sleeves for a cooking class led by a local chef who will guide you through creating traditional Provençal dishes using seasonal ingredients. Learn the secrets of classic recipes and enjoy the fruits of your labor over a leisurely meal paired with regional wines.
DAY 3
Cassis
This morning, we’ll head south to the picturesque coastal village of Cassis. Our first stop will be a winery in the renowned Cassis appellation for a tour of the cellars and tasting of the local wines. Known predominantly for its white wines, the Cassis appellation was one of the first AOCs to be created in France in 1936, along with Sauternes and Châteauneuf du Pape. After the visit, we'll continue into town to explore the charming streets and enjoy a lunch of regional Provençal flavors.
This afternoon, embark on a boat cruise and experience the towering limestone cliffs and clear azure waters of Calanques National Park. The evening is open to relax and check out one of the many local restaurant choices.
Accommodations
Hôtel Carlton Lyon
Located in a historic building with an impressive Haussmann façade, our hotel is ideally located in the heart of Lyon city center. The property boasts a 24h front desk, a lounge bar, a wellness center, and complimentary WiFi. The opulent rooms are soundproofed, have air conditioning and offer tea/coffee making facilities and bathrooms with bathrobes, slippers, toiletries and a hairdryer.
Fac & Spera Hôtel
This hotel is located in the center of Tain l’Hermitage on the banks of the Rhône River. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, outdoor pool (seasonal), spa, fitness center, terrace, and complimentary WiFi. Rooms offer air conditioning, tea/coffee maker, and bathrooms with toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and hairdryer.
Hôtel De Cambis
Conveniently situated in the heart of the Avignon city center, Hôtel De Cambis offers an ideal base for exploring this ancient walled city and the surrounding wine region. The hotel offers a restaurant, wine bar, and complimentary WiFi. Rooms have air conditioning, tea/coffee maker, and bathrooms with hairdryer and toiletries.
Boutique Hotel Cezanne (Provence Extension)
Nestled in the picturesque region of Provence, Boutique Hotel Cezanne stands as a testament to refined luxury and artistic inspiration. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends classic elegance with contemporary flair.
Each room is a sanctuary of tranquility, featuring plush bedding, carefully selected furnishings, and an array of amenities that cater to the needs of discerning travelers. Guests can expect amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee and tea-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.), which can leave some areas inaccessible. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. If your mobility is limited in any way, or if you have questions, please contact our Guest Services team at guestservices@experi.com.
Note: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/terms.
Included
- Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, and transportation
- Gratuities for travel director, local guides, drivers, porters, and included meals
- Full guiding services of a dedicated Travel Director
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to/from host cities
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Rates*
Classic: $7,695
Deluxe: $8,095
Jr. Suite: $8,595
Single Occupancy: $8,895
SOLD OUT
Extension Rates*
Classic: $3,495
Single Occupancy: $4,295
*Rates are per person, double occupancy in US Dollars.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Learn more about travel insurance and how it can help you prepare for the unexpected at https://experi.com/travelinsurance/
Travel Terms & Conditions
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