An exclusive wine & food river journey with
The Rhône River
April 28 - May 5, 2024
Contact us for Availability
10 +
Group Size
8 / 7
Days / Nights
20
Meals
Experience the picturesque landscapes and gastronomic delights of the South of France during this 8-day journey on the Rhône River, an important waterway and trade route since ancient times. Highlights of the trip include the cities of Lyon, Vienne, and Avignon — just to name a few — where Roman ruins and awe-inspiring castles and cathedrals are surrounded by rolling vineyards and pastoral countryside.
Visit
charming hilltop villages and the ancient French cities of Avignon and Arles
Explore
the Rhône river valley with expert guides, enjoying behind-the-scenes access
Taste
quintessential French delicacies and sip local wines from these famed regions
Day 1
Lyon
Arrive in Lyon where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board your River ship.
Day 2
Lyon
Set on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is renowned as the gastronomic heart of France. Spend the morning walking 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 center, or perhaps take a lesson in French cooking in Scenic Culinaire.
Day 3
Mâcon
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 castle's gilded rooms, surrounding moat and water features, as well as the perfectly manicured gardens.
Day 4
Vienne
Enjoy a guided walking tour in Vienne including a visit to the Roman amphitheater and uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. Or, for a more active approach, take in the picturesque landscapes of this region on a guided cycling tour of Vienne and neighboring villages where you will catch a glimpse of the city’s glory days as a Roman city.
Day 5
Viviers
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 to explore on your own. You may also choose to visit a truffle nursery and learn how truffles are produced as well as their many uses.
Day 6
Avignon
Shop with a Chef at the market then cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire, or explore Avignon’s architectural wonder, the Pope’s Palace, where you will see the impressive architecture and grand halls that were 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.
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.
Day 7
Avignon - Tarascon
Visit Les Baux, surrounded by incredible rock formations and picturesque olive groves and vineyards. 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.
Day 8
Arles
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Nice airport for your onward journey.
DAY 1 Pre-trip
Welcome to Lyon
Begin your extraordinary wine adventure upon arrival at Lyon Airport, where you will be transferred to the charming Fourviere Hotel in Lyon. Settle into your elegant accommodations and take some time to explore the city before meeting your fellow wine enthusiasts at a welcome dinner. Enjoy a sumptuous meal paired with a selection of carefully curated local wines, as you discuss the exciting days ahead and share your passion for fine wine. Tonight, raise a glass to the beginning of a memorable experience.
Day 2 Pre-trip
Discovering Beaujolais
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a journey to the picturesque Beaujolais wine region. Over the next three days, you will have the opportunity to explore six distinguished family-run estates and taste the 10 Crus of Beaujolais - AOC Saint-Amour, AOC Juliénas, AOC Chénas, AOC Moulin-à-Vent, AOC Fleurie, AOC Chiroubles, AOC Morgon, AOC Régnié, AOC Côte-de-Brouilly & AOC Brouilly -as well as AOC Beaujolais and AOC Beaujolais Village wines.
Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at your hotel. Driving through the granite hills covered in vines, your guide will share his passion for this authentic, often overlooked, corner of France. In the morning, enjoy a guided tour and tasting at a prestigious winery, where you will learn about the local history and winemaking techniques that have shaped these delightful Gamay wines.
Each winery included in your itinerary has been carefully selected by your expert guide, there are family-run estates, often off the beaten track, where you will have the opportunity to meet the winemaker or a family member, and gain valuable insight into their life and passion for viticulture.
Lunch will be served at a Beaujolais estate, where you will savor a gourmet meal artfully paired with a selection of their finest wines. Following your lunch, you will be given a tour of the facilities and learn all about the estate’s ethos.
After a day filled with exceptional wines and engaging experiences, return to the Fourviere Hotel in Lyon for a free evening to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 3 Pre-trip
Deeper into Beaujolais
Following breakfast, return to the enchanting Beaujolais region for another day of immersive wine experiences. Today will be spent in a different part of the region and the wineries selected will reflect these differences. During your stay, you will visit little gems with plots of vines across different appellations which will allow you to sample wines from all the Crus of Beaujolais as well as discover the reality of managing plots with a different terroir. Begin your day with a tour and tasting at another esteemed winery, further deepening your appreciation for the region's diverse offerings. For lunch, enjoy a delightful meal paired with wine at a charming local restaurant, where you will sample the flavors of the region's cuisine. The area is famous for its hearty dishes and authentic welcoming brasseries, it is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Beaujolais with a visit to another family run winery. Experience a guided tour and tasting, as you uncover the subtle nuances of the region's wines. Upon your return to Lyon, enjoy another open evening to discover the city's vibrant culinary scene and nightlife.
Day 4 Pre-trip
Beaujolais Grand Finale
After breakfast, you will return to the Beaujolais region for a final day of discovery. Building on the experiences from the previous days, you will continue to expand your understanding of the region through a guided tour and extensive tasting at a family-run winery. As always, your expert guide and the winemaker or family member leading your tour will be delighted to answer any questions you may have and share with you their savoir-faire and enthusiasm. Following your morning tour, a traditional lunch of regional delicacies will be served at the winery together with some of the estate’s wines.
In the afternoon, you will be taken to a second estate for a final experience at a Beaujolais winery. You will be taken back to Lyon at the end of the day where you will be able to enjoy a final evening at leisure.
Day 5 Pre-trip
Farewell to Lyon
After enjoying your final breakfast at the Hotel, bid adieu to your fellow wine enthusiasts and check out of your accommodations. Transfer to your next destination and reflect on the unforgettable memories you've made during your time exploring the Beaujolais region.
Accommodation
Scenic Sapphire
Exclusively reconfigured for cruising the rivers of France, the Sapphire affords guests the utmost in luxury, comfort and refinement on these charming and serene passageways.
This vessel boasts all of the luxury trappings you’ve come to expect, as well as a handful of new and innovative features. From the all-weather vitality pool and updated wellness area, to the bespoke cooking suite, guests can enjoy a raft of extravagant features when cruising aboard this revolutionary river cruise vessel.
On top of all-new facilities and amenities, the Sapphire boasts the very finest luxury suites in France — each perfectly appointed to afford you a truly luxurious stay.
Fourviere Hotel
Located atop the historic Fourviere Hill, overlooking the picturesque city of Lyon, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends modern luxury with historic charm. The property features elegantly designed rooms and suites, along with an array of amenities including a rooftop terrace, a gourmet restaurant serving exquisite French cuisine, a spa, and a fitness center.
The Fourviere Hotel is perfectly situated for exploring Lyon's rich cultural heritage, with attractions such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere, the Ancient Theatre of Fourviere, and the Old Town just a short stroll away. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural adventure, or a luxurious retreat, the Fourviere Hotel promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of Lyon.
The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
Details
Dates
Flight Information
Activity Level
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/agreement.
Included
- 20 meals – 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
- Complimentary premium beverages all day, every day – not just at meal times
- Butler service for every suite
- Complimentary full mini-bar restocked daily
- Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area
- The freedom of our e-bikes – electrically assisted bicycles
- Scenic Cruise Director to guide and assist & expert local guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your cruise
- Return airport transfers
- All tipping and gratuities on board and on shore
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
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
Categories & Rates*
Diamond Deck
Royal Owner’s Suite (RO): $9,885
Royal Suite (RA): $8,945
Royal Panorama Suite (RS): $8,625
Junior Balcony Suite (RJ): $8,205
Balcony Suite (P): $7,575
Balcony Suite (PP): $7,475
Balcony Suite (PA): $7,425
Balcony Suite (A): $7,425
Jr. Balcony Suite (BJ) $ 7,995
Saphire Deck Contact us for Availability
Balcony Suite (B): $ 7,475
Balcony Suite (BB): $ 7,425
Balcony Suite (BA): $ 7,265
Balcony Suite (C): $ 7,265
Jewel Deck
Standard Suite (D): $ 6,245
Standard Suite (E): $ 5,895
*Rates are per person, double occupancy in US Dollars.
*Room category subject to availability.
Single Occupancy
Single room rates will vary based on room category. Please enquire guestservices@experi.com for rates.
Pre-Trip Extension Rates*
Contact us for Availability
Classic: $4,295
Single Occupancy: $4,895
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Experi highly recommends you consider travel insurance. Learn more about options and how it can help you prepare for the unexpected at https://experi.com/travelinsurance/
Travel Terms & Conditions
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