Riviera’s Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence

This seven-night River Rhone Provence river cruise offers a fantastic way to see the heart of scenic France. Starting in Lyon, you will travel through the beautiful regions of Burgundy and Provence, stopping at historic towns and famous landmarks. This is an Escorted Tour on a five-star ship where everything is organised for you, from your flights from Dublin to your daily excursions. Irish travellers will appreciate the straightforward inclusions, such as return flights with a 20kg bag and airport transfers, ensuring a stress-free start to the holiday.

In Lyon, you will find a city famous for its food and its history as a silk-weaving centre. The guided tour here shows you the old town and the impressive squares, including Place Bellecour. Moving on to Beaune, you will visit the Hôtel-Dieu, a building famous for its colourful roof and its history of helping the local community. As the cruise progresses, you will spend time on the Saône and the Rhône, enjoying the scenery from the sun deck or the lounge. The white wines of Mâcon and the reds of the Beaujolais hills provide a wonderful backdrop as you sail towards your next destination.

One of the highlights of this River Rhone Provence journey is the visit to the Ardèche Gorges. The limestone cliffs and the natural rock arch at Pont d’Arc are sights you won’t forget. You have the option to visit a lavender farm to learn about local traditions or explore a prehistoric cave. Further south, in Arles, you can walk in the footsteps of the Romans or see the places that inspired the painter Van Gogh. The engineering of the Pont du Gard aqueduct is another must-see, showing how the Romans moved water across the countryside. At Tain l’Hermitage, you can take part in a wine tasting on board, sampling local Syrah while learning about the region’s ancient viticulture.

Avignon is another major stop, where you can visit the Palace of the Popes. This massive Gothic building was once the centre of the Catholic world. You can walk through the grand halls and see the frescoes that have survived for centuries. You can also walk on the famous Pont d’Avignon or take a small train tour around the city. Throughout the trip, you will enjoy full board dining on your ship, including a special Chef’s Dinner on the final night. With complimentary drinks and WiFi included, this cruise offers excellent value for those wanting to explore the history and scenery of France. For those looking for extra space, cabin upgrades to the middle and upper decks are available for a supplement.