South of France

Freechoice: This morning explore Beaune, including a visit to Les Hospices de Beaune. Alternatively, visit the estate of Chteau de Savigny-les-Beaune to see the impressive collection of motorcycles, race cars, and fighter planes.

Freechoice: Experience the magnificent Chteau de Cormatin, boasting beautiful gardens and water features. Alternatively, join the intelligent hounds and their owners in nearby quaint villages to locate and sample French truffles a gastronomic delicacy. Enjoy leisurely cruising to Mcon this afternoon, or opt for a class in French cuisine in Scenic Culinaire on board. Alternatively, cycle from Tournus to Mcon and meet the ship there.

Youre sure to love Mcon. Be fascinated by its history and delighted by the surrounding picturesque farming region acclaimed for its five wine appellations and gastronomy.

Freechoice: Retrace the traditional life of the region on your visit to the Bresse Museum, or enjoy wine tasting in the celebrated Beaujolais region. Alternatively, visit Cluny, a village in Burgundy that was constructed around the great Benedictine Abbey, once the worlds largest basilica.

Awake today in Lyon, the gastronomic heart of France.

Freechoice: Discover Lyons historic significance by traversing its hidden traboules secret passageways that date back to the 4th century, and visit Notre Dame Basilica, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across Lyon. Alternatively, walk the cobblestone paths of yesteryear in the medieval hilltop town of Prouges. Or, if you wish, visit the exclusive culinary school of Paul Bocuse and perfect the art of French cuisine before sampling some of the delicious fare.

Lyons Botanical Gardens and Zoo are perfect for a leisurely bike ride this afternoon.

Enrich
Experience the French extravaganza that is the can-can amidst other performances when you are treated to the exclusive gala spectacular, Scenic Rouge, under the big-top onshore this evening in Lyon.

Cruising from Lyon youll have the opportunity to soak in the picturesque riverside panoramas as you glide effortlessly toward Tournon. You may choose to visit Scenic Culinaire whilst cruising and pick up a trick or two to add to your culinary prowess. On arrival in Tournon enjoy a fun lecture on the French paradox and etiquette.

Sundowners
Overlooking the Rhne, Tournon Castle is a must-see for visitors, both for its historic interest and its breathtaking outlook. Enjoy an afternoon aperitif on the terrace of the castle accompanied by local musicians. Youll find it a great soundtrack to a truly awe-inspiring backdrop.

Freechoice: Enjoy a unique wine tasting in the wine cave of Tournon Castle, or join a guided walk of Tain lHermitage including a tasting at Valrhona Chocolates. You could also enjoy a group bike ride along the Rhne to neighbouring villages, or hike the famed Saint-Joseph vineyard for a tasting of the delicious varietals amidst the vines.

Scenic cruising to Viviers this afternoon.

Enjoy a walking tour of Viviers including an organ recital in the towns cathedral.

Freechoice: Explore the Ardche National Park and immerse yourself in the Caverne du Pont-dArc Museum, or visit the aromatic Lavender Museum. If youre feeling adventurous, you can canoe through one of Europes largest natural canyons, or drop into the beautiful provincial town of Grignan.

Freechoice: Join an exclusive cooking class in Scenic Culinaire on board, or sample the celebrated wines of Chteauneuf-du-Pape at a charming Ctes du Rhne vineyard.

Enjoy picturesque cruising to Avignon this afternoon. Then take a walking tour that includes a visit to the citys architectural jewel, the Popes Palace.

Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire with your fresh ingredients. Alternatively, drop in to the villages of the Luberon region including Gordes and lIsle-sur-la-Sourge, or take an excursion to Uzs and Pont du Gard.

Explore Avignon at leisure this afternoon.

Enrich
Be treated to a truly unforgettable experience at the prestigious Popes Palace of Avignon, among the most visited sites in France. After the doors close to the general public, youll be ushered in for an exclusive gala dinner and classical concert in the grandiose Grand Tinel room.

Choices today include the spectacular La Camargue National Park.

Freechoice: Enhance your French cooking skills by joining a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Or take in the wild beauty of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and visit the 60 hectare Parc Ornithologique whilst there. You can also choose to visit the fortified Mediterranean village of Aigues-Mortes.

This afternoon, relax on the Sun Deck while cruising roundtrip from Tarascon towards the Mediterranean Sea. Tonight, a Camargue gypsy band performs live for your listening pleasure on board.

The riverside town of Tarascon exudes a charming medieval character.

Freechoice: Explore the artistic heritage of Arles, and see the striking Arles Arena, or stop in at the pretty hilltop village of Les Baux before touring a charming family-run olive farm to sample their delicious products in a delightful setting. Alternatively, pay a visit to Saint-Rmy and Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery where Van Gogh was held for a year.