Rhone River Cruise

Experience the beauty and flavours of southern France on this memorable river cruise aboard the MS Camargue. Sailing from Lyon, discover a captivating landscape of historic cities, picturesque vineyards and Provençal countryside as we journey along the Rhône and Saône. Highlights include the magnificent city of Avignon, the wild landscapes of the Camargue and the historic streets of Viviers, with opportunities to discover the spectacular Ardèche Gorges and beautiful Sénanque Abbey. Along the way, optional experiences celebrate France’s renowned gastronomy, from the chocolates of Valrhona to the culinary legacy of Paul Bocuse. With relaxing days on the river, fascinating destinations and wonderful French scenery, this promises to be an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Rhône Valley.Monday: Following an early start we travel to Dover where we board the ferry for the crossing to Calais. On arrival we re-join our coach and make our way to the city of Reims where we spend our first night at the Mercure Reims Parc Des Expositions Hotel.

Tuesday: This morning we leave Reims and continue our journey through France, passing Troyes, Dijon, Beaune, Chalon Sur Saone, Macon and onto the city of Lyon. This is where we board the MS Camargue. This evening there is an introduction to the crew and a welcome cocktail. Afterwards we can enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment on board.

Wednesday: This morning there is an optional guided tour of the city and a tasting at Paul Bocuse’s, Les Halles De Lyon. Later we sail along the river Saone and head toward Collonges-Au-Mont-D’or. Here we can enjoy an extraordinary French Gastronomic experience at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye De Collonges. Paul Bocuse was a three star gourmet chef who was known for his innovative approach to cuisine and his love of fresh ingredients of the highest quality. At the end of our delicious evening we return on board the ship and start sailing.

Thursday: This morning we are in Tain L’Hermitage, here there is an optional tour of the Cite Du Chocolat. Here we can taste chocolate in all of its forms at the Valrhona Discovery Centre. The afternoon is spent cruising to Avignon, arriving in the evening. After dinner we have onboard entertainment.

Friday: Today there are two optional excursions whilst we are in Avignon. Firstly a guided tour of the Papal Palace. An imposing fortress and luxurious palace that symbolises the power of the Catholic Church in the middle ages. It is one of the largest and most important gothic buildings in Europe and the cities most famous attraction. The other optional excursion is to the Luberon and Senanque Abbey. Nestling in the heart of The Vaucluse mountains and the Luberon Nature Park. Senanque Abbey, a 12th century Cistercian Abbey is still home to a community of monks. We also have some free time in Avignon before returning on board and start sailing to Arles.

Saturday: This morning there is an optional excursion to the Camargue, the epitome of traditional provencal culture. This immense flatland is home to exceptional wildlife and plants which thrive in its marshes, ponds and seashore. We also visit a Manade, where bulls are raised and horses are trained, to learn about the various traditions in the area. The afternoon is spent cruising through the gorgeous French countryside, passing by Valence, which is dominated by it’s Cathedral and Montelimar which is known for its famous nougat. Tonight is our Gala evening.

Sunday: This morning we are in Viviers where there is an optional guided tour. The city feels like an open air museum where pages of history are written in stone. We visit the smallest Cathedral in France and The House of Nights with it’s superb renaissance – style facade. During the afternoon the optional excursion is to the Gorges De L’ardeche. This panoramic tour by coach will take us to the heart of the treasures found in the area. The 18 mile canyon was carved by turbulent waters that left behind steep cliffs, deep valleys, dense vegitation and stunning limestone formations. We see the Pont D’Arc, a natural arch almost 100 feet high, carved out by the Ardeche River. Those on the excursion re-join the boat at La Voulte and then we continue sailing towards Lyon.

Monday: After breakfast we disembark the MS Camargue and board our coach and commence our journey towards Reims, retracing our outward journey. We arrive at the Mercure Parc Des Expositions Hotel for the last night of this memorable holiday.

Tuesday: This morning we leave Reims and travel to Calais where we board the ferry for the crossing to Dover. On arrival we re-join our coach and continue our journey towards home, arriving during the early evening.

Payment Schedule:

£130.00 per person deposit at time of booking.
45% of total cost due by Friday 2nd April 2027
Remaining balance due by Monday 21st June 2027

Scale of Cancellation Charges:

More than 60 days, Deposit
60 - 51 days, 40% of Total Holiday Cost
50 - 30 days, 50% of Total Holiday Cost
29 days or less, 100% of Total Holiday Cost

Includes:

Luxury Coach Travel
2 Nights Half Board (Overnight Hotel)
6 Nights Full Board (MS Camargue)
All Rooms En-Suite
Captains Welcome Reception
Porterage (MS Camargue)
Evening On Board Entertainment
All Inclusive with Unlimited Drinks during meals and from bar (12:00-23:59) Premium Brands extra cost
Gastronomic Dinner at Abbaye De Collonges
‘Gala Evening’ 4 Course Dinner
Free WiFi in Lounge and BarThe MS Camargue is a modern and comfortable CroisiEurope river cruise ship, offering stylish accommodation across two decks. On board, guests can enjoy a panoramic restaurant, welcoming lounge bar and spacious sun deck with outdoor seating, providing the perfect place to relax and admire the passing scenery.