A Culinary Cruise Through France

Arrive in Geneva, and then drive to your hotel in Lausanne. This jewel on the shores of Lake Geneva thrills with swoon-worthy Alpine scenery, medieval architecture and a rich cultural scene of museums, theaters and festivals, as well as the cachet of serving as home to the International Olympic Committee.

Begin your exploration of Lausanne with a walking tour that includes a chocolate tasting, followed by lunch in town. In the afternoon, head to nearby Chillon Castle. Rising from the waters of Lake Geneva, the imposing castle’s walls once held Richard the Lionheart prisoner. Cap off your day with a curated tasting of local Chasselas and pinot noirs within the castle itself.

Cross the French border to Annecy, the “Venice of the Alps.” Here, explore the cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-painted houses of the old town, the medieval Château d’Annecy looming above. A nearby Alpine farm offers a remarkable setting for a traditional mountain lunch. Continue to Lyon, a colorful city widely regarded as the culinary capital of France. Join local chefs this evening for a hands-on introduction to fine Lyonnaise cooking.

Continue your exploration of Lyon amid the market halls of Les Halles de Paul Bocuse Lyon, a temple to all things gourmet. Sample the market specialties, capping things off with a tasting of Burgundy wines. Then, board your riverboat and settle in with a welcome cocktail and dinner on board.

Awake in Mâcon, gateway to the Beaujolais wine region. Set out in a vintage Land Rover to visit several local wineries for a day full of fine food, wine, anecdotes, architecture and landscapes.

Dock in picturesque Chalon-sur-Saône, where a local guide reveals this riverside town’s finest delicacies. After lunch on board, visit the medieval enclave of Brancion and stroll the gardens of the 17th-century Château de Cormatin.

Return to Lyon to walk the hidden passageways of Croix-Rousse Hill, visit a silk weavers’ workshop and explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This evening, enjoy a private cocktail party followed by a Chef’s Highlights dinner, an A&K exclusive.

This morning, embark on a culinary adventure in historic Avignon, popping into local haunts for a sampling of small plates. Later, take your seat in a French classic, the iconic Citroën 2CV — or as locals call it, “deux chevaux”, — for a drive through the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, stopping for photos and tastings along the way.

Step ashore in Arles, a charming riverside town with ties to the famed post-impressionist master, Vincent van Gogh. Here, stand in the spot where the artist set up his easel to paint Café Terrace at Night. In the nearby countryside, a cooking workshop introduces the secrets of Provençal food and wine. At nearby Saint Paul-de-Mausole, visit the asylum where Van Gogh painted some of his last masterworks. Tonight, join the captain for a celebratory gala dinner.

In Viviers, mix with locals over a game of pétanque, perhaps paired with a glass of local pastis. This afternoon, cruise back up the Rhône and enjoy a fine farewell dinner aboard.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.