Spacious, comfortable 'Belmond Napoléon' offers guests three decks, with a hot tub for watching sun-drenched life along the sparkling Rhône River. Enjoy views of sleepy vineyards and experience a truffle farm; a lavender distillery; and Pont du Gard, a true masterpiece of ancient architecture. Sip award-winning wines from Côtes du Rhône. And return after every excursion to your richly appointed home away from home for a gourmet dinner.
Meet in Paris and transfer to the rail station for the TGV high-speed train to Lyon. Join ‘Belmond Napoléon' for a welcome reception before a gourmet dinner on board.
Day 2 - MONDAY
Tour Lyon, the second city of France, renowned for culture and gastronomy. Visit the hilltop Basilica of Nôtre-Dame de Fourvière, constructed in the 19th century on the ancient site of the Chapel of the Virgin. Admire the magnificent panoramic views from the terrace before taking time to browse the shops or relax in a sunny café.
Day 3 - TUESDAY
Cruise past the magnificent vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône this morning, and visit a prestigious local winery for a tasting. In the riverside town of Tain l'Hermitage, shop for premium French chocolate at the famous Valrhona shop.
Day 4 - WEDNESDAY
Admire the beauty of the Rhône Valley this morning as 'Belmond Napoléon' cruises to Viviers. Disembark at mid-afternoon for a guided walk around the charming medieval town, returning to the barge to enjoy a traditional game of pétanque.
Day 5 - THURSDAY
Take a scenic drive to Nyons, a typical Provençal village with a lavender distillery and 18th-century olive mill. Lunch is ashore today in Grignan, followed by a visit to a truffle farm. Back on board the barge, cruise to the village of Saint-Étienne-des-Sorts.
Day 6 - FRIDAY
In Châteauneuf-du-Pape today, visit the old estate of Château de la Nerthe for a wine tasting. After a lunchtime cruise to Avignon, disembark to explore the city. Visit the magnificent Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was a papal residence in the 14th century. A gala farewell dinner awaits back on board to celebrate the cruise week.
Day 7 - SATURDAY
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Avignon’s TGV station for the high-speed train to Paris, where your journey ends on arrival.