A Journey Through Beautiful Provence

Itinerary

Description

From ancient ruins and vine-covered hills to wild horses and enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the wonders we encounter on this all-inclusive cruise along the Rhône and Saône are beautifully unique. The labyrinthine alleys of Lyon are a delight to explore, Mâcon offers us the opportunity to see the enchanting sights of rural Burgundy, while picturesque Arles and historic Avignon is the perfect place to soak up the French joie de vivre.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Ferry to Calais, France & overnight hotel stay

Ferry to Calais and onwards to our hotel, where we stay overnight.

Day 2 – Arrival in Chalon-sur-Saone, France 

We continue our journey south, arriving in Chalon-sur-Saone where we enjoy some free time to explore the picturesque city of Chalon-sur-Saône. Here, we have the opportunity to explore the city, with its many beautiful timber-framed houses and the Cathédrale St Vincent, before we board the A-ROSASTELLA for the start of our six-night cruise.

Day 3 – Mâcon

We arrive in Mâcon, the capital of the department of Saône-et-Loire and the southernmost city in the Burgundy region. Located by the River Saône and surrounded by vineyards and châteaux, the city has an almost Mediterranean character thanks to its buildings with coloured facades and roofs covered with Romanesque tiles.

Day 4 – Lyon

Dating back 2,000 years, Lyon is one of France’s oldest cities. Situated where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this impressive city takes us on a journey through time. Its old town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers a maze of narrow streets, vaulted passageways and historic buildings. Another highlight is the Notre Dame de Fourvière, a late 19^th-century basilica built in shimmering white stone, one of just 200 impressive sites that are illuminated after dark. Lyon is also reputed as the gourmet capital of France!

Day 5 – Avignon

Previously voted as the European City of Culture in 2000, Avignon is one of the most popular ports of call on A-ROSA’s Rhône cruises. This striking, historic city was once the seat of the Catholic Popes in the Middle Ages – be sure to visit the unique Palais des Papes in Avignon’s ancient quarter, one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. There are also beautifully-preserved ramparts, old alleyways, mansion-lined streets, lively squares and the famous Pont d'Avignon to explore. We enjoy a guided walking tour followed by a speciality dinner on board this evening.

Day 6 – Arles

Departing Avignon in the afternoon, our cruise continues to the Provençal city of Arles, with its sun-drenched terracotta-tiled rooftops, which occupies a broad bend in the River Rhône. Known as the city of art and history, Arles is famous for its ancient and Romanesque remains, including the exceptional Roman amphitheatre, with many monuments classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Arles is the gateway to the Camargue, Europe’s largest river delta, a hauntingly-beautiful landscape that is home to more than 400 species of birds and the wild, white Camargue horses.

Day 7 – Cruising day
During our cruising day, enjoy watching the scenery drift by as you look forward to the next towns and cities. There is also the opportunity to take an optional excursion to the scenic Ardeche Gorges and colourful lavender fields.

Day 8 – Disembarkation in Lyon & overnight hotel stay

We arrive in Lyon where we disembark and head to Paris for some free time and the opportunity to enjoy an evening meal (not included) before we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – Ferry home

We check out of the hotel and head to Calais for our return ferry home.

Optional Excursions

With A-ROSA, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the local sights at your leisure or choosing from a range of optional excursions, which are bookable on board. From tours through ancient cities and trips through impressive landscapes to action-packed and fun-filled experiences, there is so much choice! In many cities, you have the opportunity to visit the country and its people with a guide and driver. Your on-board host will happily provide you with more information.

Coach Bullets

• Return coach travel
• Return ferry crossings with included access to Club Lounge
• First & last night at a selected hotel in France with breakfast (first night with a light evening meal)
• 6-night cruise from Chalon-sur-Saone, France on a premium all-inclusive basis:
• Breakfast, lunch & gourmet buffet dining (including a special welcome dinner)
• Afternoon tea & snacks
• Tea, coffee & water available all day & evening
• High-quality drinks (11am-11pm): tea, coffee & coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine & a selection of wines, cocktails & long drinks (exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges & champagne) (exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges & champagne)
• 15% discount on spa treatments
• Water, bathroom products, bathrobe & slippers in the cabin
• Free Wi-Fi
• Free use of all on-board facilities such as sauna & fitness room
• On-board entertainment (includes up to two cultural performances)
• Guided walking tour of Avignon
  Services of an on-board Guest Relations Manager
• Port taxes
  Free A-ROSA app to help you explore

Please note: there is no seating or dress code; free table times ensure a relaxed atmosphere among guests.

Search Bullets

• First & last night at a selected hotel in France with breakfast (first night with a light evening meal)
• 6-night cruise from Chalon-sur-Saone, France on a premium all-inclusive basis:
• Breakfast, lunch & gourmet buffet dining (including a special welcome dinner)
• Afternoon tea & snacks
• Tea, coffee & water available all day & evening
• High-quality drinks (11am-11pm): tea, coffee & coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine & a selection of wines, cocktails & long drinks (exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges & champagne) (exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges & champagne)
• 15% discount on spa treatments
• Water, bathroom products, bathrobe & slippers in the cabin
• Free Wi-Fi
• Free use of all on-board facilities such as sauna & fitness room
• On-board entertainment (includes up to two cultural performances)
• Guided walking tour of Avignon
  Services of an on-board Guest Relations Manager
• Port taxes
  Free A-ROSA app to help you explore

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Search Results Coach

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Cabins

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Accommodation

A-ROSA STELLA

The A-ROSA STELLA has capacity for a maximum of 174 passengers and offers comfortable outside-facing cabins with shower/WC, safe, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer, telephone and free Wi-Fi. On-board facilities include a restaurant, panoramic lounge with bar and dance floor, a spacious sun deck with recliners, heated outdoor pool, shuffleboard, putting green and giant chess board plus a spa with sauna and fitness room (spa treatments at extra cost).

Price shown is based on two people sharing an outside cabin with large port holes. Single cabins on request.

Cabin upgrades available (situated on higher decks and complete with Juliette balconies to enjoy watching the delightful riverscapes pass by). Subject to availability.

We also spend the first and last night of our tour in a well-appointed hotel in France (JG4 rating). The comfortable rooms are en suite and other facilities include a bar and restaurant.