Luxury European River Cruises, Tours of Europe, Rhine River Cruises, Danube, Deals, Seine River Cruise
Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/623734
58 THE BEAUTY OF PROVENCE Country routes emblazoned with sunflowers, vast fields of lavender, ancient olive groves and historic villages – nowhere says France more than the impossibly diverse landscapes of Provence. Connecting its lovely towns, the balmy Rhône River is decorated with a progression of masterpieces. From tantalising truffle farms to verdant vine-covered countryside, the appeal of the south is undeniable. Perhaps join a local guide for a fascinating tour of the Louvre 22 Day Best of France Arles to Bordeaux 21 Nights France River Cruising Arles | Grignan | Lyon | Giverny | Paris | Bordeaux | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Day 1. Arrive Arles, Embark Ship. Be transferred to your river ship in Arles. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner on board. Seven Night Stay: one of APT's luxurious Aria River Ships. D Day 2. Arles, Freedom of Choice. Tour the castle ruins in Les Baux-de-Provence then visit an olive mill. Alternatively, join a local guide for a sightseeing tour of Arles. BLD Day 3. Avignon. A guided tour of Avignon today takes you to the Palace of the Popes. In the afternoon, travel to the Pont du Gard. BLD Day 4. Viviers, Grignan. Today, join a local truffle farmer and his dogs and head out in search of the prized delicacy. Next, visit Grignan Castle for a tour and Cocktail Reception. Re-board your ship and continue cruising through the French countryside. BLD Day 5. Tournon, Freedom of Choice, Vienne. Visit Eden Park garden or ride the historic Ardèche Steam Train. Later, cruise to Vienne and explore at your leisure. BLD Day 6. Belleville, Beaujolais Region, Freedom of Choice, Lyon. Explore the Beaujolais Region on your chosen activity today. Indulge in a gourmet dinner at L'Abbaye de Collonges tonight. BLD Day 7. Lyon, Freedom of Choice. Take a tour of Lyon then visit a silk workshop, or learn why Lyon is known as the gastronomic centre of France on a culinary tour. BLD Day 8. Lyon, Disembark Ship, Paris. Travel by train to Paris. On arrival, enjoy a city tour then take a trip to the second level of the Eiffel Tower. Later, board your river ship. Seven Night Stay: one of APT's luxurious Aria River Ships. BD Day 9. Vernon, Giverny. Dock in Vernon and pay a visit to Château de Bizy. Then travel to Giverny where you'll visit Claude Monet's house and gardens, taking in scenes that inspired many of the artist's famous paintings. Back on board, enjoy a Gala Welcome Dinner. BLD Day 10. Caudebec-en-Caux, Freedom of Choice. Arrive in the old fishing village of Caudebec-en-Caux. Perhaps join a full day excursion tracing the events of D-Day – 6 June 1944. Or visit the Pays d'Auge region. BLD Day 11. Rouen, Honfleur. Set in the heart of Normandy, disembark in Rouen and travel to the pretty port town of Honfleur for a tour. See the picturesque old port area and visit Saint-Catherine's Church. BLD Day 12. Rouen, Freedom of Choice. Perhaps visit the site of the Battle of the Somme, which took place between July and November of 1916. Alternatively, you may prefer to take a tour of Rouen then enjoy a free afternoon. BLD Day 13. Les Andelys, Freedom of Choice. Perhaps hike up to the ruins of Château Gaillard. Others may prefer a leisurely excursion to Château de la Roche-Guyon. Back on board, enjoy a delicious dinner. BLD The Royal Collection Freedom of Choice TM Inclusions Signature Invitation NEW FOR 2017 www.aptouring.com.au