Lone Star Skiers and Adventure Club presents:
Sensations of Lyon and Provence During Autumn
A River Cruise and Land Tour by Mayflower
October 8 through October 19, 2027
It’s no wonder the South of France, birthplace of photography, enchants with Roman ruins, 15th century architecture, and sunlit vineyards beneath majestic mountains. Sail along the Rhône and Saône Rivers, exploring the historic ports of Vienne, Lyon, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles— each showcasing the rich heritage and scenic charm of Southern France. Then spend three nights in Nice on the dazzling French Riviera, with an excursion to glamorous Monte Carlo. This is a combination Emerald Waterways river cruise on the Rhone and Saone rivers, along with a short land tour. Here is the itinerary:
DAY 1 Depart the USA Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Lyon, France.
DAY 2 Lyon, France Welcome to Lyon, on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by a member of Mayflowers friendly greetings team and transferred to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. Meal: D
DAY 3 Lyon France’s third-largest city, Lyon, is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you’ll enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights. Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 4 Vienne Arrive in Vienne this morning. This charming town is situated at the confluence of the Rhone and Gere rivers. Enjoy a walking tour in Vienne to uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. You will visit one of the best preserved Roman theatres, which was built against the steep slopes of a hill and housed more than 10,000 spectators. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 5 Tournon The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers. Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 6 Viviers Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 7 Avignon Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution. Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. This evening you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 8 Arles The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries. Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France’s Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 9 Arles – Nice After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur. Meal: B
DAY 10 Nice Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure. You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past. Witness the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly. Meal: B
DAY 11 Nice Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Cruises representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city. Meal: B
DAY 12 Nice / USA After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheaters and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you. Meal: B (Itinerary and excursions are subject to change. Additional excursions will be released approximately 180 days prior to departure).
CRUISE AND HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Days 2 through 8 – Aboard the Emerald Liberté
Days 9 through 11 – Best Western Plus Hotel Masse or similar hotel
Cost will be determined by your cabin class. The cost ranges from $6706 to $9793. Airfare is FREE if you sign up and pay your deposit before 12-31-2026. Single supplement rooms are available for an additional $4998-$5908. Secure your space with a $400 non-refundable deposit. Alaska trip participants received a $100 trip certificate which they can use on this trip. Trip insurance is strongly encouraged and is available through Mayflower or by another insurance provider such as Myra Altshuler with Travel Protectors- email myra@travelprotectors.com. For more information, contact Kathy Buehner at email kbuehner@hotmail.com.
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