From Lyon to Nice · Europe (River) · 10 nights
Scenic’s pair of 149-guest ships – Sapphire and Diamond – were given a full makeover in 2017, bringing a new level of luxury to the rivers of France.
Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Diamond offer stylish, spacious
accommodation and a luxurious all-inclusive experience. The
innovative onboard cooking school, Scenic Cullinaire, is a
wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavours of
southern France.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France's most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, from lavish Michelin-starred affairs to family-run joints tucked away down a back alley. What's more, the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings, best appreciated from the top of the soaring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
The little town of Mâcon lies on the west bank of the Saône, at the southern edge of Burgundy, and it’s a great base for sampling the region’s famous wines. A popular excursion is a trip to nearby Beaune, home to the magnificent medieval Hospices de Beaune and its prestigious wine estate.
The little town of Viviers, on the right bank of the Rhône, is a delightful place to explore on foot, with its narrow, cobbled medieval streets and elegant cathedral. A lot of history is packed into a small space, including Roman remains and the Renaissance era Maison des Chevaliers.
The former papal stronghold of Avignon cuts a dramatic figure, perched above the Rhône and ensconced behind towering walls. The Palais des Papes was home to a succession of 14th century pontiffs, and still looms large over Avignon’s atmospheric old town.
The charming little town of Arles sits at the head of the Rhône delta, on the northern fringe of the sprawling marshlands of the Camargue. It’s a town with a long history, as evidenced by an impressive array of Roman ruins, and it's a great place to sample the essence of Provençal culture.
Tarascon is one of Provence’s lesser known towns, situated on the Rhône between Avignon and Arles. Points of interest include the 15th century castle and the pretty Moulin de Daudet, a windmill that belonged to the author Alphonse Daudet. Tarascon is also an important centre for Provençal textiles.
Nice enjoys a marvellous setting on one of the most glorious stretches of the Côte d’Azur, the sweeping Bay of Angels, so it’s no wonder that tourists have been flocking here since the 19th century.
