Itineraries

Vallée du Rhone - Saône - Provence (Central and Southern France)

The Napoléon cruises the Vallée du Rhône between Arles and Tain l’Hermitage a region full of sophisticated architecture dating back to the Roman civilization and ruins of fortifications, arenas and aqueducts. 

The endless vistas of tiled roofs, lavender fields and olive groves are all synonymous with this region. Excursions are arranged to the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus and the ancient Roman and Greek ruins of Pont-du-Gard.

2009 Schedule
April-October, annual

Prices

Quoted prices are from and may vary depending on the season.
Private hire for up to 12 passengers or individual bookings, based on double occupancy.

Please click here for prices and information on the Grand Cru Special Cruise (July 20th 2008).

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What’s Included

• 6 nights accommodation on board your péniche-hôtel
• Breakfast, lunch and candlelit dinner each day
• Refreshments on board after excursions
• Wine with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board
• Sightseeing excursions, including entrance fees
• Use of bicycles
• Air-conditioned mini-van with driver for sightseeing    

Gratuities and Insurance are not included.


Sample a Journey
Tain L’Hermitage To Arles aboard The Napoléon

Sunday- Depart Paris by train and travel to the French city of Valence. On arrival, your Afloat in France guide escorts you to Tain l’Hermitage or Tournon where you board the Napoléon for a champagne reception.

Monday- Shortly after bread and croissants have been bought from the local bakery, set off and cruise to Viviers. Relax on board and watch the beautiful scenery
of the Rhône Valley glide by before taking a walking tour of this medieval town.

Tuesday- Take a guided visit to the Château de Grignan where the daughter of Madame de Sévigné resided. Today, you have the choice to have lunch off the barge, before a visit to a local truffle farm. Back on board, continue to St-Etienne-des-Sorts.

Wednesday- Morning excursion to Château la Nerthe for a tasting of the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.The afternoon cruise to Avignon is spectacular. Cruise past Le Pont St-Bénezet (the famous Pont d’Avignon) and then make an excursion to the Pont du Gard, a magnificent Roman aqueduct.

Thursday- Visit Avignon and enjoy a walking tour of the walled city, including a guided tour of the Palais de Papes. Later, cruise to Arles with an afternoon visit to the village of Les Baux which you can discover at your own pace.

Friday- After breakfast go on a walking tour of Arles, best known in modern times because Van Gogh spent much of his time painting here between 1888 and 1890. Lunch is served while cruising to Vallabrègues. Later, visit the lovely town of St-Rémy, the birthplace of the famous French physician/astrologer Nostradamus, before an olive oil tasting in a traditional 18th century Provencal Bastide.

Saturday- After breakfast, transfer to Avignon for your return train journey to Paris.


More about the barge  |  Info & Booking Request