Anticipate a voyage of carefree bliss aboard Napoléon, our biggest, most sociable barge.
Glide through sun-baked landscapes where olive groves and lavender fields bask under a piercing blue sky. Alight to discover the timeless treasures and delectable tastes of Provence.
- Wine Tasting in Northern Rhone Valley at Tain l'Hermitage/Tournon.
- Explore the medieval town of Viviers and play pétanque.
- Visit a truffle farm in Grignan and tour a medieval chateau.
- Discover Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, and the Roman Pont du Gard aqueduct.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Board the barge at Tain l'Hermitage or Tournon and get to know your crew over a champagne reception. This evening you are joined by a local sommelier who will introduce you to the Northern Rhone Valley wines. Later, dine on superb cuisine accompanied by France's finest wines.
Cruise to Viviers while watching the beautiful Rhône Valley glide by. Enjoy a guided walk of this charming medieval town in the mid-afternoon. Return to the barge and play the traditional Provençal game pétanque.
Enjoy a scenic drive the Provençal village of Grignan for a tour of the medieval chateau followed by a visit a local truffle farm to learn about and taste this world-renowned delicacy. Lunch is at a delightful local restaurant. Back on board, cruise south to Saint-Etienne-des-Sorts. Pass through the Bollène lock, with its dramatic 23-metre drop.
Today visit the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where you'll enjoy a session of wine tasting. Lunch is served on board as you cruise to Avignon, past the famous bridge Pont Saint-Bénezet. Moor opposite the gates to city then visit the spectacular Roman Pont du Gard aqueduct.
Tour Avignon, which was home to the Popes of Avignon in the 1300s. Enjoy a walk around the walled city, as well as the Palace of the Popes. Take time to peruse the shops or sample French café culture. Lunch is served back on Belmond Napoléon as you cruise to Arles. Explore the village of Les Baux-de-Provence before dining on board.
Tour Arles, home of Van Gogh from 1888 to 1889. Enjoy lunch as you cruise back to Avignon. Disembark to visit Saint-Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus and also home to Van Gogh. In the evening have a magnificent farewell gala dinner and trade stories with your fellow travellers.
Awake to your final breakfast aboard before the crew bids you farewell and you disembark.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Napoleon
Vessel Type: Barge
Length: 129ft / 39.3m
Passenger Capacity: 12
Built: 1963
