Freechoice: Join a hike with a difference and visit King Richard the Lionheart's Château Gaillard, or journey to Lyons la Forêt, one of the most beautiful villages of France, and visit a local farm to sample cider, the region's specialty. Alternatively, join your local guide for a walking tour of the quaint village of Les Andelys, or take a bicycle tour through this beautiful village, set on the banks of the Seine. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Enjoy a walking tour of Rouen, the capital of the Normandy region. Take in the famous sites relating to Joan of Arc, and admire the city's half-timbered houses and the historic Rouen Cathedral. Or learn about the Viking Warlord Rollo ‘the Walker', who will host a guided walking tour through the medieval laneways of Rouen.
This region is also the gateway to the historic Western Front, and this afternoon you'll have the opportunity to gain fascinating insights into the Somme battlefields and learn about what life was like for a soldier during WWI with a fascinating lecture. After dinner, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Get a glimpse of what the Somme battlefields might have been like for those caught up in this terrible World War I battle, which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers. You may choose to visit the Australian National Memorial, containing the Sir John Monash Centre as well as the Caterpillar Valley Memorial, dedicated to the New Zealand citizens who perished during the Battle of the Somme.
Or, you may choose to visit the Lochnagar Crater, the Newfoundland memorial park and the Thiepval memorial. Alternatively, stay in Rouen and explore the collection of impressionist paintings, including masterpieces by Renoir and Monet, at the Museum of Fine Arts which was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte. (B/L/D)
Relax on board this morning as you cruise toward the open waters of the English Channel. Freechoice: Explore Honfleur on a guided walking tour, with its quaint architecture, relaxed coastal atmosphere and colourful fishing boats bobbing on the water, or visit charming Norman villages and discover their traditional Cheeses and Calvados. The small town of Pont l'Eveque is renowned for producing a cheese of the same name, and you will get to sample this and more during your guided tour. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Visit the historic Normandy beaches, the site of the D-Day landings that took place in June 1944. Here you have three equally fascinating options to choose from.
Explore the involvement of the British forces as you visit the Bayeux War Cemetery, Museum of the Battle of Normandy and the Landing Museum in Arromanches, finishing at the British Normandy memorial, or learn about the US contribution to the battle at Utah Beach and Memorial before a visit to the Normandy American cemetery and visitor centre, or view the battle through the eyes of Canadian forces as you visit Juno Beach Centre, a museum that focuses on the Canadian war effort as well as the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian cemetery and Pegasus Bridge & Museum.
Alternatively, learn about history of a different era and visit Bayeux including its famous Tapestry, a hand embroidered masterpiece that depicts the tales of the Norman conquest of England and dates back to the 11th century. (B/L/D)
In a location rich in visual treasures, it's easy to understand why this region of France inspired many of history's most famous artists. Freechoice: Visit Giverny and Monet's former residence and gardens. Many of the artists most famous art works were inspired by this impressive location, or get your heart pumping on a self-guided cycle through Vernon to Giverny where you have the opportunity to visit Monet's garden. After exploring these spectacular gardens you may feel inspired to join a painting class on board this afternoon.
Enrich: Built into a steep rock face overlooking the Seine River and the small village bearing the same name, Château de La Roche-Guyon is a sight to behold. Experience the opulence and grandeur of yesteryear as you enjoy a classical concert performed by the region's most reputable musicians. The Château dates back to medieval times and you'll be sure to have fond memories of this experience for many years to come. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Discover the charms of Auvers-sur-Oise and see Vincent van Gogh's room, or step inside the magnificent Chantilly Castle for a guided tour of this remarkable château, set amidst beautiful parklands. Alternatively, visit the great stables on the grounds of Chantilly. The stables also house a museum dedicated to the relationship between man and horse throughout time. (B/L/D)
As you cruise to Libourne, your Cruise Director will host an enjoyable game of blind wine tasting, featuring wines produced in the region. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion. Explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church, before visiting the estate of Château de La Rivière for a cocktail and tasting experience. Sample regional delicacies such as soft creamy cheeses served with crunchy bread and fresh local charcuterie. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne, or travel by coach through the Pomerol region, famed for its red wines, and visit the acclaimed estate of Château Siaurac for a wine tasting. Alternatively, take one of our on board e-bikes out for a cycle through the region, including a wine tasting, or explore Bergerac on a guided tour.
Enrich: Set in the spectacular surrounds of the Médoc countryside, Château d’Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and tonight it is the venue for your unforgettable exclusive classical concert. (B/L/D)
Regions