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Gems of the Seine & Tastes of Southern France

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 Cruise Length
21 Days
 Cruise Starts
Paris
 Cruise Finishes
Lyon
21 Day Gems of the Seine & Tastes of Southern France Itinerary (Scenic)
Countries Explored: France
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Passengers
149
Crew
57
Launched
2009
Refurbished
2017
Cruise Code
SEFR-3

Overview

The tragedy of any travel itinerary is that it can’t cover everything. By necessity, you have to choose. However, with this itinerary, you can combine some of the very best destinations that France has to offer. Treat yourself to a comprehensive itinerary that takes in two of France’s foremost waterways – the Seine, which flows through the heart of Paris and into Northern France before entering the open waters of the English Channel, and the Rhône, which heads in the opposite direction, past rolling vineyards, imposing castles and timeless villages.

Itinerary

Enjoy a welcome dinner before cruising out of Paris with the beautiful city as a backdrop. (D)

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)

Freechoice: Visit Fécamp and its mighty palace. Situated in spectacular surrounds, the city’s natural setting contrasts perfectly with its architectural centrepiece, the Benedictine Palace. Afterwards visit the beautiful seaside town of Étretat, sitting proudly between dramatic rock faces. Or travel to the hilltop village of Bolbec and view fabrics at the fascinating Textile Museum before visiting a traditional Normandy farm nearby. For the more adventurous, join a guided cycling tour to the charming village of Villequier and visit the Victor Hugo Museum to learn more about the famous French writer. (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)

Today it’s your choice to either spend time exploring France’s most celebrated city, or embark on a discovery beyond the city limits. Freechoice: Walk through the trendy Marais district with a resident expert and hear tales that only the locals know, or admire the extravagance and grandeur of the famous Opera Garnier on a guided tour. Alternatively, see the highlights of Paris during a city tour and marvel at the many iconic sights of the city, or you may wish to explore beyond Paris and tour the 17th century estate of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte, Louis XIV’s inspiration for Versailles Palace. (B/L/D)

Board your included flight from Paris to Lyon where you will embark the Scenic Sapphire for your 10 night cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers. (B/D)

Freechoice: Meet a local truffle farmer and their specially trained dog to learn the tricks and techniques of truffle farming, before enjoying a tasting of their delicious produce, or visit an organic goat cheese farm and learn about open air farming whilst enjoying a tasting. Alternatively, learn about the traditional craftsmanship of barrel making with a local cooper. Tonight, your welcome dinner will be created using regionally sourced truffles. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Visit the famous wine-growing region of Beaujolais and meet a local vintner to sample some of his best vintages, or visit the restaurant of the acclaimed chef, Georges Blanc for a cooking demonstration. Alternatively, Shop with a Chef on a guided visit to a local food market, before visiting Scenic Culinaire. In the evening, we’ll welcome Chef Didier Goiffon and his team on board to cook a delicious regional meal celebrating Bresse Chicken. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Explore the small town of Beaune in the Burgundy region and visit a local mustard producer to learn the history of this flavourful condiment. Alternatively, take a tour of Beaune, including les Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital dating back to the Middle-Ages, or tour a prestigious wine estate, before tasting its premium wines. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Surrounded by sloping vineyards, walk through this quaint town and sample local Côtes du Rhône wines, or perhaps take a guided walking tour of Tournon, with the opportunity to see the village’s grand château up close. Alternatively, join an e-bike excursion along the banks of the Rhône. Enrich: Once the doors have closed to the public, you’re invited to an exclusive interactive workshop at the Valrhona Cité du Chocolate museum. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Embark on a walking tour of Avignon, including the Palais des Papes, or sample the celebrated wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape at a Côtes du Rhône vineyard. Alternatively, explore the artistic heritage of Arles, and visit the striking Arena. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Visit the hilltop village of Gordes, home to the stunning Sénanque Abbey, or Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire. Alternatively, take an excursion to Pont du Gard, or drive through olive groves and vineyards for a walking tour of the town of Les Baux, stopping to taste the produce of a local olive farm. Enrich: Enjoy a truly unforgettable experience at the prestigious Palais des Papes, where the Grand Tinel Room will be the setting for an exclusive classical concert. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a walking tour of Viviers, where you will be treated to an organ recital. Freechoice: Explore the Ardèche National Park and immerse yourself in the caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, or witness the natural beauty of the Ardèche National Park by kayak. Alternatively, discover the beautiful Provencal town of Grignan and its incredible château, or visit a nearby Truffle nursery. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Take in the vistas of the Rhône as you sail towards Lyon. This evening you are in for a treat as a local Pâtissier comes on board to share his delicious creations with you. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Discover Lyon’s historic significance by traversing its hidden secret passageways and visit Notre Dame Basilica, or enjoy a walking and tasting tour along the Rhône and Saône rivers. Alternatively, visit the village of Pérouges, or stay on board for a culinary photography class and learn the tricks and techniques of taking incredible pictures of food. Delicious and hearty Lyonnaise food is famous the world over and today you will understand why as you enjoy lunch at a traditional Bouchon restaurant. (B/L/D)

Depart Lyon today after a wonderful farewell breakfast. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions. (B)

Life Onboard Scenic Sapphire

Scenic All Inclusive
Scenic All Inclusive

Scenic Space-Ships offer a truly all-inclusive luxury package. No hidden extras, just exceptional experiences. Read more

Scenic Freechoice
Scenic Freechoice

These are hand-selected activities for you to choose from and enjoy at a pace that suits you. Read more

Scenic Enrich
Scenic Enrich

These are experiences that offer once-in-a-lifetime multi-sensory moments that are completely inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Read more

The Nth Degree
The Nth Degree

Scenic go above and beyond, making your trip a truly carefree, all-inclusive experience. Read more

Scenic Wellness
Scenic Wellness

You'll have access to a range of health and wellness amenities on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Read more

Scenic Tailormade
Scenic Tailormade

You’ll find Scenic Tailormade invaluable and it always knows the story of where you are. Read more

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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Scenic. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Scenic. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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