Rhône Route Intensive 2023

Burgundy not only produces first-class wines. The region also offers towns worth visiting, such as Beaune with its legendary Hôtel-Dieu. You will drive through famous wine villages of the Côte d'Or such as Pommard and Meursault, Chassagne and Puligny. In Beaune, you will visit the Hôtel-Dieu. This masterpiece of Flemish Gothic architecture welcomed the first patients under its colourful roofs as early as the mid-15th century. Today, a museum gives you rare insights into nursing in the early modern period. After the visit, you can explore the pretty old town of the village individually before continuing to Chalon-sur-Saône.

From Tournus, your trip takes you along the Wine Route to the beautiful little town of Cormantin. Cormatin is known for its castle, which was originally built in the 13th century. The construction of the castle that you see today was started in 1605, however only the north wing was preserved. You'll find out lots about this special building during a tour. The gardens of the castle are also worth seeing. On the way back you will visit the medieval church of Chapaize, whose exterior you would expect to see in Italy rather than here in Burgundy.

This tour takes you to a truly historic place. Today one can hardly imagine that about 1,000 years ago Cluny was the religious centre of Europe. Until the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome was finished, the cloister of Cluny was the largest church in Christianity. Visit the remains of the five naves of this stunning church and discover the fascinating way of life of the monks.

The Hameau Dubœuf wine park near Mâcon is dedicated to wine and winemaking. Founded by the leading wine producer in the Beaujolais region, it has become famous around the globe for its unique collection of wine-related artefacts. Demonstrations and audiovisual shows make winegrowing come alive for visitors – and there’ll be an opportunity for you to sample some of the wines too, of course.

The excursion will not take place on the Rhône Route Intensive with departure 29.04.2023.

During your bus tour you will pass wonderful vineyards and the Golden Stones. Since the Middle Ages, castles, churches and houses have been built with the sandstone. Even your first stop, Oingt, has this golden colour. While you stroll through the rustic village, beautiful houses and a medieval fort can be seen. From here you will have a incredible view over the Beaujolais. Your next stop is one of the wine cellars where you can taste famous Beaujolais wines. Here you will experience four centuries of wine culture.

Ready for an exciting adventure? From Viviers the bus will take you to the kayak station. After a briefing with detailed information you will paddle on one of the world's most famous kayak trails. Through calm waters and exciting rapids, you will experience the beautiful landscape. In between, you can have a picnic before you paddle back to the valley station.

What a picture! The magnificent Renaissance castle of Grignan stands out from the lavender fields, visible from afar. The former castle and fortress was converted into a Renaissance chateau in the second half of the 17th century. Almost completely destroyed during the French Revolution, it was partially reconstructed in the 19th century and only completely rebuilt in the 20th century. Today, this jewel is a tourist magnet, as is the collegiate church of Saint-Sauveur with its impressive altar from the 17th century.

Up to 300 metres deep, the Ardèche has carved out the typical limestone, forming one of the most beautiful landscapes in France. This includes the fairy-tale grottos. Along the river you will drive to one of the numerous grottos of the area, such as the Grottes des Madeleines with its subterranean halls. Continuing your trip to one of the lavender producers in the Ardèche-area, you will be shown the different types and species of lavender, as well as their usage in medicine, decoration and perfume production.

A private yacht will meet you in Port Saint Louis and take you off on a very special tour. In this area the Rhône Delta branches out into small arms through the Camargue, creating a unique landscape. In fact, the area is so wet that it’s even possible to grow rice here. During your tour you’ll take in stunning natural scenery and little villages – and you’ll have the chance to discover the famous Camargue horses and bulls. You’ll also sail out to a Mediterranean oyster farm, where you’ll learn all about how these shellfish are bred. And, naturally, there’ll be an opportunity for you to sample some oysters paired with a local wine.

From the ship we take you to the kitesurfing school in Port Saint Louis. Port Saint Louis offers a great place for kitesurfers, in wild nature and with a strong wind, it is a meeting point for all water sports lovers. Once there, you will receive a briefing on professional kitesurfing and all important safety rules. Afterwards, you are ready to go. Let your kite glide through the waves and enjoy the feeling of absolute freedom. An experience for beginners and advanced is waiting for you!

Near the ship is one of the oldest monuments in the city - a lighthouse and watchtower. This is the first stop of the excursion and from the observation deck of the tower, which dates back to 1737, you will have a great view over the small town of Port Saint Louis. Afterwards, you will take the coach to Domaine Attilon, an organic winery in the heart of the Camargue. Here you will explore the winery and production and of course taste the wonderful wines. At the beach in the south of Port Saint Louis, you will briefly enjoy the view of the Mediterranean Sea, before you drive to an oyster farm nearby. The final highlight of this excursion awaits you here. You will learn how organic oysters are bred and processed here, and with another glass of organic wine you will of course be allowed to slurp the fresh oysters. You can't get any closer to the sea.

Your private English-speaking guide will pick you up in front of the ship and show you Arles according to your wishes. Stroll through the most beautiful city in France, at least that's what the French say. Discover the city centre with its numerous Roman buildings or take a look at the amphitheatre. Let the Roman era pass by and experience the city where even Vincent van Gogh spent a year creating numerous masterpieces.

The former seat of government of Friedrich Barbarossa is – together with Marseille – one of the oldest towns in France. The town is widely associated with Vincent Van Gogh too. His stay in Arles was one of his most productive phases for paintings and drawings: he created more than 300 works of art within 15 months. Although none of his works of art are displayed in Arles, Van Gogh’s spirit is all over. Retrace the steps of former times and enjoy the present at the same time. A visit to the amphitheatre should not be missed.

Where land and sea merge, something wonderful is created. The Camargue is a natural wonder. And you will experience it first hand on this bus tour - with its flocks of flamingos and the famous white horses, the fauna is truly unique. Today, the free-roaming white Camargue horses and Camargue cattle are not wild animals anymore, but are kept on wide pastures that are typical for the region. We will continue to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a major pilgrimage site and a touristic hub of the Camargue. The Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer church from the 9th century houses sacred relics of Marie Saloné and Marie Jacobé. Since 1448, a pilgrimage to the church has been held twice per year. The centre of veneration of Saint Sarah, also known as Sara the Black, is also here in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a place of pilgrimage for Roma. After a short walk you will have some free time.

Discover and observe numerous bird species in their natural environment. The Parc Ornithologique covers 60 hectares and is home to the birds of the Camargue. Walk through the park, enjoy the birdsong and hundreds of pink flamingos. Then set off by jeep on a wonderful adventure across the Camargue. The Camargue is an Eldorado for nature lovers and freedom lovers. Say hello to the white wild horses and enjoy the unique nature and beautiful landscapes.

Meet Chef Erick and start your private cooking experience with a walk to the Arles food market. There are several stalls on site selling fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as meat and fish. Together you will stroll through the market and get all the ingredients you need for your cooking class. Afterwards, the cooking can begin. Wield the wooden spoon and prepare a delicious lunch with the help of Chef Erick. We wish you bon appétit!

The Camargue is a paradise not only for the white wild horses, but also for riders. The Mas Saint Germain, a typical ranch in the national park, awaits you and takes you on a one-hour tour through the magnificent landscape. Of course, you will also prepare the horse for your ride and bring it back to their pasture or stable afterwards.

The Camargue is a paradise not only for the white wild horses, but also for riders. The Mas Saint Germain, a typical ranch in the national park, awaits you and takes you on a one-hour tour through the magnificent landscape. Of course, you will also prepare the horse for your ride and bring it back to their pasture or stable afterwards.

Your private English-speaking guide will pick you up in front of the ship and show you Arles according to your wishes. Stroll through the most beautiful city in France, at least that's what the French say. Discover the city centre with its numerous Roman buildings or take a look at the amphitheatre. Let the Roman era pass by and experience the city where even Vincent van Gogh spent a year creating numerous masterpieces.

Meet Chef Erick and start your private cooking experience with a walk to the Arles food market. There are several stalls on site selling fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as meat and fish. Together you will stroll through the market and get all the ingredients you need for your cooking class. Afterwards, the cooking can begin. Wield the wooden spoon and prepare a delicious lunch with the help of Chef Erick. We wish you bon appétit!

The small Alpilles mountain range rises between Avignon and Arles. On its southern slope lies Les Baux-de-Provence, a stronghold of the art of minstrelsy in the Middle Ages. Strolling through the alleys, the turbulent history of this town comes alive again. The view over the plain, above which Les Baux-de-Provence towers like a fortress, is also impressive. From here, the next destination is not that far away - the Carrières des Lumières. This former quarry with its caves now serves as a breathtaking art exhibition where you get the feeling of standing in the middle of a work of art. With light and laser projection, the artworks are thrown onto the cave walls, turning the whole cave into an illuminated work of art.

Today you’ll feel like a VIP. Near Avignon you can climb a Cessna or Piper with a maximum of three people. Such small machines can fly particularly low and are very manoeuvrable, making for an exceptional flying experience. During your 30-minute round trip you will enjoy a unique view of the Pont du Gard, Saint-Rémy, Les Baux, Alpilles and the cities of Beaucaire and Tarascon.

In the 14th century, Avignon was the centre of Christianity. Its cultural richness, as well as monuments and city walls that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, have contributed to Avignon becoming the European Capital of Culture in 2000. Avignon's most famous feature is the bridge sung about in the famous children's song. The Papal Palace with its ornate chambers and chapels is also worth a visit. Visit the multifaceted city with your English-speaking tour guide according to your wishes and preferences.

Enjoy a culinary experience in the heart of Provence for two. At the Michelin-starred restaurant la Mirande, the pleasure of French cuisine awaits you with a 3-course menu. Dine in the restaurant's oldest room, where popes used to dine, and get closer to Avignon's history in a different way.

Information: Closed on Wednesdays - alternative: Restaurant La Vieille Fontaine

Whether through winding alleys, along the city palaces or past churches and chapels - in Avignon all roads lead to the Papal Palace. Pope Clement V settled here at the beginning of the 14th century, followed by other popes and counter-popes. The tour also takes you past the church of Saint-Agricol and the ruins of the Pont d'Avignon.

This excursion is not included in the Basic rate. You can add it for € 19 per person.

From Avignon, we head east into the heart of Provence, to the mountain villages of Gordes and Roussillon. Their old houses nestle against majestic ochre rocks and seem to merge with them. Then discover the "ochre nature trail" - the rocks here offer the visitor a special play of colours. Where the ochre industry once flourished, you will find a landscape in a wide variety of ochre shades - from a radiant yellow to a bright red. Numerous nuances of the ochre tone as well as the play of light and shadow make the sight unforgettable. After a walk through the impressive landscape, we return to the ship.

Today you’ll feel like a VIP. Near Avignon you can climb a Cessna or Piper with a maximum of three people. Such small machines can fly particularly low and are very manoeuvrable, making for an exceptional flying experience. During your 30-minute round trip you will enjoy a unique view of the Pont du Gard, Saint-Rémy, Les Baux, Alpilles and the cities of Beaucaire and Tarascon.

In the 14th century, Avignon was the centre of Christianity. Its cultural richness, as well as monuments and city walls that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, have contributed to Avignon becoming the European Capital of Culture in 2000. Avignon's most famous feature is the bridge sung about in the famous children's song. The Papal Palace with its ornate chambers and chapels is also worth a visit. Visit the multifaceted city with your English-speaking tour guide according to your wishes and preferences.

The 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard is an extraordinary ancient structure. It proudly overlooks the tortuous Gardon Valley, bearing eternal witness to the power of the Roman Empire. Even today, it’s impossible to take in its breath-taking size and impressive architecture without feeling completely awestruck. After a short drive you’ll reach this imposing natural site and visit the impressive aqueduct first. You’ll then have plenty of time to look around the museum, where there is lots to see and discover – even for our youngest guests.

Anyone who is even minimally involved with wine has heard the name before. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the most famous wine-growing towns in the world. After a short bus ride, you will reach the centre of the small town, see some of the famous wineries and then enjoy a sample of this great grape juice. You will learn interesting facts about the region and its wines. You will return directly on board in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where your A-ROSA crew is already waiting for you.

Tournon is a picturesque village on the banks of the Rhône. First mentioned in documents in the 8th century, traces of past times can still be seen in the historic old town. Worth seeing are the castle museum and the collegiate church in late Gothic style. The "Garden of Eden" lies in the middle of the old fortifications and is a green oasis in the centre of Tournon that is popular with tourists. From the terraced garden on a hill, there is a magnificent view of the wine-growing area of Tain l'Hermitage in good weather conditions. A small wine tasting with specially produced wines rounds off this wonderful excursion.

LetŽs go to Gaul! Founded by Julius Caesar over 2,000 years ago, Vienne became the second capital of southern Gaul during the Roman Empire, and temporary imperial residence. Numerous monuments such as the Temple of Augustus and Livia, the garden of the Cybele and an antique theatre are still witnesses to the riches of this period. Also worth a visit are the Tour des Valois with its Romanesque-Gothic Saint-Maurice cathedral with a huge flamboyant window which is located opposite to the city's other sights. From the 4th century until the end of the 18th century it was the seat of the archbishop.

Your guide will be waiting outside the ship to show you how to use your segway. In a small group you will explore the old town of Lyon with its impressive sights and the French lifestyle. After the tour across the peninsula you will return to the ship.

Would you like to explore the old town privately with a tour guide and enjoy a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the Presqu’Île, the city’s peninsula? Your guide will show you around and provide lots of valuable insights. After all, Lyon has so much to offer – and that applies to its cuisine too. Find out where to get the best coussins de Lyon – a sweet speciality made in the city – and much more.

Lyon is a multifaceted city brimming with cultural and culinary delights. It’s up to you to decide what you want to see: the magnificent Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the old town with its legendary traboules (small secret passageways) or perhaps the famous facade paintings on the Presqu’Île, the city’s peninsula. Your driver will take you wherever you’d like to go – and your personal guide will then show you the city’s hidden treasures. You can book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

Join us on the trail of one of the best chefs of the 20th century. Paul Bocuse was the most important pioneer of nouvelle cuisine and internationally known like hardly any other French gastronome. In the centre of Lyon is the Halles Bocuse, one of the most famous markets in Lyon, where locals also go to enjoy the displays on offer. Feast your way from stall to stall and enjoy the French delicacies. For example, excellent cheese and delicious white wine at Mons, where over 100 different types of cheese are on offer. Of course, the tasting of oysters, French charcuterie (delicatessen meats), chocolate and macarons is not to be missed.

What better way to get to know French cuisine than with a private cooking class? Discover French delicacies up close with us! Near Bellecoure, your chef is waiting for you. Once you arrive at the restaurant, you will start preparing the dishes and learn about the specialities of French cuisine and how to prepare them. Discover your passion for French cooking and enjoy a delicious meal!

The indoor food market of Lyon is named after Paul Bocuse – and with good reason. This star chef was based in Lyon and so he often shopped here. There are plenty of tasty specialities for you to sample here. But France’s second-largest metropolis has a lot more to offer beyond that. Your tour will continue through the city centre, where you’ll take in some wonderful sights.

After a 45-minute drive, you will reach one of the most spectacular places in France: Pérouges. The image of the town, founded in pre-Christian times, is characterised today by medieval buildings. Because of its historical flair, several filmmakers have already shot here. And when you stand on the cobbled village square, you will feel like you are in a medieval film yourself.