2024 Essence of Burgundy & Provence with River Cruise with Colin James Blues Trio

Indulge in French flavours on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Visit French châteaux from Provence to Burgundy, visit the Papal Palace in Avignon and taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon. Delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop and uncover the Roman history of Chalon sur Saône.

You’ll get more than just a taste of Burgundy and Provence, add in the incredible intimate performances of the Colin James Blues Trio, and the memories of this exclusive cruise will linger in your heart for a lifetime!

Day 1: Arles, France

Embark your ship in Arles, France for your Essence of Burgundy & Provence river cruise. (D) MEET AND GREET WITH COLIN JAMES, CHRIS CADDELL, & STEVE MARRINER

Day 2: Arles - Avignon

Arles is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Let your experienced guide lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheatre. Or, if you wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. Alternatively, you may take a guided bike tour through town. Later in the day, enjoy a walking tour in Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” which includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic centre of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more flavorful experience, visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialities including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. In the evening, enjoy a short cruise to Avignon where you will see Pont d’Avignon bridge, illuminated against the night sky. (B,L,D) INTIMATE PERFORMANCE BY COLIN JAMES TRIO

Day 3: Viviers

Viviers is a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th and 18th-century monuments. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle-friendly city. Alternatively, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. Or, go on a scenic hike and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers. Conclude the day’s adventure with a panoramic cruise around the historical city. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Vienne - Lyon

Vienne boasts a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. There you can enjoy a guided walking tour around the city. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the Via Rhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. Later in the day, discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th century basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district,where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self described foodie, our Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active on a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Mâcon

Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Later in the day, enjoy a panoramic view from the Sun Deck as you sail to Tournus, or opt for a bike ride from Mâcon to Tournus. Or, enjoy a delicious tasting of the region’s famous white Mâconnais wines. (B,L,D) SONGWRITERS' CIRCLE with COLIN JAMES TRIO

Day 6: Tournus

Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore Tournus. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Later in the day, enjoy scenic cruising as you sail toward Chalon Sur Saône, or opt for a bike tour if you’re feeling adventurous. (B,L,D) INTIMATE PERFORMANCE BY COLIN JAMES TRIO

Day 7:  Chalon Sur Saône

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon Sur Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You’ll also stop at a local market where you can see and taste some of the local fare. Alternatively, choose an excursion in Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic tiled roof of the Hôtel Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Later in the day, treat your palate to a tasting of Chalonnaise wines. (B,L,D) FUNDRAISING DINNER WITH COLIN JAMES BLUES TRIO FOR HOSPICE PEI

Day 8: Dijon

Disembark your ship and prepare for your return flight home. (B)

*Scheduling of Artists' performances/appearances subject to change

Legend: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner