Gourmet Christmas along the Rhône - Between traditions, historical discoveries, and indulgent moments (port-to-port cruise)
From €
1135.00
Immerse yourself in Christmas traditions during a cruise through fascinating cities. In Viviers, savor the authenticity of its medieval heritage and traditional nativity scenes. Then, let yourself be enchanted by the charm of the Château de Charmes, near Tain l'Hermitage, where history and elegance intertwine in a magical setting. Finally, succumb to the magic of Lyon, where twinkling streets, festive gastronomy, and local craftsmanship bring the Christmas spirit to life in a city rich in history and culture.
Trip Code:
NLY_PP
Duration:
5
DAYS
DAY
1
December 21st: LYON
Boarding at 3:00 PM and departure for navigation towards Tain-L’Hermitage. Introduction of the crew and welcome cocktail. Night navigation.
DAY
2
December 22nd: TAIN-L'HERMITAGE - VIVIERS
In the morning, optional excursion: visit and tasting at Château de Charmes. Departure by coach to Château de Charmes, located in the commune of Charmes-sur-l'Herbasse. You will glimpse a gently rolling landscape dotted with woods, cultivated fields, and picturesque villages. Dating back to the 11th century, the castle stands out with its tall stone towers, battlements, and robust walls, all witnesses to its rich medieval past. During this festive season, each room is beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations, and every corner of the castle seems enveloped in the magic of the holidays, offering a complete immersion in the Christmas spirit. To conclude the visit, indulge in a tasting offered by the château.
Return on board for lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic navigation. The river passes through the most authentic landscapes of the region. Attend a lecture on Christmas traditions in Provence and the famous thirteen Christmas desserts. A presentation and tasting of these sweets that crown the hearty Christmas meal in Provence. Tradition dictates that the thirteen desserts be served abundantly, and each guest should sample this assortment of treats, including dried fruits, fresh fruits, nougats, figs, fougasse, etc. Arrival in Viviers in the evening.
DAY
3
December 23rd: VIVIERS - LYON
In the morning, optional excursion: Viviers and visit to a nougat-making workshop. Viviers, the third protected area in the Rhône-Alpes region and residence of bishops since the 5th century, is like an open-air architecture museum, where each page of history is etched in stone. Then, depart by coach for a visit to a nougat-making workshop in Montélimar. Immerse yourself in the art of crafting this iconic sweet, a must-have treat for the holiday season. During this experience, you will discover the secrets of this traditional delicacy, made with local ingredients: almonds, honey, eggs... Part of the thirteen Christmas desserts in Provence, nougat symbolizes tradition and sweet pleasure. Finally, you will have the opportunity to taste this homemade nougat, which perfectly evokes the magic and warmth of Christmas. Return on board for lunch.
Navigate towards Lyon.
Enjoy this moment to admire the long riverbanks, terraced vineyards, and the rolling landscapes shaped by the surrounding hills. In the mid-afternoon, head to the lounge/bar for a Christmas karaoke session. You can sing the classic Christmas songs.
Gala evening.
DAY
4
December 24th: LYON
In the morning, optional excursion: the crypt of the Basilica of Fourvière, Old Lyon, and its traboules.(3)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the crypt of the Basilica of Fourvière stands out with its neo-Byzantine architectural style, featuring mosaics, columns, and decorated vaults that echo the aesthetics of the main basilica above. Upon entering the basilica, be amazed by its majestic interior: the sparkling gilding, the colorful stained glass windows casting soft light, and the delicately painted frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Also discover the Crèche des Lyonnais, a unique work highlighting the Christian figures of Lyon with santons, creating an atmosphere full of spirituality and wonder. Then, explore Old Lyon and its traboules. One of the largest Renaissance neighborhoods in Europe, with its secret passageways and cobbled streets.
In the early afternoon, included excursion: Cirque Imagine: Christmas show. In a warm and magical atmosphere, you will be transported by a performance combining breathtaking acrobatics, elegant aerial acts, spectacular juggling, and charming clowns. Under sparkling lights and the sound of captivating music, talented artists will perform feats that will leave the audience in awe.
Return to the ship.
For those interested, enjoy the rest of the afternoon discovering the nearby Christmas markets.
Return on board to prepare for the Christmas Eve dinner. After the meal, you can attend the Christmas Mass in Lyon.(2)
DAY
5
December 25th: LYON
Brunch on board. Disembarkation at 11:00 a.m. End of our services.
