Itineraries

Vallée du Rhone - Saône - Provence (Central and Southern France)

The Napoléon cruises the Vallée du Rhône between Arles and Tain l’Hermitage a region full of sophisticated architecture dating back to the Roman civilization and ruins of fortifications, arenas and aqueducts. 

The endless vistas of tiled roofs, lavender fields and olive groves are all synonymous with this region. Excursions are arranged to the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus and the ancient Roman and Greek ruins of Pont-du-Gard.

2008/2009 Schedule
April-October, annual

Prices

Quoted prices are from and may vary depending on the season.
Private hire for up to 12 passengers or individual bookings, based on double occupancy.

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What’s Included

• 6 nights accommodation on board your péniche-hôtel
• Breakfast, lunch and candlelit dinner each day
• Refreshments on board after excursions
• Wine with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board
• Sightseeing excursions, including entrance fees
• Use of bicycles
• Air-conditioned mini-van with driver for sightseeing  

Gratuities and Insurance are not included.


Sample a Journey
Tain L’Hermitage To Arles aboard The Napoléon 

Sunday - Paris to Tain l'Hermitage/Tournon
Depart Paris Gare de Lyon in the afternoon on the TGV train. On arrival at Valence, you are met by the Afloat in France guide and transferred to the barge at Tain l'Hermitage or Tournon. A champagne reception gives you a chance to meet the crew. Once settled on-board, enjoy your first wine tasting at Mr Ferraton's winery. 

Monday - Cruise to Viviers
Relax on the top deck and watch the beautiful scenery of the Rhône Valley glide by as the barge cruise to Viviers. Mid-afternoon, your guide takes you on a walking tour of this charming medieval town before returning to the boat to play traditional Provençal game "Petanque".

Tuesday - Visit Nyons. Cruise to St. Etienne des Sorts
This morning the barge cruises the final section of the Canal du Centre befor entering the last and very deep lock which takes you from the canal into the River Saône. The scenery changes from the close proximity of the canal banks to the expanse of the beautiful river. Drive to Lavemois for lunch at the famous Relais & Châteaux hotel. This afternoon's visit is to Beaune, capital of the wine region of Burgundy. Enjoy a visit to the famous Hotel-Dieu, Hospice de Beaune followed by a private wine tasting at Domaine Joseph Drouhin's wine cellar.

Wednesday - Visit Cluny, Cruise to Mâcon.
This morning the barge cruises towards Mâcon. After lunch, visit the Abbey of Cluny, the centre of a major monastic reform movement in the Middle Ages and the largest church in the world for many centuries. Tonight's mooring is Mâcon, a thriving market town bordering both the Mâconnais and the Beaujolais vineyards.

Thursday - Cruise to Montmerle.  Visit Beaujolais region.
Drive to the Roche de Solutré, a picturesque site with a superb view of Mâcon, the River Saône and the Pouilly-Fuissé vineyards.  Back on board for lunch followed by a tour of the Beaujolais region, known for its vineyards and gastronomy.  Your guide has wine tasting on the agenda.

Friday - Cruise to Lyon. Visit Lyon.
Today’s visit is Lyon, a cultural, historic and gastronomic centre little known outside of France. Dominating the city is the splendidly ornate Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. The standard of Lyon's shopping facilities is renowned for its quality and includes many chic boutiques. Farewell gala dinner on board.

Saturday - Lyon to Paris.
After breakfast disembark and transfer to the Lyon station. Board the TGV to Paris, Gare de Lyon, where you are met by the Afloat in France representative who will assist you with your luggage.


More about the barge  |  Info & Booking Request