Tastes of Southern France with Gabriel Gaté

Welcome to Lyon.

Upon arrival, transfer to the Scenic Sapphire where your crew await to welcome you on board. Settle into your luxurious suite and get aquainted with your Scenic Space-Ship as you embark on a 10 night cruise through the glorious south of France accompanied by acclaimed chef and cook book author Gabriel Gate. (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. This evening join Gabriel for a cocktail party in the Panorama Lounge and Bar before enjoying a highlight dinner on board. Tonight, 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, or take a tour of Beaune, including les Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital dating back to the Middle-Ages. Alternatively join Gabriel Gate on an exploration of the local produce markets. Walk the cobbled town square and take in the sights and tastes of the Burgundy region, or tour a prestigious wine estate, before tasting its premium wines (B/L/D)

As the Scenic Sapphire sails south towards Tain L'Hermitage join Gabriel in the Panorama lounge where he will host a fascinating talk on French cuisine. Freechoice: Surrounded by sloping vineyards, walk through this quaint town and sample local Côtes wines at the Côtes du Rhône vineyard, Chapoutier. Chapoutier is one of the oldest vineyards in the region that date back over 2,000 years, 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. 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 (maximum group size applies). 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)

Today why not join, Gabriel Gate as he hosts a cooking demonstration in the Panorama Lounge. Learn how to make delicious a French dish from an expert chef. 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. Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change (B)