Les Bateaux: Avignon to La Voulte-sur-Rhône with Belmond

Fly from the UK to Avignon, where a private transfer will take you to your luxury Belmond barge, Napoléon, on the River Rhône. Raise a glass of chilled champagne as you are welcomed on board by your crew and guide. After settling into your cabin, enjoy your first dinner on board, showcasing seasonal cuisine, carefully selected wines and views of the Provençal countryside.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

This morning, visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the former summer residence of the Avignon popes and one of France's most celebrated wine-producing regions. Continue with a tasting at a private winery renowned for its distinguished red wines. This afternoon, discover the impressive Pont du Gard, the Roman aqueduct that once carried spring water from Uzès to Nîmes. There is also an opportunity to swim in the clear waters flowing beneath this extraordinary historic monument. Return to Napoléon for aperitifs and dinner on board.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

Following breakfast, you may choose to join a walking tour of Arles. Home to remarkable Roman remains, elegant boulevards and colourful architecture, the town famously inspired Vincent van Gogh during his stay here between 1888 and 1889. Return to the barge for lunch as you cruise back towards Avignon. This evening, enjoy dinner at a charming local restaurant.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

Today, join Chef Jonathan Cheri for a memorable culinary experience. Begin with a visit to the vibrant Les Halles market, selecting fresh local ingredients for a traditional Provençal meal. Back in the kitchen, learn how to prepare regional dishes featuring fragrant herbs de Provence and seasonal produce. Afterwards, enjoy your creations over lunch, accompanied by a glass of local wine. Later, spend time exploring Avignon independently, perhaps visiting the impressive Palais des Papes, browsing the shops or relaxing in one of the city's cafés. Dinner is served on board in Roquemaure this evening.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

Relax on board this morning as you cruise through the Bollène lock. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before arriving in Viviers, a small medieval town rich in history and character. Later, visit a traditional Provençal lavender farm, where the vibrant colours and distinctive scents of the region come to life. Return to Napoléon for dinner, followed by a peaceful evening on board.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

This morning, your guide may recommend an excursion to Grignan, a village known for its abundance of wild roses. Continue with a tasting at a renowned truffle farm before enjoying lunch in a local restaurant. Later, return to the barge for an evening cruise, followed by a farewell dinner on board.

Stay: Belmond Barge Napoleon (Deluxe)

After breakfast, disembark and bid farewell to your crew. A transfer will take you to Avignon Airport for your return flight to the UK.