Burgundy & Provence

River Cruise 2026

July 21 – 28, 2026 | Avalon Waterways

Hosted by Travel Your Way with Renee, LLC

A Hosted Journey Through the South of France

Sun-kissed Provence, rolling vineyards, and silky French nights set the scene for an unforgettable week along the Rhône and Saône Rivers. This is more than a cruise, it’s a hosted journey with me as your onboard concierge. Together, we’ll explore Roman amphitheaters, medieval villages, and the gastronomic capital of Lyon. You’ll choose your pace each day with options to walk, hike, bike, taste, and even paint like Van Gogh in the landscapes he adored.

With Avalon’s spacious suites and choice of Active, Discovery, or Classic excursions, you can tailor each day to your style. I’ll be there to help you pick the perfect tours, sprinkle in a few surprises, and make sure you feel taken care of from start to finish.

✨ Special offer: Choose free roundtrip airfare or $1,500 savings per person (capacity controlled, subject to change).

Daily overview

  • Welcome to France! Board your Avalon ship in Arles, a city steeped in Roman history and artistic legacy.

    Stroll its charming streets, see the ancient amphitheater, and imagine Van Gogh capturing its colors in his brushstrokes.

    Settle into your stateroom before enjoying dinner and meeting your fellow travelers.

  • Choose how you’d like to explore:

    1. Join a guided walk through the city’s Roman treasures

    2. Hike with your Adventure Host

    3. Take part in a painting workshop inspired by Van Gogh.

    Later, sip a glass of wine at Le Café Van Gogh before we sail to Avignon.

  • Step inside the fortress city of Avignon with a guided tour of the Papal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Optional excursions include a visit to the Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard or a tasting at the cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

    In the evening, explore the Christmas-card charm of Avignon’s streets and enjoy live entertainment onboard.

  • Sail leisurely to the medieval village of Viviers.

    Walk with your Adventure Host to the hilltop cathedral or take a guided tour through narrow streets lined with pale-stone houses.

    With its Romanesque cathedral and mix of Roman and medieval influences, Viviers feels like stepping back in time.

  • Wake up surrounded by vineyards.

    Take a guided walk through Tournon, one of France’s oldest medieval cities, complete with a 16th-century castle overlooking the Rhône.

    Active guests may join a hike into the hills. In the afternoon, cruise to Lyon, where we’ll dock overnight.

  • Known as the culinary capital of France, Lyon is a feast for the senses.

    Join a guided tour that takes you to Fourvière Hill, Old Town’s traboules (hidden passageways), and lively squares.

    Or explore by bike, crossing bridges over the Rhône and Saône rivers. In the evening, sail toward Tournus.

  • Journey into the rolling landscapes of Burgundy’s Mâconnais region.

    Discover the world of Chardonnay at a medieval castle wine tasting, then return to the ship for a special onboard cheese tasting.

    Celebrate your final evening with live entertainment as we dock in Chalon-sur-Saône.

  • After breakfast, disembark in Chalon-sur-Saône.

    Flights should depart Lyon airport after 8 am.

    Extend your journey with optional nights in Burgundy or Paris.

Cabins & Pricing

(Per person, double occupancy. Solo travelers benefit from a waived single supplement on this sailing!)

  • Deluxe Stateroom: from $4,930 | 172 sq ft | lower deck, fixed windows

  • Panorama Suite: from $6,729 | 200 sq ft | upper decks, wall-to-wall panorama windows

  • Royal Suite: from $8,629 | 300 sq ft | top deck, panorama windows, seating area

What’s Included

  • 7 nights aboard Avalon Waterways with all meals and drinks

  • Daily choice of Active, Discovery, or Classic excursions

  • Hosted group with me onboard for personal support and insider tips

  • Onboard entertainment, Wi-Fi, port charges, and taxes

  • Special offer: free roundtrip airfare OR $1,500 off per person

Optional Trip Extensions

  • Provence pre-nights in Arles or Avignon

  • Burgundy post-nights near Beaune

  • Paris add-on with museum passes and a Seine cruise

Who This Is Perfect For

  • Travelers who want France without packing and unpacking

  • Foodies eager to savor Lyon, Burgundy wines, and Provençal markets

  • Active explorers who enjoy biking, hiking, and discovery tours

  • Creatives who dream of painting where Van Gogh found inspiration

  • Friends who want a hosted journey where all the details are handled

FAQs

How active is this trip? Choose your pace daily—easy walks, guided hikes, or cycling.
Dietary needs? Avalon can accommodate with advance notice.
Do I need to pre-book tours? I’ll help you prioritize; many can be chosen onboard.
Travel insurance? Strongly recommended—I’ll provide quotes.
Gratuities and extras? I’ll include full guidance in your documents.

Ready to Reserve Your Cabin?

✨ Space is limited for this hosted departure on July 21, 2026.

Schedule a quick planning call—I’ll walk you through cabin options and current promotions.