Provence - E-Bike & Boat

Day 1: Lyon
Day 2: Tain l'Hermitage - Tournon, Via Rhona, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 3: Avignon - Châteauneuf-du-Pape - Avignon, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 4: Arles - Tarascon - St. Remy - Les Baux - Arles, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 5: Tour through the Camargue, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 6: The Ardèche Gorge, 24 mi. (38 km)
Day 7: Lyon City Bike Tour, 14 mi. (22 km)
Day 8: Departure from Lyon or extension

*All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change, at times without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Arrival in Lyon
Welcome to Lyon! Your adventure begins at 4 pm when your friendly tour guides greet you on board. After settling into your cabin, you'll receive a comprehensive overview of your exciting journey ahead. If the weather permits, enjoy the sun deck for a warm welcome and stunning views of the landscape. As the ship departs Lyon at 6 pm, enjoy your first dinner on board while cruising the tranquil waters of the Saône. Later, immerse yourself in Lyon's enchanting atmosphere with a panoramic evening cruise, showcasing the city's historic landmarks and charming streets illuminated under the night sky. Get ready to experience the rich culture and beauty that awaits on this unforgettable journey.

Day 2: Tain l'Hermitage - Tournon, Via Rhona, 28 mi. (45 km)
Kickstart your cycling adventure along the Rhône, from Tain-l'Hermitage to Roche de Glun island near Valence and back. Marvel at the dam, the 14th-century Diane de Poitiers tower, and the iconic Marc Seguin footbridge. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the renowned Valrhona chocolate in Tain-l'Hermitage. In the afternoon, relax on the sun deck as the STELLA sails south, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

Day 3: Avignon Bridge & Wine from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 28 mi. (45 km)
In the early morning, the STELLA docks in Avignon, where your e-bikes will be waiting for you at the pier after breakfast. Cycle through the fertile fruit and vegetable growing region along the Rhône to the famous village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. After a refreshing lunch break, you'll gain insight into the production of the region's exquisite red wines during a wine tasting. Afterward, you'll bid farewell to the world-renowned vineyards and, on your way back to Avignon, pass one of the largest islands in the Rhône, cycling on comfortable paths to the famous Bridge of Avignon. Admire the iconic "Pont d'Avignon," a symbol of the city's medieval festivals, where lively parties once took place under its arches. Did you know that the famous song "Sur le pont d'Avignon" should actually be called "Sous le pont d'Avignon"? 

Immerse yourself in Avignon's rich history with a fascinating city tour. Discover how the popes resided for nearly 70 years not in Rome, but in the secluded gardens of the Cathedral Rock, where they experienced the so-called "Babylonian Captivity" during the time of the antipopes. The ship remains docked in Avignon overnight, giving you ample time to stroll through the narrow streets of this historic city after dinner. Explore the picturesque alleys and savor the charming atmosphere. Third overnight stay and dinner on board. 

Day 4: Arles & St. Rémy de Provence, 40 mi. (65 km)
Waking up in Arles, you'll hop on your e-bikes again and head to the picturesque St. Rémy de Provence, where Vincent Van Gogh once lived. Enjoy a delicious lunch before visiting the Carrières de Lumières, an art center showcasing spectacular exhibitions. Continue your ride through scenic Provençal villages and arrive back in Arles, renowned for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater. In the evening, consider exploring the Romanesque portal of the Saint Trophime Cathedral or savoring an espresso at Café de la Nuit, made famous by Van Gogh.

Day 5: Tour through the Camargue, 40 mi. (65 km)
Cycle out of the lively city and onto the Via Rhôna, heading into the heart of the Camargue, a stunning wetland region in the Rhône Delta. Ride past vast salt flats, where towering white salt mountains shine in the sun—part of one of Europe’s largest salt fields. The route takes you through expansive rice fields and into the peaceful Camargue Nature Reserve. Enjoy the salty air and the rich wildlife: flamingos, herons, bee-eaters, and even rare black storks. Look out for the iconic white Camargue horses, descendants of an ancient breed still herded today by traditional Gardians with their black bulls. End your ride in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a charming coastal town, before returning to the ship in the afternoon.

Day 6: The Majestic Ardèche Gorge, 24 mi. (38 km)
In the morning, enjoy scenic views of Côtes du Rhône vineyards as you head to the Ardèche gorge. Experience one of the most captivating cycling routes, learning about the UNESCO World Heritage cave systems along the way. Cycle through lavender fields and holm oak forests until you reach the breathtaking gorge. After a day of exploration, relax on the sun deck or indulge in the onboard spa before savoring an exquisite final dinner as the ship sails back to Lyon overnight.

Day 7: Lyon City Bike Tour, 14 mi. (22 km)
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning on board as the ship returns to Lyon. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour of Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the Renaissance houses of St. Jean and explore the narrow passageways known as "traboules", steeped in history. Learn about Lyon’s significance as a trading center since Roman times, with hidden treasures like artwork by famous artists waiting to be discovered.

Day 8: Departure from Lyon or Extension
As morning light fills Lyon, enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking around 9 am. If you're flying out, a convenient transfer to the airport is available (at an additional cost). Conclude your unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of Southern France, filled with memories of breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.

• Stella

  Deluxe

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  4.6 out of 5 (8 Reviews)

  View Boat

  Deluxe Class Boat

  Electric Bike

  Kreidler, Velo de Ville, or similar … • Aluminum step-through frame … • Upright riding position … • Shimano Nexus 5-speed freewheel … • Comfort Selle Royal gel saddle … • Shimano disc brakes … •… Read More

  This ship was built for relaxation but also for active-minded vacationers! On the spacious sun deck, you will find an outdoor pool, shuffleboard, and a putting green as well as an outdoor restaurant and cafe bar with coffee specialties, wine, and refreshments. Read More