 4* South of France winter sunshine river cruise itineraryDay 1 Beaune Selected early morning coach pick-ups and a journey to Dover/Folkestone for the 7.00am ferry/Eurotunnel crossing to Calais. Alternatively, join at port or at the Holiday Inn Ashford North. From Calais we continue south through Burgundy, a land of rolling hills, vineyards and turreted châteaux, to Beaune, the historic wine capital of Burgundy, for a one-night stay with dinner and breakfast included. Day 2 Arles Depart the hotel after breakfast and continue south, stopping for a visit to Lyon, France’s dazzling second capital. We continue along the famous autoroute du Soleil and through the glorious Provençal landscape to the city of Arles, where you’ll join the 4: MS Van Gogh for a three-night stay with full board. This evening, perhaps explore Arles and its many World Heritage sights. Those taking the air option will fly direct from the UK to France, joining the vessel here following a coach transfer from their airport of arrival. Day 3 Avignon This morning we will cruise to the ancient papal capital of Avignon for free time. After an included lunch, enjoy more free time in the city, or join our optional excursion to Saint-Rémy and Les Baux en Provence, two undisputed stars of the Côte d'Azur. Day 4 Arles This morning we cruise back to Arles, for the opportunity to explore this fine city by day. Don’t miss the Palace Constantine, or the Church of St. Trophime, complete with exquisitely carved saints and apostles. After lunch, why not join an optional excursion to Pont du Gard and Nîmes. Following dinner, enjoy the farewell party night on board. Day 5 Dijon Disembark the vessel after an early breakfast as we travel north for a one-night stay with dinner and breakfast in Dijon, the capital of Burgundy and home to truly exceptional architectural heritage and nationally classed monuments. Those taking the air option will transfer directly to the airport for the return flight to the UK. Day 6 UK This morning we head north through the great chalky plains of the Champagne region, passing the ancient cities of Reims and Troyes, home to the world’s lightest, most subtly flavoured wines with names such as Möet et Chandon, Krug, Bollinger and Veuve Clicquot. Join the 6.30pm return crossing to Dover. Upon arrival you will be returned to your original point of departure. Timings are correct at time of publish but may be subject to change. Final timings will be confirmed with your joining instructions. 
 |