WINE, DINE AND ADORE THE VIEW

START your cruise with an overnight onboard stay in Lyon, and a full day to enjoy the city's rich culinary heritage, where small, friendly, traditional restaurants in the cobbled streets of the gastronomic old town, known as 'bouchons', serve old-fashioned dishes and local wines. Discover Burgundy's famous wine region at Chalon-sur-Saone and visit the 15th-century Hospices de Beaune. At half-timbered Macon, you could take a cycle ride on one of the ship's bikes. Try local wines in town, and cheeses and olives on board, or opt to visit the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny. There's onboard wine tasting at Tournon, which has a 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. Avignon's stunning medieval Palais des Papes is an architectural masterpiece that sheltered medieval popes. Alternatively, opt to visit the Roman Pont du Gard. There's also a chance to enjoy a yoga lesson on board here — and a Provencal dinner hosted by a popular local chef. At Arles, explore the Roman amphitheatre, on a walking tour with an expert, English-speaking local guide, before your included return flight to a choice of regional UK airports, on day eight. Much more is included on this delectable cruise through gastronomic southern France, making for excellent value. As well as flights and luxurious stateroom accommodation, the fare includes six of those eye-opening shore excursions, five activities such as cheese and olive tasting, entertainment, 20 delicious onboard meals with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks, as well as onboard tea, coffee and bottled water, wi-fi, bicycles and tips, which alone can save you up to £235 per couple. And throughout your cruise, you'll notice how each member of the crew maintains the perfect balance of friendly and professional, as they ensure every aspect of your time on board the beautiful Emerald Liberte runs smoothly. It all makes for the most fabulous river cruise through thig intoxicating reaion of France.