A treat for the senses
Rediscover your love of France on a river cruise
FROM the enticing scent of a perfectly ripened brie to the calming aroma of Provencal lavender, nowhere in the world tantalises the senses quite like France.
This glorious land overflows with wonders to taste, see, smell and feel, offering discerning travellers a holiday overflowing with enriching moments.
There’s no better way to rediscover your love of beautiful France than by taking a luxurious five-star cruise on one of its legendary waterways.
Lead your senses on a journey based around a tantalising culture, gastronomy and heritage.
On the best river cruises, you’ll discover delicious sides of the French lifestyle that pass other tourists by.
How about a truffle hunt with highly trained hounds, in a village near Tournus? It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy the truffles’ hypnotic and earthy aroma — and then sample their evocative and intensely flavourful essence on board while cruising on the Saone.
Love the smell of lavender? Breathe in its calming scent as your cruise ship sails through Provence. Learn how the flowers are harvested and used, while sampling a glass of lavender lemonade at a unique museum.
And chocoholics are in for a worldclass tasting session at the Cite du Chocolat — as the Valrhona artisan chocolate workshop is known.
There you can savour the flavour of rare cocoa beans grown on masterfully selected terroir.
On top of such gastronomic delights, some of the best cruises also thrill the senses with beautiful architecture, complemented by classical music.
On a Rhone cruise, soak up the atmosphere at a former papal residence in Avignon, while experiencing an exclusive concert. The Unescolisted Palais des Papes is the largest Gothic palace in Europe.
At Lyon’s spectacular Trinity Chapel, witness a masterful acapella choir giving an exclusive performance. And Chateau d’Agassac, a beautiful Medoc wine estate, is the venue for a magical evening of music, as part of a Bordeaux cruise.
Life on board a luxurious, fivestar river vessel, such as a Scenic Space-Ship, is a sense-pleasing treat in itself. Float along in exceptional luxury, enjoying such treats as lavish tasting menus featuring regional flavours, paired with local wines.
To round off an indulgent dinner, perhaps try a sharp and tangy Roquefort from the ship’s cheese cellar, which provides a culinary odyssey of its own. And true gourmands can create their own dishes at an onboard cookery school, Scenic Culinaire.
Shop with a chef at a local market bursting with fresh produce, then cook up your own gastronomic feast, with expert help.