Cruise in France’s intoxicating South
Savour a sensory journey through this gastronomic region
FRANCE inspires travellers with its life-enhancing culture, woven around cafe terraces, village square markets and lacecurtained bistros with their plat du jour displayed on the board.
With fabulous food, an intriguing history and a knack of embracing the beauty of the moment through simple, everyday rituals such as fresh morning baguettes and long, alfresco lunches, it’s little wonder that France welcomes more visitors each year than anywhere else on earth.
The seductive South is especially beautiful. Its fragrant lavender fields, lush vineyards, ancient castles and Roman ruins are bathed in an intoxicating southern light that has attracted artists from Matisse to Van Gogh and Cezanne. RICH IN CULTURE AN EMERALD Waterways Sensations of Southern France itinerary will take you on a sensory journey to the very heart of this gorgeous region, via the serene Rhone and Saone rivers.
Journey from Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, to Arles, the peaceful retreat of Van Gogh and site of a 2,000year-old Roman amphitheatre that’s still in use today. Other highlights include Avignon’s magnificent Palais des Papes, a tour of Tournon, with its imposing 16th-century castle, and the prestigious Burgundy wine region.
Your floating boutique hotel will be the fabulous Emerald Liberte Star-Ship, which debuted this year and mirrors the effortless sophistication and beauty of the French countryside she navigates.
Enjoy the wonderful scenery and Mediterranean climate from the panoramic sundeck, where barbecues are held.
Wine and dine alfresco on The Terrace. And call at some of Southern France’s most culturally rich and enigmatic cities, prosperous towns and ancient villages.
The standards of service, attention to food and knowledge of wine you’d expect in France are sewn into the very essence of the award-winning Emerald Liberte, providing a relaxed onboard experience comparable with a worldclass boutique hotel.
A retractable glass roof winds back to reveal a swimming pool, transforming into a cosy cinema at night, for example. Gym and spa facilities are available. And the Reflections Restaurant is a charming setting for a gala dinner and daily five-course dining, with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks available during meals.
With a capacity of 138 guests and 43 crew and a series of cutting-edge amenities, the Emerald Liberte represents the next generation of river cruising.