From the lavender fields of Provence to the vineyards of Burgundy, the unspoilt countryside of the South of France is idyllic. Soaked in both sunshine and history, it's a wonderful place to explore on a river cruise.
On this eight-day trip, you'll see the best of the region glide past from the comfort of your luxury Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. On board, you'll be joined by two of the UK's top antiques experts, Paul Martin, star of BBC's Flog It!, and Hilary Kay, who has been a member of the Antiques Roadshow team for an incredible 43 years.
In what is sure to be a highlight of your trip, Hilary will join you to go searching for antiques in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue flea market. She will also set you a bargain hunting challenge. Paul will host an exclusive cocktail evening and gala dinner on board and give an exclusive talk before taking part in a Q&A session.
Setting sail from Arles and travel along the Rhône, you'll stop at the charming towns of Avignon, Viviers, Tournon and Chalon-sur- Saône before disembarking in Lyon. You'll enjoy all-inclusive meals on board, including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner as well as wonderful included excursions.
Hilary worked for Sotheby's as a Senior Director for over 20 years, taking her first auction at the age of 21 and becoming Sotheby's youngest ever auctioneer. She joined the Antiques Roadshow team of experts in 1979.
Paul Martin was discovered when he was interviewed about his passion for oak furniture. He was signed up on the spot and has since presented Flog It! for more than 20 years and 1,000 episodes. His other TV shows include Britain's Hidden Heritage, Paul Martin's Handmade Revolution, Make Me A Dealer and Curiosity
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your ship in Arles. Tonight enjoy your first dinner on board. If you'd prefer not to fly, return travel via Eurostar is also available.
Discover the glory of the Roman Empire today during a visit to Arles, including the UNESCO World Heritage- listed monuments of Arles and Arles Amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old structure. Today you'll also join Antiques Roadshow presenter, Hilary Kay, for an exclusive trip to Arles' fabulous flea market.
Today you'll visit Avignon and discover its rich history. Your guided walk will take you through its centre, overlooking the famous 'Pont d'Avignon'. You'll also take in the Gothic exterior of the Palais des Papes.
Viviers is home to one of France's oldest cathedrals. Pastel-coloured buildings that have been gently faded by the sun line the streets, and you'll have ample time to explore the old town during a guided walking tour.
Sail into Tournon, dominated by a 16th-century castle overlooking the village. If you're feeling active you can also join a guided bike tour to Glun.
Many of the most important moments in French history have taken place in Lyon, a former Roman capital. You'll enjoy a guided tour, starting with a drive to the UNESCO World Heritage- listed Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon's hilltop church. You'll then pass by the recently rediscovered Roman amphitheatre and walk through the cobbled streets of the gastronomic old town. This evening Paul Martin will join you on board for a cocktail reception and gala dinner.
Discover the birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy's wine region in Beaune. This evening, Paul Martin will give an exclusive talk on his life and career in antiques followed by a Q&A session.
After breakfast you'll disembark and begin your journey home.
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