Rhône River Journey C 'est L a Belle Vie: LYON TO AVIGNON ABOARD THE S.S. CATHERINE - Connoisseurs Tours
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C ’e st L a B elle Vi e :
Rhône River Jour ne y
LY O N T O A V I G N O N
A B O A R D T H E S . S . C AT H E R I N E
September 2 to 12, 2021
with an optional extension to the Côte d‘Azur
C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 1: Depart the U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Lyon
Day 3: Behind the Scenes Lyon Exploration & En Chau
Day 4: Embark on the S.S. Catherine
Day 5: Mâcon (Beaune)
Day 6: A Return to Lyon’s Secret Passageways
Day 7: Tournon
Day 8: Viviers
Day 9: Avignon & Villeneuve
Day 10: Arles and the Ambassador’s Garden
Day 11: Disembarkation & Return Home
Featuring the splendor of quintessential southeast From iconic landscapes designed in Tuscan
France, this journey is inspired by Dame, Edith Huntly Renaissance, Mediterranean and Provençal styles, to
Stickney, who has graciously opened her Petite Maison the western end of Les Alpilles, to the private gardens
En Chou to fellow Dames and their guests. Together, of a former American ambassador, we experience an
we follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and elegance not accessible to the average traveler.
Gauguin on this journey through beautiful countryside
and rich culture that has inspired centuries of artists, No journey would be complete without sampling the
composers, chefs and writers. region’s culinary splendors: tasting our way through
Lyon – the gastronomic heart of France – and sipping
Together, we cruise along the Saône and Rhône rivers, wines while exploring the acclaimed vineyards where
through the heart of the sun-baked, lavender-scented they were made. This is your invitation to join a journey
countryside of southern France. We discover medieval filled with stunning scenery, superb cuisine and
hilltop towns, steeped in history from Roman times to convivial travelers.
the Middle Ages.
We go behind the scenes at famed palaces, châteaux
and vineyards as well as enchanting gardens and homes
with private visits just for NSCDA members and guests.
1-800-856-1045 | Dames@ConnoisseursTours.com | www.ConnoisseursTours.com page: 2
C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021 DAY 1: SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 DAY 2: SEPTEMBER 3, 2021 DEPART THE U.S. ARRIVE IN LYON Connoisseurs Tours offers a Concierge Airline Service to Arrive into Lyon’s Saint-Exupéry Airport, where you’ll help with your reservations. Your dedicated reservation be met at the airport and transferred to the newly team will manage your airline reservations from the refinished InterContinental Hôtel Dieu Lyon. Tonight, time you begin selecting flights until the day you return we meet in the hotel’s lovely bar for welcome cocktails and will spend extra effort to find just the right airline and introductions. Dinner is at your leisure to explore schedule to suit your needs. This will alleviate any of one of Lyon’s many Michelin-starred restaurants. the unexpected headaches that can arise in today’s travel environment with schedule changes and flight cancellations. 1-800-856-1045 | Dames@ConnoisseursTours.com | www.ConnoisseursTours.com page: 3
C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
DAY 3: SEPTEMBER 4, 2021
BEHIND THE SCENES LYON EXPLORATION & EN CHAU
We begin our day with a private tour of old Lyon, period. Then cross the Saône via the St. Georges
walking through the city’s Gaulish and Roman history footbridge and head to Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) where
as well as the many stunning Renaissance-era traboules you can stroll through the cobbles of the old town while
(secret, covered passageways) bisecting the city center. learning about the city’s history and secrets. Winding
Through this orientation, we understand how Lyon is their way through buildings, courtyards, and up and
considered the cultural heart of France. down staircases, Lyon’s secret traboules are an ideal
way of visiting the city.
We’ll visit Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square
in Europe. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunch at leisure in one of the numerous “bouchons” in
between the Saône and the Rhône in the 2nd district Vieux Lyon.
of Lyon, Place Bellecour is a gigantic square in the heart
of the city. François-Frédéric Lemot’s statue of the Sun After our morning tour, you are free for lunch before
King, Louis XIV, on horseback, has stood in the center of we head this afternoon to Cluny for an exclusive,
the square since 1825. Dames-only private visit to Petite Maison En Chau, an
enchanting, 19th-century home owned and refurbished
We’ll also visit the Textile and Decorative Arts Museum. by a fellow Dame who will open her home only to our
With an expert guide, our visit will take us through group. We will enjoy a private tour with wine and hors
2,000 years of history of textiles (the first collection d’oeuvres before returning to Lyon.
in the world). Explore one of the richest collections
of decorative objects and fine collections of 15th- (B, Wine & HDVS)
and 16th-century Italian Majolica, Middle Ages and
Renaissance tapestries and discover the deep history of
the Lyon silk trade, which goes back to the Renaissance
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
DAY 4: SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 DAY 5: SEPTEMBER 6, 2021
EMBARK ON THE S.S. CATHERINE MÂCON (BEAUNE)
The morning is at your leisure to shop and explore The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy,
before we embark on the luxurious S.S. Catherine, our where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the
home for the next week as we continue our journey vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune,
deeper into Burgundy. is renowned for its history, beauty and highly prized
(B,L,D) wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital – the
Hospices de Beaune. Located in the southernmost
part of Burgundy, Mâcon, a Saône River port, is your
OPTIONAL: If you please, before embarkation, join us
in an optional visit to discover why Lyon is said to be at gateway to Beaune.
the heart of French Gastronomy. Known and renowned
around the world as a pinnacle, a zenith, in gastronomy A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will
and hospitality, French cooking takes its cues from the be prepared for you this evening.
pioneers of the culinary arts, a number of whom came (B,L,D)
from the areas surrounding Lyon. Dive deep into the food
world as we visit Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, Lyon’s
covered food market that concentrates some of the city’s
best known local delicacies in one place and is a must see.
Paul Bocouse was one of Lyon’s most revered and well-
known chefs and was instrumental in assuring Lyon’s title
as France’s capital of gastronomy. We’ll enjoy Les Halles in a
guided visit and have lunch at leisure.
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
DAY 6: SEPTEMBER 7, 2021 DAY 7: SEPTEMBER 8, 2021
A RETURN TO LYON’S SECRET PASSAGEWAYS TOURNON
There’s still much to explore in Lyon: from the Today is specially designed for Dames
work of culinary visionaries to silk weavers’ secret
This morning we head to Tournon-sur-Rhône in the
passageways. After your choice of excursions,
heart of Ardèche Hermitage. Hermitage has the soul
embrace the locals’ favorite mode of transportation
and the discreet charm of a small provincial town and
with a patisserie-fueled bike ride – a great way to see
is a sweet summary of the Rhône Valley. Enjoy a visit
the sights. Two rivers: one tranquil, one torrential.
to a local domaine founded in 1808 on Hermitage Hill.
Two hills: one for labor, where the sound of the silk
Visit the wine cellar and enjoy a private tasting during
weavers’ looms used to echo; the other for prayers,
which the estate’s sommeliers will help you discover
crowned by a spectacular basilica.
the values and spirit of the winery.
(B,L,D)
Indulge in an accords mets et vins lunch on the
domaine grounds during which you will enjoy local
specialties and the art of pairing them with the right
wine. The owner of the estate will join you to share his
family history and passion: a man close to the earth,
in a quest to create the best expression of the local
environment through his wines. The afternoon will be
dedicated to a visit of the estate and a stroll through
the vineyard.
(B,L,D)
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
DAY 8: SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 DAY 9: SEPTEMBER 10, 2021
VIVIERS AVIGNON & VILLENEUVE
An enchanting village where time seems to have The walled city of Avignon is one of the most
stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied fascinating towns in southern France, with a host
past that goes back more than 1,600 years – and a of historic gems to explore – including the fortress
splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome
Viviers was divided along religious lines – the clergy and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of
lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower the Popes and much more today and also have a chance
part. Your exploration of the town will take you through to kayak under a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.
both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your way
down to the riverbank. Especially designed for Dames is a private tour in the
(B,L,D) afternoon to the Saint-André Gardens and Abbey in
Villeneuve. Here we’ll enjoy a special visit and refreshments.
Labelled a “Remarkable Garden of France” and listed as
a Historic Monument, the Saint-André Abbey gardens
and the abbot’s palace are located within the walls of
the fort of the same name. Your guided visit will take you
through a mosaic of flowerbeds, parterres, terraces and
gardens all designed in Tuscan Renaissance, Mediterranean
and Provençal styles. Like balconies, the gardens offer
magnificent views over Avignon, the Alpilles, the Mont
Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail.
(B,L,D)
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
DAY 10: SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 DAY 11: SEPTEMBER 12, 2021
ARLES AND THE AMBASSADOR’S GARDEN DISEMBARKATION & RETURN HOME
Explore one of two sun-drenched Provençal towns Today we disembark to return home or continue our
today, each with an allure all its own. Known for its
journey on a post-cruise extension to Aix en Provence
remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Vincent
van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there; & Cote D’Azur.
Tarascon boasts an ancient castle, as well as a local (B)
legend about a ferocious dragon. Arles has existed
since the sixth century B.C., when the ancient Greeks *Optional Extension available; details are featured on the
founded it and named it The Line. following pages.
It was here that the Romans built their first bridge
across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route
between Italy and Spain and facilitating the expansion
of their empire. Long renowned as one of the region’s
most attractive cities, it lured van Gogh, who painted
hundreds of works here (including Sunflowers and The
Yellow House) in just 15 months.
After lunch, we have designed a special excursion for
Dames. We venture to the western end of Les Alpilles to
the superb garden of a former American ambassador. The
designers, Rosemary Verey and Peter Coates, laid out the
original garden and Tim Rees has added a woodland stream
and Roman garden.
(B,L,D)
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
CÔTE D’AZUR EXTENSION | SEPTEMBER 12 TO 14, 2021
Finding history, charm and tranquility in Aix-en-Provence, St Jean Cap Ferrat and Eze
EXTENSION DAY 1: SEPTEMBER 12, 2021
AVIGNON & AIX-EN-PROVENCE
This morning, after breakfast, disembark in Avignon. We then make our way to the hillside town of Cagnes.
We’ll meet our guide at the pier and board a private Perched on the heights of Cagnes, in a Provencal
coach to set off for Provence and the timelessly iconic landscape, is the Château Le Cagnard Hotel, our home
southern coast of France. Its cobalt Luberon Mountains, for the next two evenings. Under the benevolent
seductive coastline, rippling lavender fields and honey- leadership of the Medieval Château Grimaldi, it is
stone hilltop villages have inspired everyone from nestled in intertwined steep alleys and offers a haven
Nostradamus to van Gogh. The Romans settled in of tranquility just a few steps away from the beaches
Provence in the second century B.C.; even the Vatican of the Côte d’Azur. In this village, nestled between the
transplanted here from dazzling Rome in the 14th Mercantour Massif and the Mediterranean Sea, nature
century. has lavished its wonders.
Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of Aix- Mountain landscapes plunge into the azure sea and
en-Provence, the “City of a Thousand Fountains.” Stroll clusters of purple Clematis cling to old ochre stones:
through the market and take in the energy of the city. their colors create a breathtaking palette that has
Taste some local specialties along the way. We’ll enjoy brought generations of painters here for inspiration
a lunch at leisure in one of the numerous restaurants or while the southern vegetation infuses the local cuisine
brasseries of Aix. with mouthwatering aromas.
This afternoon, take the time to enjoy the historical Overnight at the Château Le Cagnard.
center at your own pace and explore the wonderful (B)
boutiques, small winding streets and wonderful vitality
in the city.
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C’est La Belle Vie: Rhône River Journey | September 2 to 12, 2021
CÔTE D’AZUR EXTENSION (continued) | SEPTEMBER 12 TO 14, 2021
Finding history, charm and tranquility in Aix-en-Provence, St Jean Cap Ferrat and Eze
EXTENSION DAY 2: SEPTEMBER 13, 2021
ST. JEAN CAP FERRAT & ÈZE
After breakfast, we make our way to St. Jean Cap For lunch, we’ll head to the exclusive La Chèvre d’Or for
Ferrat for a guided visit to the Villa Ephrussi de a gastronomical experience at the terrace restaurant Les
Rothschild, located between Nice and Monaco at the Remparts, surrounded by arcades of jasmine, ivy and
highest point in Cap Ferrat. The villa was designed by bougainvillea that will immerse you in the serenity of its
the French architect Aaron Messiah and constructed extraordinary view.
between 1905 and 1912 by Baroness Béatrice de
Rothschild (1864–1934). The Baroness filled the Explore the lovely village of Èze at your own pace for
mansion with antique furniture, Old Master paintings, the rest of the afternoon. Board your private coach and
sculptures, objets d’art and an extensive collection of head back to Haute Cagnes and our relaxing hotel.
rare porcelain. Like those we saw a few days ago at the
Saint-André Abbey, the gardens are classified by the Evening and dinner at leisure. Overnight at Château Le
French Ministry of Culture as one of the Remarkable Cagnard Hotel.
Gardens of France. Together with the villa, they are (B,L)
a perfect expression of the Belle Epoque, and we’re
invited to visit and thoroughly explore them.
After this, board your private coach for a short and
EXTENSION DAY 3: SEPTEMBER 14, 2021
scenic ride to Èze, one of the most beautiful perched
villages in the French Riviera. On craggy cliffs high TRANSFER TO NICE FOR YOUR RETURN HOME
above the sea, the medieval village of Èze is a delightful
step back in time – and blissfully calm for the Riviera. After breakfast, we assist with transfers to the
The well-preserved stone buildings, winding alleyways, Aeroport Nice Côte d’Azur for your return home.
14th-century chapels and dramatic Mediterranean (B)
backdrop make this tiny village seem like a movie set.
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THE S.S. CATHERINE | DECK PLAN
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THE S.S. CATHERINE | STATEROOMS
CLASSIC | SAINT REMY DECK DELUXE FRENCH BALCONY | CAMARGUE DECK
Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (162 sq ft) Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (194
with Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in sq ft) with a French balcony with Handcrafted
closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat- Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair
screen TV with infotainment center and satellite, and dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV
bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath with infotainment center and satellite, and bottled
and body products, plush towels, heated mirrors, water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and
cozy bathrobes and slippers. body products, plush towels, heated mirrors, cozy
bathrobes and slippers.
FRENCH BALCONY | AVIGNON DECK SUITE | CAMARGUE DECK
Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (194 sq ft) Lavishly appointed riverview suite (305 sq ft) with a
with Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in French balcony with Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of
closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat- England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual
screen TV with infotainment center and satellite, and thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment
bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath center and satellite, and bottled water. Marble
and body products, plush towels, heated mirrors, bathroom with Hermès bath and body products,
cozy bathrobes and slippers. plush towels, towel warmer, waffle bathrobes and
slippers. Additional special amenities and services.
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WHAT’S INCLUDED
• 2 nights at the luxurious InterContinental Hôtel • All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and
Dieu Lyon freshest ingredients
• 7 nights aboard the luxurious S.S. Catherine - an • 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 dinners
all-inclusive experience
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and
suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of • Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
England, high thread count 100% Egyptian
cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu • Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine
of pillow options wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft
drinks and mineral water
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access
• Specially-designed, Dames-only excursions
• 10 days of excursions, including “Choice Is
Yours” options, all fully hosted by English- • Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise
speaking local experts Manager
• Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program • All transfers on arrival and departure days
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio- • All gratuities, both onboard and onshore
headset system on all excursions
• Captivating onboard local entertainment
• Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks
• Cultural enrichment, including a Signature
• Visits to iconic private and public homes and Lecture
gardens, exclusively for Members
• Connoisseurs Tour Manager to ensure your
journey is seamless
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS
TERMS & CONDITIONS RESERVATIONS:
Please read all of the terms and conditions To inquire about this journey or to make a
on the Connoisseurs Tours website (www. reservation, please call our Guest Services team:
ConnoisseursTours.com). Any payment made 1-800-856-1045
to Connoisseurs Tours towards a tour booking/ or visit us online at:
reservation shall constitute a confirmation by the www.ConnoisseursTours.com
traveler on behalf of themselves and all other persons
named on their booking, that you acknowledge
that you have read, understand and agree to be
bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you make
a booking and payment on behalf of other travelers,
you guarantee that you have the authority to accept
these terms and conditions on behalf of the other
travelers in your party.
As we enter the New Era of Travel we know our guests Any Reason Refund, Insure As You Go Travel Protection
are as optimistic and eager to travel as always. We also allows you to rest assured that your travel investment is
realize that being both flexible and realistic are the keys protected.
to any great journey.
We know exploring destinations safely with people you
Safeguarding Your Travel Investment: As we move into know is of paramount importance. Registration is by
the New Era of Travel, Connoisseurs Tours’ Cancel for invitation only to members and their guests.
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