Iconic France

Day programme:

Perhaps wake up to a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises along the Saône River. You will be sailing towards Chalon-sur-Saône. An idyllic base for exploring the Burgundy wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône is a charming town with half-timbered houses and a magnificent Gothic cathedral just south of Beaune, often referred to as the epicentre for oenophiles.Freechoice: Explore your way with a choice from these Scenic Freechoice experiences:Guided tour of Beaune and Les Hospices: From Chalon-sur-Saône, you will travel through spectacular countryside past stone houses and vineyards to the beautiful town of Beaune, where you will join a guided tour. The highlight will be the spectacular Les Hospices de Beaune, a Gothic-style hospital founded in the Middle Ages, with decorative flamboyant roof tiles, surrounded by vineyards producing prestigious wine and now housing a museum. You will have free time to explore the town at your own leisure before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.Local Estate Visit; Visit a local estate situated in the heart of Burgundy. This Burgundy wine domain is a place full of history where you will be able to taste the wines from Côte de Beaune surrounded by unique architecture.Photography Museum; Learn the history of photography in the town where it was first invented. The museum aims to explain photography since its invention through to the digital image, with a collection including almost three million photographs and objects, which you will observe during a guided tour. (Please note: This is closed on a Tuesday).

Day programme:

Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart Chalon-sur-Saône early this morning and sail to Tournus, a riverside town founded by the Romans, its dominating abbey a splendid example of Romanesque architecture. Freechoice: Make your selection for today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:Excursion to Chateau de Cormatin: Transfer by coach from Tournus to the historic Château de Cormatin, built in 1606. The castle boasts a fascinating history and has been lovingly restored back to its original glory. Admire the castle’s gilded rooms, moat, water features and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens on a guided tour.Truffle Tasting: Meet a local truffle farmer and his dog and learn the tricks and techniques of truffle farming before enjoying a tasting of his delicious produce.Cooking Class at the restaurant of Georges Blanc: Take a short coach transfer to the villages of Vonnas where you will have a short orientation tour before visiting the restaurant of the three star Michelin Chef, Georges Blanc for a cooking demonstration. After the cooking demonstration, take the opportunity to visit the village museum, the Museum has been loving created by Georges Blanc in dedication to his family who have lived and worked in this region of France for 150 years, with his great-grandparents first settling in Vonnas in 1872 where they opened a lemonade cafe.Cooperage demonstration: Just steps from your Space-Ship, witness the long-standing tradition of barrel making. Admire a skilled artisan as they show you the secret of this art and learn how this craft still plays a crucial role in wine and spirit making.Tonight, your on board Chef has specially sourced local Truffles and will cook an extraordinary welcome dinner showcasing the regions Truffles.

Day programme:

This morning your Space-Ship will arrive in  Tournon, a hillside village with terraced vineyards, an enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets.Freechoice: Spend this morning at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:Walking tour of Tournon: Explore the riverside town of Tournon by foot. Discover its fascinating history and make a stop at the impressive castle built between the 10th and 16th centuries that dominates the town. Afterwards you have free time to wander the narrow streets of Tournon or cross France's oldest suspension bridge to the neighbouring town of Tain l'Hermitage, home to prestigious chocolatiers Valrhona Chocolate, which has been operating here since 1922.Hiking through the vineyards in Tournon: Get close to nature as you hike through the sloping vineyards that overlook the Rhône River above Tournon. Learn about the local wine production and taste some of the delicious drops of the region.Biking along the Rhône: Enjoy a guided cycling tour along the banks of the Rhône through picturesque villages to the charming recreational village of Glun.This afternoon enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace of Tournon Castle. This ancient castle holds prime position overlooking the Rhône river and the surrounding terraced vineyards.

Day programme:

This morning you’ll have time to relax on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises towards the city of Avignon in Provence. Known as the City of the Popes, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture but has a youthful energy to it with a buzzing arts scene. The former 14th century papal capital is circled by city walls, home to the magnificent World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea. Freechoice: Choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice options this afternoon:Guided walking tour: From the ship, you will be guided on a walk in Avignon, to the historic city walls and the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Avignon is filled with cobblestoned streets and the palace comprises numerous steps, so a moderate degree of fitness is required for this tour.Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, on a guided tour. Dating to the middle of the first century, this engineering masterpiece was designed to carry water to the city of Nîmes.Kayaking at Pont du Gard: Paddle along the Gardon River towards the impressive and well-preserved Pont du Gard, the ancient aqueduct which dates to the Roman empire. EnrichThis evening’s Scenic Enrich:Private classical concert and dinner at the Pope’s Palace: You will be treated to a truly unforgettable classical concert at the prestigious Pope’s Palace of Avignon. When the doors are closed to the general public, you’ll have one of the most visited sites in France to yourself. Upon arrival, you will be ushered into the grandiose palace for an exclusive gala dinner and a concert by a trio of musicians. Be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces, which gain a new fascinating dimension inside the palace’s walls.

Day programme:

Avignon is known as the gateway to Provence, a region blanketed in vineyards and lavender fields, rolling hills and historic villages. Today you will have the chance to explore more of this captivating part of southern France. Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice Excursion to Luberon villages and Senanque Abbey: Visit the village of Gordes, considered “one of the most beautiful villages in France”. Teetering high above the hills of Luberon, Gordes’ stone buildings spiral around the rock on which it is perched, its church and castle at the apex. After Gordes, you will visit nearby Senanque Abbey, a picturesque Cistercian Abbey.Wine tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape: The fertile banks of the Rhône are peppered with Côte du Rhône vineyards, including at the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where centuries of wine production make for a very fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region’s most celebrated wines.Lavender Museum with visit to the village of Roussillon: Roussillon and its Ochre Trail are among the main attractions on Luberon's ochre circuit, a landscape of ochre cliffs. Take a guided tour through this charming village before a visit to a local lavender producer where you will learn how lavender is grown, harvested and utilised in this region.Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Gourmands can join Scenic’s on board chef on a visit to a local food market where you will have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your Scenic Space-Ship, head to the Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought. (Please note: Avignon Markert is closed on a Monday)

Day programme:

Leaving Avignon early this morning, your Scenic Space-Ship will depart for Arles. Founded by Julius Caesar, this city is rich in Roman history and is thought to have the largest number of Roman ruins after The Eternal City itself. It was also home to Vincent Van Gogh in 1888, who drew inspiration from the landscape for a multitude of his paintings and drawings. Freechoice: Decide how you will spend your day with todays’ selection of Scenic Freechoice Guided tour of Arles: Take a short walk from your Scenic Space-Ship to the heart of Arles. The city is home to some impressive Roman ruins, including Las Arenas, an amphitheatre that seats 20,000 and is still in use today. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of Arles' light – it will be easy to see why the city has inspired so many artists.Visit Les Baux with Carrières de Lumières: Journey to the stunning medieval village of Les Baux, perched on a rocky outcrop and often regarded as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Visit a former quarry in the Les Baux region that is now the site of Carrières de Lumières, an enormous 7,000 square-metre site that hosts a visual and musical production highlighting the works of notable world-famous artists.Ancestry of the Kitchen: Visit a local olive farm where you will learn the techniques of olive oil production. Here you will meet with a local who’s family have worked the land on this Olive Farm for centuries and who will share insight into everyday life in the region, as well as divulge traditional Provencal recipes.Cosmetic Workshop; The Provence region is renowned for its spectacular scenery and at certain times throughout the year (typically late June to Mid-August) is blanketed in purple lavender. Today visit a local farm that produces a variety of lavender-based products and join your host for a cosmetics workshop.This afternoon is free to explore Arles at your own pace or return to your Scenic Space-Ship and indulge in an on board painting class. Vincent Van Gogh once said that 'The whole future of art is to be found in the South of France' this is just one example of the high regard this region is held by artists the world over. Learn about the artistic heritage of this region while painting a masterpiece of your own.

Day programme:

This morning you will arrive in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum for its rich medieval heritage and architecture.  Freechoice: Make your selection for this morning’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:Walking tour of Viviers: Enjoy a walking tour with your local guide to explore Viviers, a town with an important heritage and rich past. Admire the many monuments and architectural treasures such as the Cathedral of St. Vincent, which was first built in the 11th century and is resplendent in 18th-century gothic style and a Renaissance facade. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.French Resistance Walking Tour: During a walking tour of Viviers, learn about the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic town.Freechoice: This afternoon, choose to explore your way with these Scenic Freechoice Ardèche Nature Park with Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum: Explore the Ardèche Nature Park, which stretches from the Rhône Valley to the Ardeche Mountains and contains medieval fortress ruins. You will also be immersed in the Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, the largest decorated Palaeolithic cave replica in the world. The original site was deemed too fragile for public access, so this replica cave was built only a few kilometres from the actual cave.Explore the caves in the Ardeche Nature Park: Drive through the rugged natural beauty of Ardeche Nature Park, from the Ardeche Gorge to the equally impressive Madeleine Caves, where you can admire the intricate rock formations, stalagmites and stalactites, and underground lakes.Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Join your local guide in an exploration of this beautiful town; see the mighty castle that dominates from a hilltop, as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour, before enjoying some time at leisure.

Day programme:

Wake up this morning in Lyon. This fascinating city rivals Paris in the culinary stakes, was home to prestigious chef Paul Bocuse and the Lumiere brothers who invented the cinematograph, has a long history of silk production, and comprises ancient Roman ruins and fascinating subterranean passageways that date to the 4th century.  Freechoice: Make your selection for today’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Lyon: Traverse Lyon’s hidden traboules, secret passageways that were built for easy transport of silk and other textiles. There are hundreds in the region and some date to the 4th century; they were used in World War II by the Resistance. You will also visit Notre Dame de Fourviere, a majestic basilica built in 1872 that also offers a fabulous vantage point for views across Lyon.Silk painting workshop: Lyon has a rich heritage in silk production that dates back almost five centuries when Louis XI chose the city as a potential base for the silk weaving industry. In the 19th century, silk was one of the city’s largest industries. During a workshop, learn about the history and process of its production.Excursion to Perouges: Visit the medieval walled village of Perouges, perched atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. The village has been well-preserved since the 14th century and is one of the most picturesque villages in the region. The afternoon is free to wander the cobbled streets of Lyon. Perhaps you’d like to spend time sampling local dishes in a bouchon ‘local eating houses’ or head to the Le Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an undercover gourmet market that will tickle your tastebuds.This evening, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure.

Day programme:

Board an included flight from Lyon to Bordeaux where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Diamond.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

This morning is spent on board relaxing as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. Head up to the Sun Deck to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the scenery along the Dordogne River rolling by. Or perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class.Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a World Heritage-listed medieval village with world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and historic monuments. You will enjoy a guided tour of the caves and catacombs beneath the city, including a Monolithic church built from limestone, whose 38-metre-long bell tower can be seen above ground.This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne.

Day programme:

Freechoice: Choose from one of these Scenic Freechoice activities:Walking tour of Libourne: Join your local guide for a walking tour of Libourne, the fortified harbour town with a rich history linked to the trade of wool, wine, salt and wood.Wine tasting at Château Siaurac: Located in the prestigious Pomerol wine-growing region, Château Siaurac is the largest and most iconic estate of the appellation.Biking and tasting at Château Siaurac: Cycle through this acclaimed wine-growing region to the impressive estate of Château Siaurac where you will learn about the wines produced at this property and enjoy a tasting.Paint and Pour: Join a local artist for a class on the Sun Deck of Scenic Diamond. Enjoy the magnificent river views, learn watercolour techniques and create your own masterpiece while sipping on delicious local wines.This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail onwards to Fort Medoc where you will dock overnight.

Day programme:

The name Médoc is synonymous with exceptional wines. Considered the world’s leading red wine producer, Médoc has been a winemaking region since the 18th century. Today you will have the chance to explore this remarkable wine region.Freechoice: Explore your way with a Scenic Freechoice excursion:Medoc wine tasting by coach: With more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations, Medoc is home to the epic ‘Route des Chateaux’, or ‘Route of Castles’. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a prestigious winery and enjoy a tasting of their wines. Medoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today and see many grand aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.EnrichTonight, enjoy an exclusive Scenic Enrich experience:Classical Concert at Chateau d’Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d'Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert.  Wander through the château and its gardens and soak in the ambiance of this magnificent property before a string quartet performs classical masterpieces for your enjoyment.

Day programme:

This morning will be spent cruising towards Cadillac.Founded in the 13th century, the charming, fortified city of Cadillac is centred around its magnificent château. Seventeenth century French explorer Anthony Laumet rose high in the French fur trade and in 1701 established the port of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which would become modern day Detroit where the American auto industry began. The Cadillac car is named in his honour.

Day programme:

Today you have the choice between many different experiences in the region surrounding Cadillac, from its bucolic countryside to its historic castles.Freechoice: This morning explore your way with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Sauternes by coach: Venture into the Sauternes region with a visit to either Château Rayne Vigneau or Château La Tour Blanche (the group will be split into two). Enjoy a delicious tasting of the chateau’s fine wines as you take in the stunning views of the vineyard and surrounds.Sauternes by bike: Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Classé estate of Chateau Mayne la Merci for a tasting. Learn the history of winemaking here and the process involved in production from time of harvest, grape to wine, length of maturing and, of course, the tasting pleasure. Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Roquetaillade Castle: The first fortress here was built by Charlemagne, or Charles the Great, in the 10th century. Today, the architectural jewel of Roquetaillade Castle, which comprises two castles and a chapel, dates from around the 13th century. You'll tour the castle with the family whose ancestors have resided here for more than 700 years.Biking to Château Benauge: Join a local guide as you cycle through the landscapes of the Gironde towards the impressive Château Benauge. The Château, which dates to the 11th century, maintains a strategic position at one of the highest points of the Gironde allowing for breathtaking views.Château Toulouse-Lautrec: This historic estate dates back over five centuries and is considered one of the oldest estates in the region. Château Toulouse-Lautrec was the family home of renowned French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. During a guided tour you will discover the historic rooms of the estate including the apartments of the famous painter, which still house some of his greatest works.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

This morning you will wake in the fascinating city of Bordeaux, which you can explore by foot, bike or through a cooking class. It has been an important trading port since the Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic location on the river flowing to a sea port.Freechoice: The choice is yours with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Bordeaux: Join your local guide on a tour of Bordeaux. Discover the highlights of the city by coach and on foot, such as the magnificent Gothic cathedral and Place de la Bourse, which is home to the famous ‘Water Mirror.’ Along the way, you’ll learn interesting facts about the city’s history, culture and way of life. Afterwards you'll have free time to explore the streets and go shopping at your leisure.Cycling tour of Bordeaux: Pedal through historic Bordeaux on a guided cycling tour. Cross bridges to see the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, relax in pretty public gardens and sample delicious treats such as canelé, a custard cake.Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Gourmands can join Scenic’s on board chef on a visit to a local food market where you will have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your Scenic Space-Ship, head to the Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought.Back on board, your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you, with a tasting of fresh Oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay. EnrichThis evening’s Scenic Enrich:Les Bassins de Lumiere: You will be given after-hours access to Les Bassins de Lumierès this evening, Bordeaux's former submarine base which has been transformed into an impressive art installation. On arrival, you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and be immersed in the exhibit with an exclusive show.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Today you’ll continue your exploration of Bordeaux and its surrounding regions.  Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Cité du Vin Museum: Take a local tram to the Cité du Vin Museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery. The Cité du Vin gives a different view of wine, across the world, across the ages, across all cultures and all civilisations.Tour Bordeaux by Motorbike & Sidecar: Join your host as you cruise through Bordeaux in the side car and/or on the back of a motorcycle. Starting in the Chartrons district you will see the Place de la Bourse, the Porte Cailhau and Saint Croix before crossing to the right bank where you will explore the Saint-Pierre district.Visit Arcachon: Join your local guide for a walking tour of the charming bayside town of Arcachon, finishing your visit at Baltard market, an undercover food hall where stallholders tout local delicacies. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore this elegant town yourself or wander to the seven-kilometre-long beach Plage d’Arcachon, which borders the main shopping and dining precinct. This afternoon you’ll enjoy time at leisure on board as you sail towards Bourg.

Day programme:

Your ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. Built as a defensive château, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the Dordogne. Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Bourg tour with carriages Museum: Situated inside the grounds of Bourg Castle, visit the carriages Museum with a local guide and discover the unique collection of horse-drawn carriages on display. In addition, visit the 16th-century passageway to the guard’s rooms and immense WWII oil tanks.Full day excursion to Cognac: The fortified city of Cognac is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest brandy. You’ll be taken on a walking tour of the town and have some free time to explore on your own, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will travel to the breathtaking estate of famed Rémy Martin, which you will tour before sampling some of the cognacs.

Day programme:

This morning you will sail towards Blaye. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect Bordeaux city, from enemy attacks.Freechoice: This morning, choose your Scenic Freechoice activity:Walking tour of Blaye: Stroll through the charming city of Blaye with a local guide, a World Heritage-listed monument that overlooks the Gironde Estuary.Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban. Guided cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road, which is named in honour of the WWI captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century.Visit Chateau de la Roche Courbon:In the 15th century, Château La Roche Courbon was built on a high cliff overlooking the River Bruant. Guests will discover this fortified castle transformed into a historic château with sprawling manicured gardens during a guided visit. This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Bordeaux for your final evening on board.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux airport or train station for your onward journey. Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region. Every effort is made to keep to the brochure itinerary however based on tides it will be amended or modified. Please refer to our terms and conditions.