Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise
About This Cruise
From the slopes of the scenic winelands to the hills of Provence, and the beauty of the French landscape to the medieval splendour of Avignon, enjoy a fascinating cruise to one of the most picturesque corners of France.
Our journey through France explores the beautiful Saône and Rhône French rivers, the preferred route of traders and invaders alike since the dawn of recorded history. Everywhere there are reminders of the Romans and the greatest empire of the ancient world. There are guided tours to Lyon and Beaune, with a visit to the Hôtel-Dieu. We’ll explore Vienne and taste the wines of the Rhône Valley at Tain l’Hermitage. You will be staggered by the engineering genius of the amphitheatre at Arles and the huge aqueduct at the Pont du Gard. Avignon was the seat of the Papacy during medieval times, heralding a century of greatness crowned by the absorbing Papal Palace and its renaissance art collection.
Type
River, Luxury
Ship
MS Thomas Hardy
Departure Date
5 September 2026
Cruise Line
Riviera Travel
Duration
7 Nights
Select Your Cabin Type
Call Us at 01 6874149Overview
From the slopes of the scenic winelands to the hills of Provence, and the beauty of the French landscape to the medieval splendour of Avignon, enjoy a fascinating cruise to one of the most picturesque corners of France.
Our journey through France explores the beautiful Saône and Rhône French rivers, the preferred route of traders and invaders alike since the dawn of recorded history. Everywhere there are reminders of the Romans and the greatest empire of the ancient world. There are guided tours to Lyon and Beaune, with a visit to the Hôtel-Dieu. We’ll explore Vienne and taste the wines of the Rhône Valley at Tain l’Hermitage. You will be staggered by the engineering genius of the amphitheatre at Arles and the huge aqueduct at the Pont du Gard. Avignon was the seat of the Papacy during medieval times, heralding a century of greatness crowned by the absorbing Papal Palace and its renaissance art collection.
Deluxe Balcony Suites
If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
- Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Superior Suites
Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Suites
Standard cabins on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy (supplements may apply) and are subject to availability.
Standard Suites are 17 square metres (183 square feet) and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Main Restaurant
The ship’s main restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables for just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.
The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel.
Riverview Kitchen
At the Riverview Kitchen with its large panoramic windows, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents in the open kitchen a selection of locally inspired dishes which you can enjoy with your fellow guests; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.
Panorama Bar
The superb panoramic observation lounge and bar; a lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view. After a superb dinner in the restaurant perhaps it’s time for a digestif accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship’s pianist.
Boutique
The Boutique can be located on the Diamond Deck.
Fitness Centre & Spa
On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. Simply put, these world-class ships, elegant and refined in the truest sense, take the idea of river cruising to another level – it really doesn’t get better than this!
Sun Deck
The magnificent and unique Sun Deck illustrates our considered depth of design with a second staircase amidship affording convenient Sun Deck access. Head on up to this truly spectacular deck and what could be better than watching life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green.
Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.