Trip Reports
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from France
Ports
7 Ports
18-19 May
Setting sail from Arles
The charming little town of Arles sits at the head of the Rhône delta, on the northern fringe of the sprawling marshlands of the Camargue. It's a town with a long history, as evidenced by an impressive array of Roman ruins, and though the gladiators may be long gone the 20,000 seater amphitheatre still plays host to the bloody and controversial spectacle of the corrida (bullfight). Whether or not you approve of all the local traditions, Arles is a great place to sample the essence of Provençal culture, and we particularly recommend the vibrant Saturday market.
Our tip
Try and get a reservation at L’Atelier where Michelin starred chef Jean-Luc Rabanel offers you a meal that is a work of art in itself. You could even combine it with a half-day cooking class.
20 May
France: Avignon
The former papal stronghold of Avignon cuts a dramatic figure, perched above the Rhône and ensconced behind towering walls. The Palais des Papes was home to a succession of 14th century pontiffs, and still looms large over Avignon’s atmospheric old town.
21 May
France: Viviers
The little town of Viviers, on the right bank of the Rhône, is a delightful place to explore on foot, with its narrow, cobbled medieval streets and elegant cathedral. A lot of history is packed into a small space, including Roman remains and the Renaissance era Maison des Chevaliers.
22 May
France: Tain I'Hermitage
The twin villages of Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain l’Hermitage sit on opposite banks of the Rhône, around 50 miles south of Lyon. Visit Tournon’s hilltop castle and charming old town, then sample some of Tain l’Hermitage’s excellent wines and the famous Valrhona chocolate.
23 May
France: Lyon
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France’s most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, and the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings.
24 May
France: Mâcon
The little town of Mâcon lies on the west bank of the Saône, at the southern edge of Burgundy, and it’s a great base for sampling the region’s famous wines. A popular excursion is a trip to nearby Beaune, home to the magnificent medieval Hospices de Beaune and its prestigious wine estate.
25 May
Arriving in Lyon
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France's most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, from lavish Michelin-starred affairs to family-run joints tucked away down a back alley. What's more, the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings, best appreciated from the top of the soaring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Don't miss
Eating out in Lyon is the best – starve yourself for days in advance in order to be able to make the most of this foodiest of cities.
Your home from home
Uniquely designed and decorated, with an exceptional attention to detail, S.S. Catherine has been crafted to reflect the specific area in which she operates.
What we love
Introduced in 2014, the S.S. Catherine was the second of Uniworld's 'Super Ships' to join the fleet. Individually decorated suites with cleverly designed French balconies open the rooms to the outside, and the outrageously over the top décor of the public spaces combines brilliantly with modern touches like the indoor heated pool at the back of the ship.
| Capacity | 159 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 57 European Staff |
| Style | Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Our favourite hotel in Arles
We like the pretty Hotel Particulier, a lovely 19th century mansion.
Art in Arles
Arles is a great base for learning more about Van Gogh in Provence. Take a guided tour to learn more and see some great masterpieces.
Where to stay in Lyon
We love the Cour des Loges in the heart of old Lyon.
What to do around Lyon
This is a great base to set forth for wine tasting in Beaujolais.
