Mâcon and Beaujolais wine tour

Mâcon's historic centre holds the Cathedral of St Vincent, and you can enjoy a literary stroll along Mâcon’s Esplanade, which is engraved with lines from a poem written by the French poet, Lamartine. Mâcon is surrounded by vineyards and this excursion will take you into the heart of Beaujolais country, which is dotted with picturesque castles along the banks of the River Rhône. You'll learn all about one of the world's most popular wines and there will, of course, be a wine tasting!

Half day

Cluny Abbey

Cluny Abbey controlled several hundred monastic foundations throughout Europe. The third church constructed here was virtually destroyed during the French Revolution. Today just a few ruins of the original abbey survive, but the present complex is home to a Museum of Art and Archaeology, set within a medieval town rich in Romanesque and Gothic buildings.

Half day

Beaune and Burgundy

Beaune is one of the most important wine centres in France. This beautiful walled city contains historic mansions, medieval half-timbered houses and pretty gardens. It is surrounded by prestigious vineyards and during your excursion, you'll learn about the region's wine heritage and enjoy a tasting at a famous old tavern. You'll also visit the Hôtel-Dieu, a former almshouse dating back to the 15th century.

Half day

Brancion and Cormatin

Journey back through time with a visit to the enchanting village of Brancion, which dates back to the fifth century and commands stunning views of the Provencal countryside. An ancient arch leads to medieval cottages, a charming castle and a hilltop church containing notable frescoes. Continue to the magnificent Chateau of Cormatin through picturesque villages and meadows.

Half day

Lyon guided tour

During this guided tour of the Roman 'City of Light', you'll view the ruins of the ancient theatre and odeon before reaching the Basilica of Notre-Dame. Then continue by coach downhill to the two main squares – Place Bellecour being one of the largest town squares in France. Continue to Vieux-Lyon and enjoy a walking tour of its cobbled streets and hidden passages known as traboules.

Half day

Avignon city walk

This morning's guided walk starts with a stroll to the Place de l’Horloge in the city centre, a typical Provencal town square with open-air cafes and plane trees. From here you continue on foot to the magnificent Palace of the Popes, built on a rock above the city.

Please note that visiting the palace involves climbing approximately 150 stone steps.

Half day

The Pont du Gard and Uzès

This afternoon's optional excursion will visit the Pont du Gard, an outstanding Roman aqueduct bridging the valley of the River Gardon in three impressive tiers of arches. Continue to the charming city of Uzès, famed for its truffles, medieval churches and a castle known as Le Duché.

Half day

The Camargue Nature Reserve

Around 5,000 pink flamingoes make their home in the lagoons of Carmargue Nature Reserve, plus the park is the official residence of white Carmargue horses and jet black Carmargue bulls. After the park, visit the historic capital of the Carmargue, Saintes-Marie-de-la-Mer, where the delta of the Rhone meets the Mediterranean.

Half day

Arles walking tour

Discover the city of Arles, with its Mediterranean atmosphere, live traditions and magnificent Roman architectural monuments. Visit Les Arènes amphitheatre and the Church of St Trophime.

Two-and-a-half hours

The Ardèche Valley

Deep inside a landscape of rugged mountains and thick forests lies the River Ardèche, a tributary of the Rhône that has been chewing its way relentlessly through limestone rocks for millions of years. The resulting cliffs and canyons provide some of the most dramatic scenery in France, culminating in a 30-kilometre section known as the Ardèche Gorges. Here the rushing waters descend through towering limestone walls up to 300 metres high, leading to the region's most famous landmark – a natural, 60-metre stone arch spanning the river, known as the Pont d'Arc.

Half day