This cruise takes you through the Camargue, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful nature reserves. The region of salt marshes and sand dunes is a haven for wildlife, including wild horses, the famous Camargue bulls and freshwater turtles. In summer, some 30,000 pink flamingos can be counted, while 150,000 birds migrate annually.

Sunday - : Avignon
Your cruise begins with a champagne reception to welcome you aboard in Avignon and give you a chance to meet your crew. Enjoy a first taste of River Rhône life with an early evening cruise past the famous medieval bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d'Avignon. Arrive at our rural mooring of Aramon. Later, experience the superb skills of our chef. The cuisine is a real highlight of your trip, particularly when accompanied by wines from France's finest vineyards.

Monday -  Cruise to Gallician
After enjoying a breakfast of local specialties, disembark for a short drive back to Avignon. Embark on a walking tour of the stunning walled city, home of the Popes from 1309-77. A guided tour of the majestic Palais des Papes is followed by free time to shop or to simply order a drink in a pavement café and watch the world go by. Return to the barge for lunch and an afternoon cruise. Marvel as you pass the 15th-century castles of Tarascon and Beaucaire that descend right down to the water's edge, before entering the Petit Rhône and continuing south to your mooring for the night.

Tuesday - Cruise to Aigues-Mortes
This morning, alight and accompany your guide on a tour of Arles, famous for its Roman ruins and the place where Van Gogh created many of his celebrated paintings. Return to the barge for lunch and a leisurely cruise down the Canal du Rhône à Sète. Arrive at the fortified town of Aigues-Mortes, whose imposing medieval walls conceal a lively hub of shops, markets and cafes. Dinner is served back on board.

Wednesday -  Cruise to Carnon
Rise relaxed to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a morning of scenic cruising. Today, you get a true feel for the Camargue, with its wetlands and sand dunes populated by rare and vibrant wildlife. The spellbinding landscape provides stunning photo opportunities, while the Spanish influence on Southern France is palpable. Dinner tonight is enjoyed on the barge.

Thursday - Cruise to Frontignan
This morning, your guide will take you to the bustling market town of Sète, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Watch fishermen spread their nets out to dry on the quays and perhaps enjoy lunch at one of the many alfresco restaurants serving fresh seafood. Return to the barge and journey onwards to Frontignan, known for producing the dessert wine, Muscat de Frontignan. Relax with an aperitif on deck before savouring a sumptuous dinner.

Friday -  Cruise to Marseillan
Today, weather permitting, the barge glides through the Étang de Thau lagoon, a vast saltwater lake renowned for its oysters and mussels, delicacies that you will be able to sample in the afternoon. Leaving the lagoon, continue to the beautiful seaside port of Marseillan. Its maze of narrow streets and rustic two- and three-storey houses are typical of the local architecture. Marseillan is principally known for its production of Noilly Prat; a visit to the museum may give you a taste for the fine Mediterranean vermouth. Back on board, your chef is busy preparing your farewell gala dinner.

Saturday - Marseillan
Please check out this morning by 09:00. After breakfast, your crew bids you farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you back on board soon.

Note: In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary to alter the route without prior notice. The cruise is in the reverse direction on alternate weeks.