Scenic
The Scenic Sapphire is an ultra-luxury "Space-Ship" designed for an intimate, All Inclusive experience on France’s iconic rivers. It features a high staff-to-guest ratio, dedicated butler service for every suite, and the exclusive Scenic Culinaire onboard cooking school. With expansive Balcony Suites and a variety of fine-dining venues, the ship offers a sophisticated sanctuary for travellers seeking the pinnacle of European river cruising.
Indulge in the ultimate epicurean escape beginning with two nights at the InterContinental Lyon Hotel Dieu, set in the heart of France’s culinary capital. Embark on a refined Rhône and Saône cruise aboard a luxury Scenic Space-Ship, featuring a Michelin-starred meal by Didier Goiffon and a private concert at Avignon’s Palais des Papes. After savouring world-class wines and interactive cooking at Scenic Culinaire, conclude your journey with a two-night stay at the magnificent InterContinental Marseille Hotel Dieu.
Day 1 - 2
Your journey begins with a grand arrival in the culinary heart of France, checking into the historic InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu for two nights. Housed in a majestic 18th-century landmark on the banks of the Rhône, this hotel offers palatial luxury, refined design, and world-class hospitality. Spend your days exploring the cobblestone "traboules" of Vieux Lyon and the vibrant food stalls of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, enjoying the sophisticated atmosphere of this epicurean retreat before your cruise.
Day 3
After immersing yourself in the gastronomic charm of Lyon for two nights, transition seamlessly on day three to luxurious Scenic Sapphire to begin your refined Tastes of the Rhône voyage. From the comfort of your All Inclusive suite, prepare to glide through the heart of France’s legendary wine regions, where historic cathedrals and sun-drenched vineyards await.
Day 4
Greet the day in Lyon with a coffee in your private Scenic Sun Lounge before choosing your adventure. Discover the city’s gastronomic soul at the famed Halles Paul Bocuse food market, or traverse historic "traboules" to the hilltop Basilica of Notre Dame. Alternatively, explore the medieval stone village of Pérouges or enjoy a guided cycle through the verdant Tête d’Or Park.
Day 5
Wake to the pastel-hued charm of Mâcon, your gateway to the rolling vineyards of Southern Burgundy. This morning, choose to delve into the world-famous Beaujolais wine region for a private tasting, or step back in time at the monumental Cluny Abbey. Alternatively, enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration at a Georges Blanc restaurant in Vonnas, or visit a local farm for a fascinating truffle-hunting experience and tasting. The day concludes with an extraordinary culinary highlight: an exclusive onboard dinner prepared by Michelin-starred Chef Didier Goiffon, showcasing the pinnacle of authentic French gastronomy.
Day 6
Arrive in Chavanay, a quintessential French village nestled among the steep, terraced vineyards of the Northern Rhône. This morning, choose to uncover the Roman legacy of nearby Vienne, featuring one of France's largest ancient theatres. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely cycle along the riverbanks or indulge in a private tasting of prestigious Côte-Rôtie and Saint-Joseph wines at a local estate. Back on board, the evening features a gourmet dinner perfectly paired with the region’s celebrated syrah and viognier.
Day 7
Arrive in Viviers, an "open-air museum" of narrow, winding lanes. Choose a guided architectural walk to the 11th-century Cathedral or hear moving tales of the French Resistance. Alternatively, join a Côtes du Rhône tasting to savour the region’s rustic character. Spend the afternoon relaxing on deck, cruising through lavender-scented landscapes toward the historic gates of Avignon.
Day 8
Explore Avignon’s medieval grandeur with a tour of the Palais des Papes or visit the Roman Pont du Gard. Alternatively, shop for local produce with your chef for a Scenic Culinaire class, or taste "the wine of Popes" in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Conclude with an exclusive Scenic Enrich classical concert inside the palace’s hallowed halls after hours.
Day 9
Arrive in Arles, a city teeming with Roman treasures and the vibrant light that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Choose to discover the region’s signature Rosé wines at a local vineyard or visit an olive oil mill to learn traditional Provençal recipes. Alternatively, take a guided walking tour of the ancient Roman Arena or trace the footsteps of Van Gogh through the colourful streets that sparked his greatest masterpieces.
Day 10 - 12
After a final breakfast on board, bid farewell to the Scenic Sapphire in Tarascon. Your culinary odyssey continues as you are transferred to the magnificent InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu for your final two nights. Perched above the historic Vieux Port, this luxury retreat offers the perfect vantage point to explore Marseille’s vibrant harbour, ancient fortresses, and world-class Mediterranean cuisine. Your journey comes to an end today as you depart from Marseille for your journey home.