Flavours of Burgundy River Cruise, Amawaterways

Day 1

Departing Henley we drive to Windsor, with free time to explore this beautiful Regal town. Enjoy a wide range of shops, cafes & restaurants, not forgetting its centuries of history including magnificent Windsor Castle, the home to many British Monarchs over the last 1000 years. Late afternoon check into the Radisson Hotel Heathrow for dinner and your overnight stay.(D).

Day 2

An early check in for our 07.55 Flight to Lyon with British Airways. Upon arrival we are met by a local coach for the onward transfer to Dijon. Board the ship for your Flavours of Burgundy Cruise (D).

Day 3

Famously known as the "Birthplace of Mustard," Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon's medieval centre which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river's access to the Rhône-Rhine Canal. Or choose to visit the stunning Château d'Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d'Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. Transfer to Seurre and enjoy a free evening. (B,L,D).

Day 4

Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d'Or vineyards where you will stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing by the picturesque city of Chalon-Sur-Saône. Alternatively, visit Clos de Vougeot, a wall-enclosed vineyard with over 900 years of wine-making history and savour the flavours of the regional wines. (B,L,D).

Day 5

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalone's wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region's famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Chalon-sur-Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D).

Day 6

Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Mâcon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon. (B,L,D).

Day 7

Join a guided tour through the "South Burgundy City" of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world's largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture.(B,L,D).

Day 8

Discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city's historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city's unique covered walkways, known as "traboules." Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. If you are a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you will have a chance to taste some of Lyon's local delights. Later in the day, enjoy a tasting of Beaujolais wines. (B,L,D).

Day 9

Bid farewell to Lyon and prepare for your return flight home. (B).