Flying from Newcastle 2024 & 2025
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The Seine, Paris & Normandy River Cruise
Experience more with so much included
Guided tour of historic Rouen
Visit to Claude Monet's house and beautiful garden
Explore Vernon, one of Normandy's most picturesque towns
Guided tour of Paris
See the Bayeux Tapestry
Tour the D-Day Normandy Beaches
Stop in Les Andelys, village of half-timbered houses and twisted alleys
Visit to delightful Honfleur, one of Normandy’s most alluring fishing ports
Cruise through the delightful Seine Valley
Price includes full board (except one lunch), from dinner on your day of arrival to breakfast on your final day
Services of a cruise director and tour manager
Flying from Newcastle
River Cruise 19 Jul 2024 10:45 Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£2,449.00 pp
River Cruise 02 Aug 2024 10:45 Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£1,999.00 pp
River Cruise 16 Aug 2024 10:45 Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£2,449.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Sep 2024 10:45 Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£2,449.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Apr 2025 TBC Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£1,799.00 pp
River Cruise 10 May 2025 TBC Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£1,999.00 pp
River Cruise 03 Jun 2025 TBC Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£2,249.00 pp
River Cruise 01 Sep 2025 TBC Newcastle Airport MS Jane Austen
£2,449.00 pp
Train and Eurostar from Newcastle
River Cruise 19 Jul 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,444.00 pp
26 Jul 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,044.00 pp
River Cruise 02 Aug 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,994.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Aug 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,594.00 pp
River Cruise 16 Aug 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,444.00 pp
River Cruise 02 Sep 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,444.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Sep 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,444.00 pp
River Cruise 16 Sep 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,444.00 pp
River Cruise 23 Sep 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,294.00 pp
River Cruise 10 Oct 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,394.00 pp
River Cruise 17 Oct 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,894.00 pp
River Cruise 24 Oct 2024 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,694.00 pp
River Cruise 02 Apr 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,664.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Apr 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,764.00 pp
River Cruise 26 Apr 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,864.00 pp
River Cruise 03 May 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,964.00 pp
River Cruise 10 May 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,964.00 pp
River Cruise 17 May 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,064.00 pp
River Cruise 03 Jun 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,214.00 pp
River Cruise 10 Jun 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,314.00 pp
River Cruise 17 Jun 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,314.00 pp
River Cruise 24 Jun 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,214.00 pp
River Cruise 01 Jul 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,114.00 pp
River Cruise 25 Jul 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,014.00 pp
River Cruise 01 Aug 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,964.00 pp
River Cruise 08 Aug 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,964.00 pp
River Cruise 15 Aug 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,014.00 pp
River Cruise 01 Sep 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,414.00 pp
River Cruise 08 Sep 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,414.00 pp
River Cruise 15 Sep 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,414.00 pp
River Cruise 22 Sep 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£2,264.00 pp
River Cruise 09 Oct 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,964.00 pp
River Cruise 16 Oct 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,864.00 pp
River Cruise 23 Oct 2025 TBC Newcastle Station**** MS Jane Austen
£1,664.00 pp
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day (excluding one lunch); if you choose to travel with us on any of the full day excursions by coach, a packed lunch will be provided. Anyone choosing to stay on the ship may of course have lunch in the restaurant; morning/afternoon tea and coffee; all visits and excursions as mentioned in the brochure, airport/station transfers, coach travel as mentioned, travel to and from port of embarkation and the services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director.
Please note that on-board Wi-Fi speeds may vary.
Day one ARRIVAL IN PARIS
Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris or fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. On arrival, transfer by coach to your cruise ship moored on the River Seine in the heart of the city. The friendly crew will welcome you on board, helping you settle into your spacious and exquisitely furnished accommodation – you’ll immediately feel at home. This evening you enjoy your first sumptuous dinner, served in the ship’s restaurant.
Day two ARRIVAL IN PARIS
Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris or fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. On arrival, transfer by coach to your cruise ship moored on the River Seine in the heart of the city. The friendly crew will welcome you on board, helping you settle into your spacious and exquisitely furnished accommodation – you’ll immediately feel at home. This evening you enjoy your first sumptuous dinner, served in the ship’s restaurant.
Day two LES ANDELYS
During the night our ship slips her mooring and, as you enjoy breakfast, the landscape passes by serenely and you quickly get used to this luxurious sightseeing experience. Rounding a sweeping bend so typical of the Seine, we reach the town of Mantes-la-Jolie with its imposing church – so large and architecturally impressive it could be a cathedral – while straight ahead is a medieval stone bridge. The central section of the bridge was destroyed during the Second World War and never repaired – it’s the first of many poignant reminders that this region of France has been a battleground for centuries.
Beyond Mantes we encounter another typical feature of the Seine as it flows seaward – picturesque chalk cliffs, almost resembling a giant’s teeth. Beautiful villages like La Roche Guyon slide by, surrounded by bocage countryside of lush pastures and high hedgerows, countless cider orchards, half-timbered barns and ancient wooden farmhouses. We’re truly in the heart of one of France’s historic and stunningly attractive dukedoms – Normandy.
While you’re enjoying your first delicious lunch, the captain has skilfully berthed at Les Andelys, a small town dominated by one of the most spectacular sights along the entire valley – Château Gaillard. This remarkable castle guards the apex of the river bend and was built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century to defend Rouen from the French. Besieged many times during the turbulent history of northern France, Château Gaillard is now one of the most dramatic ruins in the region.
A much-appreciated feature of our river cruises is that they’re thoughtfully planned and paced, allowing time to explore the many places of interest we visit. So this afternoon you are free to roam the town of Les Andelys at your leisure, investigating the Gallo-Roman remains, churches and museums of two former fishing villages that grew together, or alternatively join the short drive up to Château Gaillard. From this spectacular vantage point – probably the finest of the entire cruise – you enjoy stupendous views across the countryside.
During your second excellent dinner we slip our mooring unobtrusively, and what could be better than heading to the lounge for a digestif and a chance to discuss your impressions of the Seine with your like-minded companions? The evening cruise is delightful as we glide past more bucolic scenery, some of the finest France can offer. Should you wish why not visit the wheelhouse, the Captain is always delighted to explain to those interested how the highly sophisticated navigation and safety systems operate.
Day three ROUEN
We awake in Rouen, Normandy’s capital, one of Europe’s finest medieval cities and scene of many momentous events over the centuries. Pride of place on our guided tour of the city belongs to its stunning Gothic cathedral, which was immortalised by the great Impressionist Claude Monet in a series of 28 paintings showing the facade at varying times of day and in different weather conditions. Briefly becoming the world’s tallest building when the soaring spire was added in the 19th century, the cathedral is also notable for the recumbent statue reputedly containing the heart of Richard the Lionheart.
Rouen’s beautifully tangled alleyways are a revelation, lined with antique shops, tasteful boutiques and, of course, countless restaurants serving exceptional local cuisine emphasising the country’s outstanding gastronomic heritage. The Place du Vieux-Marché is one of the city’s most poignant spots; a large cross marks the point where the ‘Maid of Orléans’ Joan of Arc was burned at the stake for her beliefs.
During another superb lunch we cast off to navigate through yet more twists and turns, chalk cliffs and a landscape of forest-covered hills that are designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty and sanctuaries for diverse wildlife, including deer and wild boar. Another highlight of the valley soon greets us – the ethereal ruins of Jumièges Abbey. Founded in the 7th century, it was consecrated in the presence of William the Conqueror and was an important political and religious centre until it was sacked in the 16th century. In the late afternoon we moor in the pretty town of Caudebec-en-Caux, so after dinner why not take a stroll to explore this lovely spot, with its typical market square, richly decorated church and the Maison des Templiers, one of the oldest houses in Normandy.
Day four BAYEUX & ARROMANCHES
After breakfast you’ll be ready for a full-day tour exploring two of the most important aspects of European history – the Bayeux Tapestry and the D-Day landings. (Please note lunch is not provided today.) Bayeux itself is a delightful town with a historic core that escaped the ravages of war, so you can marvel at its many splendid buildings including the grand Gothic cathedral. But, of course, Bayeux is most famous as the home of the tapestry telling the story of the Norman invasion of Britain in 1066 in glorious detail. Among its 75 scenes are the coronation of Harold following the death of Edward the Confessor and his subsequent demise at the Battle of Hastings, which led to William of Normandy invading England and becoming king. The 230-foot-long tapestry is made up of nine panels of extremely delicate embroidery – gazing at its wonderful depictions of the battle and the period’s architecture, weapons and everyday life, you’ll appreciate why the Bayeux Tapestry is arguably the finest relic of the Middle Ages.
This afternoon we drive to nearby Gold Beach, one of the five main landing sites on D-Day, when Allied forces surged into Normandy to begin the liberation of occupied Europe. Casting your eyes across the sand to the water’s edge, it’s sobering to consider that on 6 June 1944 around 25,000 British troops came ashore on this one beach, with 400 killed by the defenders. At the western end of the shoreline is the village of Arromanches, where there is a museum dedicated to the ‘longest day’ and you can still see remnants of the two Mulberry harbours constructed for the landing craft. After a day recalling such momentous events and the stories surrounding them, thoughts turn again to the culinary delights awaiting you in the refined comfort of the ship’s restaurant.
Day five HONFLEUR
Honfleur is often regarded as the most picturesque spot on the northern French coast, and after breakfast we make the short journey to this delightful town. Its old harbour, sheltering both fishing boats and luxurious pleasure craft, is beautifully preserved and surrounded by a perfect waterfront of pastel-coloured 16th- to 18th-century houses, many converted to seafood restaurants. Watch the talented artists capturing the captivating views along the waterfront, while the intricate maze of streets behind is also well worth discovering. The eaves of the tall half-timbered buildings almost touch, and on the streets below is an abundance of traditional shops selling antiques, books and fine foods. Honfleur’s most famous son is Eugene Boudin, one of the forerunners of Impressionism and a friend of Claude Monet, who also painted the harbour many times.
After returning to the ship for lunch, we slip our mooring and begin our passage back upstream, retracing the river’s winding course, its huge variety of wildlife, enchanting scenery and forests, all reflected in differing colours in the sparkling waters. Villages slip by, birds glide on thermals rising from the surrounding cliffs and, as this ever-changing kaleidoscope slips by, it’s an ideal opportunity to join new friends for a chat. Squeeze in a spot of reading on the Sun Deck or simply recline, letting the gentle breezes lull you into a relaxing doze. By this stage of your cruise you’ll be totally unwound and modern life will seem very distant.
Day six GIVERNY & VERNON
One of the great delights of river cruising is the magical sensation of waking up in a different place from where you were the night before. This morning the ship has moored in delightful Vernon, and we take the short drive to Giverny to visit Monet’s garden and house. The artist himself called his garden his ‘most beautiful masterpiece’, and it’s certainly one of the world’s most photographed and painted, ideally viewed in the delicate morning light. In the Japanese-inspired water garden, shaded by great weeping willows and surrounded by bamboo, rhododendrons and azaleas, is the lily pond where he painted his extraordinary Les Nymphéas (Water Lilies) series. There’s ample time to wander here, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere while marvelling at the light bouncing off foliage of every hue and the magical reflections dancing off the water.
After another leisurely lunch on board, you can explore Vernon’s quaint buildings before embarking on our cruise to Paris. As the sun sets on the shimmering Seine and the Norman countryside recedes into dusk, it’s a perfect time to reflect on your few days cruising among the creamy chalk cliffs and charming villages of this splendid river.
Day seven PARIS
We have arrived in Paris and this morning we take a sightseeing tour of this amazing capital, one of the world’s most iconic cities. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées, Sacré-Coeur – you’ll see all these and much more. The grand Place de la Concorde, the largest square in the city, shows off 18th-century French architecture at its best, and just over the Seine on the Left Bank you’ll find the Musée d’Orsay, home of the world’s finest Impressionist art collection. Then there’s the eccentrically modern and yet stylish Pompidou Centre, famous not only for its exhibits but also for street entertainment. Notre-Dame Cathedral and the delicate spire of the sublime Saint-Chapelle dominate the Ile de la Cité, while the exquisite Tuileries Gardens are perfect for a stroll.
After lunch on board you could visit fine shops such as the Galeries Lafayette or those in the smart arcaded Rue de Rivoli, or perhaps wander around the café-lined streets of bohemian Montmartre. Paris is everything you imagine it to be – romantic, inspiring, vibrant – even outrageous – but best of all Paris is unique, and a fitting finale to a wonderful cruise. This evening is the Captain’s Dinner, hosted of course by the Captain himself. Featuring specialities of the regions through which we have travelled, it’s a truly memorable experience.
Day eight RETURN HOME
Transfer to the airport for your return flight or the station for the Eurostar service home.
Paris, Normandy & Historic Treasures of the Seine River Cruise
Eleven night river cruise
22 Aug 2025 MS Jane Austen £2,699 pp
Free Superior drinks package
10 nights on board a five-star ship
12 included experiences
Full board dining*
Return flights & transfers
Return Eurostar & transfers
Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
Checked luggage
Free Wi-Fi
Highlights
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Pairs, one of the world's most beautiful cities
Discover historic Rouen on a walking tour, one of France's most perfectly preserved medieval cities
See Arromanches and the WWII D-Day Beaches on our poignant excursion
Visit to Caudebec-en-Caux and Claude Monet's house to see the 'Water Lillies' pond and 'Japanese Footbridge'
Explore our destinations on guided tours including Auvers-sur-Oise, Honfleur or the white cliffs of Étretat, Abbey Jumièges & Abbey St Wandrille and the Château de Malmaison
Join an optional visit to the Palace of Versailles, the grand residence of Louis XIV displaying magnificent works of art and landscaped gardens
DAY ONE Arrival in Paris
Arrive at your five-star cruise ship moored on the banks of the Seine. There’s the warmest of welcomes from your crew as you step on board this luxury floating hotel, and they’ll be on hand to help you familiarise yourself with the ship and settle in. This evening enjoy your first superb dinner served in the elegant surroundings of the ship’s restaurant.
DAY TWO Paris
After breakfast on board, we disembark for a sightseeing tour of this iconic capital and ‘city of lights’. The list of must-sees here goes on and on - the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées, Sacré-Coeur, Notre Dame to name but a few, and we’ll learn more about this amazing city through the eyes of our local expert. The grand Place de la Concorde, the largest square in the city, shows off 18th-century French architecture at its best, and just over the Seine on the Left Bank you’ll find the Musee d’Orsay, home of the world’s finest Impressionist art collection. Then there’s the stylish Pompidou Centre, famous not only for its exhibits but also for street entertainment, while the exquisite Tuileries Gardens are perfect for a stroll.
Cruise towards Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
Back on board lunch is served, after which we’ve an afternoon’s cruising in store. As we slip our mooring and glide away from this historic city, sit back and soak up the views. A comfortable sun lounger awaits on deck to watch the world go by, or chat over a cup of tea in the lounge whilst the river vistas silently drift past the panoramic windows.
During tonight’s dinner, we arrive in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine where we moor overnight. After dinner, retire to the lounge to enjoy a local performer entertaining us with the French and international chansons in a tribute to Edith Piaf.
Included experiences
Guided tour of Paris & on-board performance of chanson classics.
DAY THREE Auvers-sur-Oise
This morning we drive through the sleepy bocage countryside, a green landscape of lush pastures and high hedgerows to the captivating village of Auvers-sur-Oise, which has welcomed and inspired a host of famous artists through the centuries. Cezanne, Pissarro and most notably Vincent Van Gogh, who famously shot himself and was buried here in 1890, all drew inspiration from this picturesque spot with Van Gogh describing the little town as ‘seriously beautiful’. During a guided tour with a local expert, visit the elegant Château d'Auvers, an historic Louis XIII-style building, with all the style and ambience associated with 19th-century Impressionism where you can immerse yourself in the history of this world-renowned period. After a tour of its splendid interior, stroll the blissful gardens, admiring the perfumed blooms, manicured hedges and cooling fountains.
Cruise towards Rouen
We return to the ship for lunch and set sail towards our next stop, so relax and enjoy the facilities on board. Seek out a sun lounger up on deck to while away the afternoon with some holiday reading as we sail through the enchanting Normandy landscape, awash with fragrant cider orchards, half-timbered barns and characterful wooden farmhouses. Reconvene in the bar for an aperitif before the chef presents tonight’s excellent menu.
Included experience
Guided tour of Auver-sur-Oise.
DAY FOUR Rouen
Awake in Rouen, Normandy’s capital, one of Europe’s finest medieval cities and scene of many momentous events over the centuries. After breakfast we disembark to uncover the treasures of this fascinating city through the insightful eyes of our local guide. The jewel in Rouen’s crown is its stunning Gothic cathedral, which was immortalised by another of the great Impressionists, Claude Monet in a series of twenty-eight paintings depicting its impressive façade at varying times of day and in different seasons. Briefly becoming the world’s tallest building when its soaring spire was added during the 19th century, the cathedral is also notable for the tomb containing the heart of Richard the Lionheart.
You’ll find Rouen’s network of tangled alleys a treat to explore, lined with antique shops, smart boutiques and of course, a host of exceptional restaurants from which drifts the delicious aromas of this region’s gastronomic heritage. The Place du Vieux-Marché is one of the city’s most poignant spots; a large cross indicates where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake for her beliefs.
Cruise towards Le Havre
After lunch, we continue our cruise along the Seine’s magnificent course, passing chalk cliffs and a landscape of forest-covered hills that are designated areas of outstanding natural beauty and sanctuaries for diverse wildlife, including deer and wild boar. Another highlight of the valley soon greets us – the ethereal ruins of Jumiéges Abbey – which we rediscover later in the cruise.
After dinner, retire to the laid-back ambience of the bar for a digestif as we sail overnight to Le Havre.
Included experienceGuided tour of Rouen.
DAY FIVE Arromanches & D-Day beaches
This morning we are in Le Havre, and after breakfast we disembark for a full day visit to the D-Day Normandy Beaches. We visit the British Cemetery in Ranville followed by the Pegasus Bridge Memorial, made famous in the film The Longest Day. Ranville was the first French village to be liberated after the British 6th Airborne Division captured the bridge, preventing a German counter-attack during the weeks that followed the Normandy Invasion. We stop to pay our respects at the Canadian War Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer then continue to Courseulles for lunch at leisure. Later we visit the Juno Beach Centre, situated immediately behind the beach codenamed Juno, the section of the Allied beachhead on which 14,000 Canadian troops landed on D-Day; the museum pays homage to the 45,000 Canadians killed during the war.
The day concludes with a scenic drive along the Landing Beaches to Arromanches-les-Bains. This has the best viewing point to Gold Beach, one of the five main landing sites on D-Day, when Allied forces surged into Normandy to begin the liberation of occupied Europe. Casting your eyes across the sand to the water’s edge, it’s sobering to consider that on 6 June 1944 around 25,000 British troops came ashore on this one beach, with 400 killed by the defenders.
After a truly poignant and memorable day, we return to the ship for another excellent dinner, before a talented musician and singer will take us on a journey through the repertoire of French classics.
We’ll remain moored in Le Havre overnight.
Included experiences
Visit to Arromanches and the D-Day Normandy Beaches & French chanson evening on board.
DAY SIX Honfleur or Étretat
This morning, you can choose to visit the charming town of Honfleur or discover the natural coastal beauty surrounding Étretat which has inspired many painters and writers.
Honfleur is often regarded as the most picturesque spot on the northern French coast, and it’s a short drive to this captivating town. Its old harbour, sheltering both fishing boats and luxurious pleasure craft, is beautifully preserved and surrounded by a waterfront of pastel-coloured 16th to 18th-century houses, many converted into seafood restaurants which waft delicious aromas onto the quayside. Watch talented artists capturing the views along the waterfront, while the intricate maze of streets nestling behind invites exploration. Honfleur’s most famous son is Eugene Boudin, one of the forerunners of Impressionism and a friend of Claude Monet, who depicted Honfleur’s harbour in many of his works.
Alternatively, join our visit to the pretty seaside town of Étretat to discover the region’s legendary coastal views. Enjoy sweeping views of dramatic white cliffs, eroded away over the centuries to create unusual rock formations – again the subject of many an Impressionist’s canvas. Most famous is the aiguille, a sharp pinnacle protruding from the depths and the striking Aval Arch, famously immortalised by Monet and Boudin. Explore Étretat’s lattice of little streets, with quaint tucked away shops and restaurants and an unusual wooden covered market or take a walk up to the town’s Asian-inspired gardens, which afford stunning views of the cliffs and town. Perhaps visit the half-timbered 19th-century villa Le Clos Lupin, the former home of the French children’s writer, Maurice Leblanc, now an interesting museum celebrating his life and work.
Cruise towards Caudebec-en-Caux
We return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon there’s another opportunity to relax on board. Soak up the views as we sail through a lush landscape of verdant pastures and thickly forested slopes. During tonight’s superb dinner we arrive and moor in charming Caudebec-en-Caux.
Included experience
Visit to Honfleur or Étretat.
DAY SEVEN Abbey Jumièges & Abbey Saint-Wandrille
You might choose to spend the morning exploring Caudebec-en-Caux, and its astounding cathedral, a 15th-century gothic masterpiece. Admire its intricate external decoration and beautifully carved stonework, then step inside to marvel at the superb medieval stained glass, statues and impressive 16th-century organ. Look out for the unusual Maison de Templiers, one of the oldest houses in Normandy thought to date from the 12th century with arched windows and attractive gothic façade, the 14th-century former town prison and two historic towers, remnants of Caudebec’s defenses. Or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, admiring the houses and pretty gardens soaking up this tranquil scene.
Alternatively join our visit firstly to the majestic Abbey Jumièges, one of the loveliest ruins in France and a fine example of Norman Romanesque architecture. With a history dating back to 654, the original buildings were ransacked by the Viking invasions, but the abbey was rebuilt and by the mid-13th century had gained enormous influence in religious practice and learning. It prospered until the 17th century, but its final demise came with the French Revolution when it was forced to close along with all other religious institutions, sold in 1791 and became a stone quarry. Fortunately, by the 19th century, it became an icon of the Romantic Movement which prevented further destruction of the site. Today, you cannot fail to be impressed by the scale of these beautiful ruins set in acres of peaceful grounds. We continue to the working Abbey Saint-Wandrille, founded in the 7th century and one of the first Benedictine abbeys in Normandy. It’s a delight to wander this serene place admiring the stonework and statues, and if you’re lucky, hear the monks chanting in prayer.
Cruise towards Vernon
We return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon of scenic sailing; cool off in the splash pool, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or settle down with a good book in a comfortable lounger. We sail overnight to Vernon.
Included experiences
Visit to Caudebec-en-Caux or Abbey Jumièges & Abbey of Saint-Wandrille.
DAY EIGHT Claude Monet's house & garden at Giverny & La Roche Guyon
Giverny
After breakfast we take a short drive to Giverny to visit Monet’s house and garden. The artist himself called his garden his ‘most beautiful masterpiece’ and it’s certainly one of the world’s most photographed and painted, ideally viewed in the delicate morning light. In the Japanese-inspired water garden, shaded by great weeping willows and surrounded by bamboo, rhododendrons and azaleas, is the lily pond where he painted his extraordinary Water Lilies series. There’s time to wander here, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere while marvelling at the light bouncing off the foliage of every hue and the magical reflections shimmering on the water.
We rejoin the ship for a leisurely lunch, followed by an on-board cheese & cider tasting as we sail to La Roche Guyon. A local Farmer joins us to explain the different stages in the production of cider - from apple juice to brandy, with a chance to taste paired with cheese and rillettes.
La Roche Guyon
This afternoon we visit the remarkable 18th-century Château de la Roche Guyon which towers over a loop of the Seine. Built up against the cliff that once concealed it from the world, it was originally an invisible cave dwelling at the time of the Norman invasions, that evolved through the ages with a mixture of architectural styles to become the elegant chateau we’ll see today. A castle dating from medieval times crowns the site, against a backdrop of thickly forested slopes. Wander the extensive gardens, with regimented paths and fruit trees sweeping down to the river and enjoy the superb views over the water.
We return to the ship where dinner awaits during which we slip our moorings and sail on to Mantes-La-Jolie, arriving later that night.
Included experiences
Visit to Claude Monet's house and garden, on-board cheese & cider tasting & visit to Château de La Roche Guyon.
DAY NINE Château de Malmaison
This morning we make the short journey to the lavish Château de Malmaison, former residence of Napoleon I and his first wife Joséphine de Beauharnais. The name is thought to have derived from the existence of a hideout once located here, used by the Norman invaders as a base for their raids in the surrounding area. The grand palace you see today dates from the 18th-century however, and as you wander through the sumptuous interiors of the château, decorated in Empire style, you’ll be transported back in time to a fascinating and glamorous era of French history. The château was bought by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 and became the seat of the French government together with the Tuileries from 1800-1802, and frequently played host to meetings of the ministers of the consulate. After the couple divorced in 1809, Josephine made the house her permanent home until her death here in 1814. See their private apartments – Napoleon’s secret staircase and Josephine’s opulent red and gilt bedroom, the highly decorated library and drawing rooms with exquisite furnishings and priceless artworks. Stroll through the splendid gardens, filled with plants and statues which were personally chosen by Joséphine, pausing to admire a beautifully restored pavilion and enjoy the delicate fragrance from the superb rose garden.
Cruise towards Issy
After lunch back on board, settle in for an afternoon’s cruising as we drift away from this picturesque spot. We pass by Mantes-la-Jolie’s old medieval stone bridge; the central section was destroyed during World War II and never repaired – another poignant reminder that this area of France has been a battleground for centuries.
This evening it’s time for another highlight in the elegant restaurant with the Chef’s Dinner, featuring some of their signature dishes - a truly memorable experience. Later we moor in Issy, on the outskirts of the French capital.
Included experience
Visit to Château de Malmaison.
DAY TEN Paris
This morning, enjoy free time in Paris, or join an optional visit to the magnificent Palace of Versailles and the outstanding Versailles Gardens.
Everything used in the construction of the palace was created in France and for over a century it was considered the ideal against which all European palaces were measured; as you explore the Royal Apartments with their antiques, tapestries and priceless artworks, and the Royal Opera and Chapel with its exceptional decoration, you’ll soon see why. The famous Hall of Mirrors with its 357 mirrors is truly a sight to behold, so too the immaculate gardens with their topiary hedges, sculptures and refreshing fountains.
During lunch on board, our ship leaves Issy to a more central mooring in Paris, so enjoy the familiar sight of this iconic skyline with the Eiffel Tower again coming into view. This afternoon there’s free time in Paris to explore as you wish. Take in a museum, such as Europe’s oldest science museum, dating from 1794 with its vast collection of inventions and industrial design or soak up artistic treasures in the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay with its world-renowned collections of artwork, furniture, sculpture and photography. Browse the legendary stores such as Galeries Lafayette, the smart boutiques in the arcaded Rue de Rivoli, or bohemian Montmartre’s quirky galleries and independent shops. After another memorable day, return to the ship for tonight’s final dinner in the company of newfound friends.
Included experience
Visit to Paris.
DAY ELEVEN Return home
After breakfast, depart the ship and transfer to the airport for your journey home.
Tours operated by Riviera Travel. ATOL NO 3430
Westoe Travel act as agents for Riviera Travel
Riviera Travel Terms and Conditions apply
All passengers must have a valid passport for this tour. Depending on the country issuing your passport, a visa may also be required. More information can be found at the Identity & Passport Service
Identity and Passport service
Customers should ensure that they are fit enough to travel, please check with your General Practitioner and www.fco.gov.uk/travel and www.nathnac.org
The latest advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office about traveling abroad
Foreign and commonwealth office
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Call Just Travel Cover 0800 2942972 quoting reference L4746 for best prices OR
Click here for Just Travel Cover Insurance
Call Holiday Extras 0800 0833551 quoting reference L4746 for best prices or
Click here for Holiday Extras Insurance
Mobility We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns
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