From the moment I stepped on board in Arles, I felt instantly relaxed. The front desk team were warm and welcoming, and meeting Tony, our Cruise Director, set the tone for the week. With 17 years’ experience in the region, he brought a calm, engaging and professional presence that immediately put me at ease.

The guest demographic also caught my attention. On our sailing, the majority were between 50 and 65 years of age, with a diverse mix of Canadians, Welsh, Australians and New Zealanders. Compared to some competing vessels we were moored alongside, which appeared to skew older, Avalon felt refreshingly contemporary and social.

Arles itself is a fascinating introduction to southern France. Its Roman amphitheatre and theatre remain impressively preserved, and the city’s connection to Vincent van Gogh adds another cultural layer. As we sailed away past castle ruins lining the riverbanks, enjoying snails in garlic butter, it was hard not to feel completely immersed in the region.

In Avignon, the Palais des Papes was a highlight. Walking through Europe’s largest Gothic palace, overlooking the Rhône River, offered a powerful glimpse into its 14th-century papal history. After exploring the charming laneways and sampling an exceptional chocolate éclair, we returned to the ship for dinner. As a foodie, the duck à l’orange that evening was a standout, perfectly cooked and easily my favourite main course of the cruise.

Further north, the charming town of Tournon delivered cobbled streets and exceptional local guides who consistently went the extra mile. Sailing into Vienne, we explored remarkable 2,000-year-old Roman ruins before experiencing an unforgettable open-air jazz festival under the stars.

One of the most memorable days combined the medieval village of Pérouges, often used as a film set, with the striking modern Musée des Confluences in Lyon. That evening, Bastille Day fireworks illuminated the sky over the Saône River. Watching the display from the ship was simply magical. Gala Night followed, relaxed yet elegant in the summer heat, with lobster served to close out the celebrations in style.

Our final stop in Chalon-sur-Saône was framed by Burgundy’s rolling vineyards. A Chardonnay tasting at a château provided the perfect farewell to the region. Walking along the Saône, reflecting on the cuisine, culture and scenery we had experienced, reinforced just how special this itinerary is.

Avalon Waterways delivered an elevated yet relaxed luxury experience, combining attentive service, excellent dining and immersive local experiences. Burgundy and Provence truly deserve their place on any river cruise wish list.