Christmas along the Rhône - Between traditions, historical discoveries, and indulgent moments (port-to-port cruise)

Departure by coach to Charmes Castle, located in the commune of Charmes-sur-l'Herbasse. You will see gently rolling landscapes, dotted with woods, cultivated fields, and picturesque villages. Upon arrival at the castle, it suddenly appears, perched on a promontory overlooking the valley. This impressive building, dating back to the 11th century, is distinguished by its tall stone towers, battlements, and sturdy walls, testifying to its rich medieval past. The castle has been carefully restored, revealing authentic architecture and details that immediately immerse us in history. In winter, and especially during the Christmas season, Charmes-sur-l'Herbasse Castle transforms into a magical and enchanting place. As you enter the park, the castle is adorned with its most beautiful Christmas decorations and lights. A return to childhood, an immersive visit, as if you were a resident of the castle. Inside, the castle reveals a warm atmosphere, with rooms furnished with period pieces and modern installations that tell the story of its history and restoration. During this festive season, each room is enhanced with Christmas decorations. Every corner of the castle seems wrapped in the magic of the holidays, offering you a full immersion in the Christmas spirit. Discovering Charmes-sur-l'Herbasse Castle at Christmas is a unique experience where historical heritage blends with the magic of the season. To end the visit, treat yourself to a drink offered by the castle. Return by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure with your guide by coach. First, you will enjoy the magnificent view of Lyon from the heights of the Basilica before visiting its interior. In 1168, a chapel was built at Fourvière by Olivier de Chavannes, Canon of Saint John, on the ruins of the Roman forum. The small chapel, originally dedicated to St. Thomas and later to the Virgin, underwent destructions and reconstructions. The current form dates back to 1740, with the latest renovation in 2008. You will also have the opportunity to visit the crypt of the Basilica, a place of serenity and spirituality, often overlooked but of great historical and architectural significance. This exclusive visit will allow you to learn more about the history and legends surrounding this iconic monument. Return to the coach and continue to Old Lyon. You will take a walk, accompanied by your guide, through Old Lyon to discover the traboules. It is believed that the first traboules were built in the 4th century, when the inhabitants of Lugdunum (the Gallo-Roman name of present-day Lyon) lacking water, moved down to settle in the "lower town," along the Saône River, at the foot of the Fourvière hill. The traboules were used to quickly reach the Saône. Return to the coach for lunch.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

You will leave the boat on foot for the guided tour of Viviers. The third largest protected sector in the Rhône Alpes regions, residence of bishops since the 5th century, Viviers, a small town with a population of 3,500 is like an open-air museum, where every stone contains a page of history. You will be able to admire France's smallest Cathedral in this sumptuous medieval town. Among other things you will see the House of Knights with its superb Renaissance facade, the Tower of St Michael, the great seminary, and the Belvedere with an unobstructed view of Viviers.
Transfer by coach to Montélimar. You will visit a traditional nougat factory, followed by tastings. Since the 17th century, Montélimar has been famous the world over for its nougat, when the first almond trees were introduced into the region by Olivier de Serre and the first harvest led to the development of nougat production. Lively visit to the oldest traditional nougat factory in Montélimar where you can learn all there is to know about nougat - from the traditional methods of production in copper cauldrons and ending with sampling this delightful tasty confectionery. Return by coach to Viviers.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.