STELLA is a modern river cruise ship with excellent comfort and lots of space. The boat features…
Built in 2005, STELLA can accommodate up to 174 guests, offering them a unique and comprehensive onboard experience.
Cabins
The ship boasts 86 spacious elegant cabins. There are three categories of cabins, and you can choose the one you prefer. All three cabin types are equally equipped and they have the same layout: they feature modern furnishings and amenities including air conditioning, safe, TV, fly screen, hairdryer, toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, and bathrobe on request. The difference among cabins is the deck and the windows.
Spa treatments
Aboard STELLA, there is a large selection of beauty and body treatments with high quality products. A professionally trained spa and beauty team will pamper you! You have a 15% discount on spa treatments. The boat offers…
This Rhone bike & boat tour is beginner-friendly, but good fitness is a must. This route takes you through picturesque wine-growing landscapes of the Rhone Valley along the steeply terraced slopes. The total distance covered by e-bike is 300 km (186 miles), with daily rides being between 14-40 miles (22-65 km). Mostly you’ll cycle on rural country roads with light traffic.
Your guides rate this tour as easy to moderate. Although the south of France is very mountainous, the routes are not particularly strenuous as you often start with the e-bike above the river valleys and ride a lot more downhill and uphill. And all gradients are easy to ride with e-bikes. On your premium pedelec equipped with Bosch or Shimano mid-mounted motor, you can decide how much assistance you require!
Non-riders can also join the tour. If that’s the case, non-riders should contact us prior to booking the trip.
Time stands still in Provence, and its immaculate atmosphere is felt as soon as you get here. A really unique way to discover this gorgeous part of France is by joining a bike & boat journey—8 days of cruising along the romantic Rhône river, exploring its varied landscapes by bike, and surrendering to a luxe experience aboard a cruise ship. Provence is where Van Gogh thrived, and with our daily cycling tours, you’ll understand why: lush vineyards, limestone gorges, golden-hued villages, vibrant towns, lavender fields, and so much more. Once we get back to the ship, there’s a whole world of possibilities—relax by the pool, play large-figure chess, treat yourself to spa treatments, unwind in a bar… This all-inclusive experience along the Rhône river is for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
You can choose between three cabin categories: category A, C, or D. By choosing this category A option, you will get a cabin on the lowest deck with fixed windows. More information on cabins is found in the Things to know section. Itinerary remains the same.
This bike & boat journey along the Rhône river is a deluxe way of exploring Provence. Over the course of 8 days, we’ll discover medieval villages, lavender fields, quiet roads, endless vineyards, and Provence’s most beautiful spots. Our home for the week will be the modern and luxurious STELLA, a ship boasting countless entertainment and spa possibilities, that will calmly cruise along the Rhone river. All lodgings are included, as well as all meals, guided day tours, a wine tasting, city tours, and much more. Provence will win you over—and it’s going to be really difficult to leave!
At 4pm, your tour guides await your arrival in Lyon, where you will be warmly welcomed on board. After you have settled into your cabin, your guide will give you a briefing of the trip ahead. Weather permitting, the welcome can take place on the sun deck, where you can soak up the sun.
Afterwards, enjoy your first dinner on board as the ship sails north on the calm waters of the Saône. Departure from Lyon is scheduled for 6pm, marking the start of your enchanting journey south. In the evening, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon’s old town on a panoramic cruise and admire the city’s historic landmarks and charming streets in the light of the night sky. A delightful introduction to the rich culture and beauty that awaits you on this unforgettable journey.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Our first cycle tour of this trip takes us along the Rhône from Tain-l’Hermitage to the Roche de Glun island near Valence on the western side of the river and then back on the eastern side. Marvel at the dam with the hydroelectric power station on the Rhône, the 14th century Diane de Poitiers tower and the Marc Seguin footbridge, which was built by Marc Seguin between 1847 and 1849. Join us to taste the famous Valrhona chocolate for which Tain-l’Hermitage is renowned. In the afternoon, enjoy the beauty of the passing landscape from the sun deck as the STELLA gently steers its course south.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Early in the morning, the STELLA docks not far from the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where your bikes will be waiting for us at the dock. We will cycle to the charming village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where we’ll learn about the production of exquisite reds during a wine tasting. After lunch, say goodbye to the world-famous vineyards and cycle through the fertile fruit and vegetable growing area.
On our way back to Avignon, we’ll pass one of the largest islands in the Rhône and cycle to the Avignon Bridge. Admire the iconic Pont d’Avignon, a symbol of the city’s medieval festivals, where exuberant parties once took place! Did you know that the famous song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” should actually be called “Sous le pont d’Avignon”? We’ll learn about the rich history of Avignon with a fascinating city tour. We’ll learn about the gardens of Toompea Hill, once popes’ residence. The ship will remain in Avignon overnight, giving us plenty of time to stroll the narrow streets before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
The ship continued on to Arles overnight and docked at the gates of the old town of Arles in the morning. We’ll get on our e-bikes and drive to the picturesque town of St. Remy de Provence. This picturesque town is where Vincent Van Gogh lived for a time in a private clinic housed in a former monastery. After a delicious lunch in St. Rémy, we will continue our exploration to the monumental art center Carrières de Lumières, located in the heart of the breathtaking Alpilles. Every year, this art center hosts a spectacular exhibition of the works of famous artists from throughout history.
We will then leave the Alpilles on small side routes and drive down into the fertile alluvial plains of the Rhône. We pass charming Provençal villages, meander along fields of wheat and sunflowers, and finally reach Arles. Arles, a Roman royal city, has a magnificent amphitheater in the city center, considered one of the best preserved in France. Even today, bloody bullfights still take place within the historic walls. We can explore the ornate Romanesque portal of the Saint Trophime Cathedral or enjoy an espresso in the famous Café de la Nuit, immortalized by van Gogh.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 65 km / 40 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
After a short transfer, it’s off to the untouched marshlands that border Arles. On the way, we will witness the vast salt hills and fields, which are among the largest in Europe, offering a fascinating panorama. As we go deeper into the nature reserve, our path leads us through flat rice fields. On the shores of the brackish lakes, black storks, grey herons, and bee-eaters grace the landscape, while Egyptian ibises bask in the warm sunlight. The shallow saltwater lakes are home to flamingos, and their pink wings standing out against the azure sky are a sight! If we’re lucky, the legendary white Camargue horses may cross our path!
Along a flat embankment that seems to merge with the sea, we reach Saintes Maries de la Mer. This fortified church is an annual pilgrimage site for gypsies from all over Europe and once inspired Picasso with its rousing flamenco performances. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the crypt and discover the story of the three Marys and their servant Sara. After a lunch break by the sea, a transfer will take us back to the Roman city of Arles, where we will visit the Roman amphitheater of Arles on a guided tour.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 32 km / 20 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
In the morning, we admire the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and “Crozes Hermitages.” A bus takes us to the stunning Ardèche gorge, where our guide shares the history of the UNESCO World Heritage cave systems and their Stone Age settlements. We switch to e-bikes to explore the garrigue landscape, passing lavender fields and holm oak forests until the Ardèche river gorge appears. Carved up to 300 meters deep into the rock, the river has created a majestic landscape of winding cliffs and caves, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the scenic road that traces its edge.
Here, we’ll encounter rock paintings of our ancestors within the caves. We’ll have the opportunity to explore one such cave system! By noon, we’ll have returned to the ship and we can spend the afternoon on the sun deck or in the onboard spa. In the evening, we enjoy a final dinner in the wine bar aboard the STELLA. As we dine, the ship sets sail back to Lyon overnight, concluding our journey through southern France.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 24 miles / 38 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Enjoy a late breakfast and spend the morning on board while the ship gently sails back to Lyon. In the afternoon, we’ll do a city tour of Lyon, often referred to as the gateway to the south and the secret capital of gourmets! Here, the Saône flows into the Rhône and divides the city center into two distinct parts: a lively district with magnificent 19th-century facades and the picturesque old town of St. Jean. In St. Jean, you can discover the Renaissance houses that were once inhabited by wealthy cloth merchants and bankers.
These buildings reveal their true splendor on the inside, with inner courtyards accessible through narrow passageways known as “traboules”. These corridors served as escape routes in times of conflict and reflect Lyon’s rich history, which was characterized by feuds between citizens and bishops as well as Catholics and Protestants. Connoisseurs know that some bourgeois apartments house paintings by famous artists such as Gauguin and Cézanne, which cannot be seen from the outside! Lyon’s superb history has earned the city recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 14 miles / 22 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
As the morning light gently illuminates Lyon, our ship docks once again in this vibrant city. After enjoying a delightful breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to our floating home. Around 9am, disembark from the ship and either head home or stay a bit longer in the area to explore it!
Meals: Breakfast
Please be aware the changes to the itinerary may occur. Factors such as high and low tide, maintenance work, and waiting times and locks and bridges may affect the program. In rare instances of high or low ride or force majeure, certain parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as a bus or train. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and we will strive to minimize any disruptions to your experience!
You can choose between three cabin categories: category A, C, or D. By choosing this category C option, you will get a cabin on the middle deck with windows that can open and a French balcony. More information on cabins is found in the Things to know section. Itinerary remains the same.
This bike & boat journey along the Rhône river is a deluxe way of exploring Provence. Over the course of 8 days, we’ll discover medieval villages, lavender fields, quiet roads, endless vineyards, and Provence’s most beautiful spots. Our home for the week will be the modern and luxurious STELLA, a ship boasting countless entertainment and spa possibilities, that will calmly cruise along the Rhone river. All lodgings are included, as well as all meals, guided day tours, a wine tasting, city tours, and much more. Provence will win you over—and it’s going to be really difficult to leave!
At 4pm, your tour guides await your arrival in Lyon, where you will be warmly welcomed on board. After you have settled into your cabin, your guide will give you a briefing of the trip ahead. Weather permitting, the welcome can take place on the sun deck, where you can soak up the sun.
Afterwards, enjoy your first dinner on board as the ship sails north on the calm waters of the Saône. Departure from Lyon is scheduled for 6pm, marking the start of your enchanting journey south. In the evening, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon’s old town on a panoramic cruise and admire the city’s historic landmarks and charming streets in the light of the night sky. A delightful introduction to the rich culture and beauty that awaits you on this unforgettable journey.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Our first cycle tour of this trip takes us along the Rhône from Tain-l’Hermitage to the Roche de Glun island near Valence on the western side of the river and then back on the eastern side. Marvel at the dam with the hydroelectric power station on the Rhône, the 14th century Diane de Poitiers tower and the Marc Seguin footbridge, which was built by Marc Seguin between 1847 and 1849. Join us to taste the famous Valrhona chocolate for which Tain-l’Hermitage is renowned. In the afternoon, enjoy the beauty of the passing landscape from the sun deck as the STELLA gently steers its course south.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Early in the morning, the STELLA docks not far from the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where your bikes will be waiting for us at the dock. We will cycle to the charming village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where we’ll learn about the production of exquisite reds during a wine tasting. After lunch, say goodbye to the world-famous vineyards and cycle through the fertile fruit and vegetable growing area.
On our way back to Avignon, we’ll pass one of the largest islands in the Rhône and cycle to the Avignon Bridge. Admire the iconic Pont d’Avignon, a symbol of the city’s medieval festivals, where exuberant parties once took place! Did you know that the famous song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” should actually be called “Sous le pont d’Avignon”? We’ll learn about the rich history of Avignon with a fascinating city tour. We’ll learn about the gardens of Toompea Hill, once popes’ residence. The ship will remain in Avignon overnight, giving us plenty of time to stroll the narrow streets before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
The ship continued on to Arles overnight and docked at the gates of the old town of Arles in the morning. We’ll get on our e-bikes and drive to the picturesque town of St. Remy de Provence. This picturesque town is where Vincent Van Gogh lived for a time in a private clinic housed in a former monastery. After a delicious lunch in St. Rémy, we will continue our exploration to the monumental art center Carrières de Lumières, located in the heart of the breathtaking Alpilles. Every year, this art center hosts a spectacular exhibition of the works of famous artists from throughout history.
We will then leave the Alpilles on small side routes and drive down into the fertile alluvial plains of the Rhône. We pass charming Provençal villages, meander along fields of wheat and sunflowers, and finally reach Arles. Arles, a Roman royal city, has a magnificent amphitheater in the city center, considered one of the best preserved in France. Even today, bloody bullfights still take place within the historic walls. We can explore the ornate Romanesque portal of the Saint Trophime Cathedral or enjoy an espresso in the famous Café de la Nuit, immortalized by van Gogh.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 65 km / 40 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
After a short transfer, it’s off to the untouched marshlands that border Arles. On the way, we will witness the vast salt hills and fields, which are among the largest in Europe, offering a fascinating panorama. As we go deeper into the nature reserve, our path leads us through flat rice fields. On the shores of the brackish lakes, black storks, grey herons, and bee-eaters grace the landscape, while Egyptian ibises bask in the warm sunlight. The shallow saltwater lakes are home to flamingos, and their pink wings standing out against the azure sky are a sight! If we’re lucky, the legendary white Camargue horses may cross our path!
Along a flat embankment that seems to merge with the sea, we reach Saintes Maries de la Mer. This fortified church is an annual pilgrimage site for gypsies from all over Europe and once inspired Picasso with its rousing flamenco performances. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the crypt and discover the story of the three Marys and their servant Sara. After a lunch break by the sea, a transfer will take us back to the Roman city of Arles, where we will visit the Roman amphitheater of Arles on a guided tour.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 32 km / 20 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
In the morning, we admire the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and “Crozes Hermitages.” A bus takes us to the stunning Ardèche gorge, where our guide shares the history of the UNESCO World Heritage cave systems and their Stone Age settlements. We switch to e-bikes to explore the garrigue landscape, passing lavender fields and holm oak forests until the Ardèche river gorge appears. Carved up to 300 meters deep into the rock, the river has created a majestic landscape of winding cliffs and caves, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the scenic road that traces its edge.
Here, we’ll encounter rock paintings of our ancestors within the caves. We’ll have the opportunity to explore one such cave system! By noon, we’ll have returned to the ship and we can spend the afternoon on the sun deck or in the onboard spa. In the evening, we enjoy a final dinner in the wine bar aboard the STELLA. As we dine, the ship sets sail back to Lyon overnight, concluding our journey through southern France.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 24 miles / 38 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Enjoy a late breakfast and spend the morning on board while the ship gently sails back to Lyon. In the afternoon, we’ll do a city tour of Lyon, often referred to as the gateway to the south and the secret capital of gourmets! Here, the Saône flows into the Rhône and divides the city center into two distinct parts: a lively district with magnificent 19th-century facades and the picturesque old town of St. Jean. In St. Jean, you can discover the Renaissance houses that were once inhabited by wealthy cloth merchants and bankers.
These buildings reveal their true splendor on the inside, with inner courtyards accessible through narrow passageways known as “traboules”. These corridors served as escape routes in times of conflict and reflect Lyon’s rich history, which was characterized by feuds between citizens and bishops as well as Catholics and Protestants. Connoisseurs know that some bourgeois apartments house paintings by famous artists such as Gauguin and Cézanne, which cannot be seen from the outside! Lyon’s superb history has earned the city recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 14 miles / 22 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
As the morning light gently illuminates Lyon, our ship docks once again in this vibrant city. After enjoying a delightful breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to our floating home. Around 9am, disembark from the ship and either head home or stay a bit longer in the area to explore it!
Meals: Breakfast
Please be aware the changes to the itinerary may occur. Factors such as high and low tide, maintenance work, and waiting times and locks and bridges may affect the program. In rare instances of high or low ride or force majeure, certain parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as a bus or train. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and we will strive to minimize any disruptions to your experience!
You can choose between three cabin categories: category A, C, or D. By choosing this category D option, you will get a cabin on the upper deck with windows that can open and a French balcony. More information on cabins is found in the Things to know section. Itinerary remains the same.
This bike & boat journey along the Rhône river is a deluxe way of exploring Provence. Over the course of 8 days, we’ll discover medieval villages, lavender fields, quiet roads, endless vineyards, and Provence’s most beautiful spots. Our home for the week will be the modern and luxurious STELLA, a ship boasting countless entertainment and spa possibilities, that will calmly cruise along the Rhone river. All lodgings are included, as well as all meals, guided day tours, a wine tasting, city tours, and much more. Provence will win you over—and it’s going to be really difficult to leave!
At 4pm, your tour guides await your arrival in Lyon, where you will be warmly welcomed on board. After you have settled into your cabin, your guide will give you a briefing of the trip ahead. Weather permitting, the welcome can take place on the sun deck, where you can soak up the sun.
Afterwards, enjoy your first dinner on board as the ship sails north on the calm waters of the Saône. Departure from Lyon is scheduled for 6pm, marking the start of your enchanting journey south. In the evening, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon’s old town on a panoramic cruise and admire the city’s historic landmarks and charming streets in the light of the night sky. A delightful introduction to the rich culture and beauty that awaits you on this unforgettable journey.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Our first cycle tour of this trip takes us along the Rhône from Tain-l’Hermitage to the Roche de Glun island near Valence on the western side of the river and then back on the eastern side. Marvel at the dam with the hydroelectric power station on the Rhône, the 14th century Diane de Poitiers tower and the Marc Seguin footbridge, which was built by Marc Seguin between 1847 and 1849. Join us to taste the famous Valrhona chocolate for which Tain-l’Hermitage is renowned. In the afternoon, enjoy the beauty of the passing landscape from the sun deck as the STELLA gently steers its course south.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Early in the morning, the STELLA docks not far from the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where your bikes will be waiting for us at the dock. We will cycle to the charming village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where we’ll learn about the production of exquisite reds during a wine tasting. After lunch, say goodbye to the world-famous vineyards and cycle through the fertile fruit and vegetable growing area.
On our way back to Avignon, we’ll pass one of the largest islands in the Rhône and cycle to the Avignon Bridge. Admire the iconic Pont d’Avignon, a symbol of the city’s medieval festivals, where exuberant parties once took place! Did you know that the famous song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” should actually be called “Sous le pont d’Avignon”? We’ll learn about the rich history of Avignon with a fascinating city tour. We’ll learn about the gardens of Toompea Hill, once popes’ residence. The ship will remain in Avignon overnight, giving us plenty of time to stroll the narrow streets before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 45 km / 28 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
The ship continued on to Arles overnight and docked at the gates of the old town of Arles in the morning. We’ll get on our e-bikes and drive to the picturesque town of St. Remy de Provence. This picturesque town is where Vincent Van Gogh lived for a time in a private clinic housed in a former monastery. After a delicious lunch in St. Rémy, we will continue our exploration to the monumental art center Carrières de Lumières, located in the heart of the breathtaking Alpilles. Every year, this art center hosts a spectacular exhibition of the works of famous artists from throughout history.
We will then leave the Alpilles on small side routes and drive down into the fertile alluvial plains of the Rhône. We pass charming Provençal villages, meander along fields of wheat and sunflowers, and finally reach Arles. Arles, a Roman royal city, has a magnificent amphitheater in the city center, considered one of the best preserved in France. Even today, bloody bullfights still take place within the historic walls. We can explore the ornate Romanesque portal of the Saint Trophime Cathedral or enjoy an espresso in the famous Café de la Nuit, immortalized by van Gogh.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 65 km / 40 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
After a short transfer, it’s off to the untouched marshlands that border Arles. On the way, we will witness the vast salt hills and fields, which are among the largest in Europe, offering a fascinating panorama. As we go deeper into the nature reserve, our path leads us through flat rice fields. On the shores of the brackish lakes, black storks, grey herons, and bee-eaters grace the landscape, while Egyptian ibises bask in the warm sunlight. The shallow saltwater lakes are home to flamingos, and their pink wings standing out against the azure sky are a sight! If we’re lucky, the legendary white Camargue horses may cross our path!
Along a flat embankment that seems to merge with the sea, we reach Saintes Maries de la Mer. This fortified church is an annual pilgrimage site for gypsies from all over Europe and once inspired Picasso with its rousing flamenco performances. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the crypt and discover the story of the three Marys and their servant Sara. After a lunch break by the sea, a transfer will take us back to the Roman city of Arles, where we will visit the Roman amphitheater of Arles on a guided tour.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 32 km / 20 miles
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
In the morning, we admire the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and “Crozes Hermitages.” A bus takes us to the stunning Ardèche gorge, where our guide shares the history of the UNESCO World Heritage cave systems and their Stone Age settlements. We switch to e-bikes to explore the garrigue landscape, passing lavender fields and holm oak forests until the Ardèche river gorge appears. Carved up to 300 meters deep into the rock, the river has created a majestic landscape of winding cliffs and caves, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the scenic road that traces its edge.
Here, we’ll encounter rock paintings of our ancestors within the caves. We’ll have the opportunity to explore one such cave system! By noon, we’ll have returned to the ship and we can spend the afternoon on the sun deck or in the onboard spa. In the evening, we enjoy a final dinner in the wine bar aboard the STELLA. As we dine, the ship sets sail back to Lyon overnight, concluding our journey through southern France.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 24 miles / 38 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
Enjoy a late breakfast and spend the morning on board while the ship gently sails back to Lyon. In the afternoon, we’ll do a city tour of Lyon, often referred to as the gateway to the south and the secret capital of gourmets! Here, the Saône flows into the Rhône and divides the city center into two distinct parts: a lively district with magnificent 19th-century facades and the picturesque old town of St. Jean. In St. Jean, you can discover the Renaissance houses that were once inhabited by wealthy cloth merchants and bankers.
These buildings reveal their true splendor on the inside, with inner courtyards accessible through narrow passageways known as “traboules”. These corridors served as escape routes in times of conflict and reflect Lyon’s rich history, which was characterized by feuds between citizens and bishops as well as Catholics and Protestants. Connoisseurs know that some bourgeois apartments house paintings by famous artists such as Gauguin and Cézanne, which cannot be seen from the outside! Lyon’s superb history has earned the city recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 14 miles / 22 km
Accommodation: Cabin aboard the STELLA
As the morning light gently illuminates Lyon, our ship docks once again in this vibrant city. After enjoying a delightful breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to our floating home. Around 9am, disembark from the ship and either head home or stay a bit longer in the area to explore it!
Meals: Breakfast
Please be aware the changes to the itinerary may occur. Factors such as high and low tide, maintenance work, and waiting times and locks and bridges may affect the program. In rare instances of high or low ride or force majeure, certain parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as a bus or train. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and we will strive to minimize any disruptions to your experience!
STELLA is a modern river cruise ship with excellent comfort and lots of space. The boat features…
Built in 2005, STELLA can accommodate up to 174 guests, offering them a unique and comprehensive onboard experience.
The ship boasts 86 spacious elegant cabins. There are three categories of cabins, and you can choose the one you prefer. All three cabin types are equally equipped and they have the same layout: they feature modern furnishings and amenities including air conditioning, safe, TV, fly screen, hairdryer, toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, and bathrobe on request. The difference among cabins is the deck and the windows.
The boat offers a fantastic culinary experience! You can expect…
Aboard STELLA, there is a large selection of beauty and body treatments with high quality products. A professionally trained spa and beauty team will pamper you! You have a 15% discount on spa treatments. The boat offers…
The Rhone River bike tour in France was really great. We explored the beautiful countryside along the river by bike and visited many historic towns and charming villages. The guides were knowledgeable and told us a lot about the region. We slept very comfortably on the boat and enjoyed delicious food.
The bike trails were well maintained and the guides were very helpful. The overnight stays on the boat were very comfortable and the food was delicious. I can recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys cycling and wants to discover the beauty of France.
The Rhone River bike tour in France was really great. We explored the beautiful countryside along the river by bike and visited many historic towns and charming villages. The guides were knowledgeable and told us a lot about the region. We slept very comfortably on the boat and enjoyed delicious food.
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
This Rhone bike & boat tour is beginner-friendly, but good fitness is a must. This route takes you through picturesque wine-growing landscapes of the Rhone Valley along the steeply terraced slopes. The total distance covered by e-bike is 300 km (186 miles), with daily rides being between 14-40 miles (22-65 km). Mostly you’ll cycle on rural country roads with light traffic.
Your guides rate this tour as easy to moderate. Although the south of France is very mountainous, the routes are not particularly strenuous as you often start with the e-bike above the river valleys and ride a lot more downhill and uphill. And all gradients are easy to ride with e-bikes. On your premium pedelec equipped with Bosch or Shimano mid-mounted motor, you can decide how much assistance you require!
Non-riders can also join the tour. If that’s the case, non-riders should contact us prior to booking the trip.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
The weather can be capricious. Hot days can be exhausting even with a bike. During the day, the climate is usually pleasantly warm, while in the evening, it can get noticeably cooler. Sometimes there is a strong refreshing wind in the mountains. Occasionally, the warm Scirocco wind comes from North Africa. It blows constantly from the south and sometimes brings moisture with it.
Group sizes and pricing
Rhone bike & boat tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
The starting point of your Lyon tour is Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS), located about 20 miles (32 km) southeast of Lyon city center.
To get to the city center, take the Rhônexpress tram from the St Exupery train station, which runs every 15 minutes and takes around 30 minutes. Full-price tickets are €16.10/€27.80, with discounts available online or for those under 25. Children under 12 travel free. Purchase tickets online, at airport/tram stop machines, or from the on-board conductor (€4 fee). At the Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu, the tram stop is outside the station. But be aware: there are two exits. Follow the signs inside for the Rhônexpress (Porte Alpes) and it will be on your right as you exit. If you find yourself by the metro station, then you need to be on the other side.
Alternatively, private transfer can be arranged from the airport to the boat.
Please book your flight to arrive at Lyon Airport by 3 pm at the latest to ensure you reach the meeting point on board the ship by 5 pm and can join the panorama tour.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance.
With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.
If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
To secure your spot, a deposit in the amount of 30% is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid 120 calendar days prior to the trip departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you’ll be the first one to know. Pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know once the dates are live—don’t risk missing out on your bucket list adventure!
Cancellations
Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.
The bike trails were well maintained and the guides were very helpful. The overnight stays on the boat were very comfortable and the food was delicious. I can recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys cycling and wants to discover the beauty of France.