Join a small group of like-minded women for an unforgettable journey that begins with three wonderful nights in vibrant Barcelona before cruising through the heart of Provence aboard your 4-star AmaWaterways river ship.
Created as a unique collaboration between AmaWaterways and Travel With Lesley Whyte, this inaugural women-only cruise has been carefully designed to deliver an extraordinary travel experience that goes beyond a traditional river cruise. Combining exceptional destinations, immersive cultural experiences and the camaraderie that comes from travelling with adventurous women, this journey promises lasting memories and meaningful connections.
To make this experience even more special, Cindy Bakewell will accompany, as outlined, the group throughout, creating a warm, welcoming and personalised atmosphere from beginning to end. This boutique experience ensures a high level of personal service from the moment you book. Whether travelling independently or with friends, you’ll enjoy the reassurance of having a dedicated host while forming new friendships and sharing unforgettable moments along the way.
Explore the vibrant streets of Barcelona, discover the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí, wander the historic Gothic Quarter and experience the breathtaking beauty of Montserrat before travelling by high-speed rail to France to embark on your Rhône River cruise.
Designed exclusively for women, this special hosted departure combines beautiful scenery, world-renowned wines, charming medieval villages, exceptional cuisine and authentic cultural experiences in a welcoming and social atmosphere. From the artistic streets of Arles that inspired Vincent van Gogh to the medieval grandeur of Avignon and the gastronomic delights of Lyon, every day offers a wonderful balance of guided sightseeing, immersive local experiences, active excursions and relaxed time onboard with your fellow travellers.
Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of a women-only departure, outstanding AmaWaterways hospitality, exceptional French food and wine, and the opportunity to create lasting memories and friendships while discovering some of the most beautiful regions of Spain and France.
Day 1 – Monday, 16 August 2027
Welcome to Barcelona
Your journey begins in the vibrant and captivating city of Barcelona.
Upon arrival, transfer to your centrally located hotel and settle into the heart of Catalonia. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, explore at leisure, or simply soak up the atmosphere of one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
Guests travelling on the same flights as Cindy will enjoy included airport-to-hotel transfers. Throughout your Barcelona stay, you will be accompanied by both your dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Director and your host Cindy Bakewell, providing a seamless and welcoming start to your adventure.
Included Experiences
- Airport to hotel transfer (when travelling on the same flights as your host Cindy Bakewell)
- Hotel accommodation in Barcelona
- Meet your AmaWaterways Cruise Director
- Meet your host Cindy BAkewell
- Time to explore Barcelona at leisure
Day 2 – Tuesday, 17 August 2027
Barcelona – Gothic Streets & Gaudí’s Masterpieces
Today discover why Barcelona is regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities.
Explore the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, stroll along the famous Las Ramblas and admire the architectural genius of Antoni Gaudí, including the magnificent Sagrada Familia and other iconic landmarks that have shaped the city’s unique character.
Included Experiences
- Hotel Breakfast
- “Best of Barcelona” guided sightseeing tour
- Gothic Quarter
- Las Ramblas
- Sagrada Familia
- Gaudí architectural highlights
Day 3 – Wednesday, 18 August 2027
Montserrat – The Mountains & Abbey
Journey into the spectacular mountains of Catalonia to visit Montserrat, one of Spain’s most important spiritual and cultural landmarks.
Ride the funicular railway for breathtaking views before visiting the Benedictine Abbey, home to the revered Black Madonna. Combining stunning scenery, history and spirituality, Montserrat is one of the highlights of any visit to Catalonia.
Included Experiences
- Hotel Breakfast
- Montserrat excursion
- Funicular railway ride
- Benedictine Monastery
- Black Madonna
- Panoramic mountain views
Day 4 – Thursday, 19 August 2027
Barcelona to Arles – Embarkation Day
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel by high-speed rail through the beautiful landscapes of Spain and southern France.
Arrive in Nîmes before transferring to Arles where your AmaWaterways river ship awaits. After settling into your stateroom, join the Welcome Aboard Cocktail Hour and enjoy the opportunity to meet more of your fellow travellers, share travel stories and begin forming new friendships as your Colours of Provence journey officially begins.
Included Experiences
- Hotel Breakfast
- Hotel Check-out
- High-speed train from Barcelona to Nîmes
- Transfer to Arles
- Embarkation aboard AmaWaterways
- Welcome Aboard Cocktail Hour
- Regional Wine Tasting
- Pink French Cocktail Demonstration during Sip & Sail
Day 5 – Friday, 20 August 2027
Arles
Today we explore the captivating city of Arles, one of Provence’s most historic and artistic destinations. Once an important Roman settlement, Arles is filled with ancient monuments, charming streets and colourful cafés.
The city is perhaps best known as the place where Vincent van Gogh created many of his most famous works. Discover the locations that inspired the artist and immerse yourself in the atmosphere that continues to attract creatives from around the world.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Arles Walking Tour
- Van Gogh Walking Tour
- Arles Bike Tour
- Les Baux & Carrières de Lumières
- Les Baux & Olive Farm Excursion
Special Onboard Experience
- Lavender Gin Tasting during Sip & Sail
Day 6 – Saturday, 21 August 2027
Avignon
Arrive in the magnificent walled city of Avignon, once home to the Popes and one of the most important religious centres in Europe.
Explore the imposing Papal Palace, stroll through charming medieval streets and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed city. Wine lovers will enjoy the opportunity to visit nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape, one of France’s most celebrated wine-producing regions.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Walking Tour & Papal Palace
- Tastes of Avignon Culinary Tour
- Avignon Bike Tour
- Pont du Gard Excursion
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tasting
Day 7 – Sunday, 22 August 2027
Viviers
The charming riverside town of Viviers offers a glimpse into authentic French village life. Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and admire the town’s remarkable medieval heritage.
Today also offers the chance to discover one of Provence’s culinary treasures—truffles—and explore the beautiful village of Grignan, renowned for its elegant château and rich cultural history.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Viviers Walking Tour
- Truffle Farm Visit
- Viviers Active Walking Tour
- Viviers Bike Tour
- Grignan Château Visit (limited capacity)
Day 8 – Monday, 23 August 2027
Tournon
Today we venture into the heart of the Rhône Valley wine region. Discover the celebrated vineyards surrounding Tain l’Hermitage and experience the traditions, flavours and stories that have shaped this renowned wine-producing area for centuries.
For those seeking something different, a scenic journey aboard a historic steam train offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Red Wine & Chocolate Pairing Experience
- Historic Steam Train Journey (limited capacity)
- Tain l’Hermitage Hike & Wine Tasting
- Gael Wine Game Experience
Special Onboard Event
- Whispering Angel Rosé Sundeck Party
Day 9 – Tuesday, 24 August 2027
Vienne
Explore one of France’s best-preserved Roman cities. Vienne boasts an impressive collection of ancient monuments, elegant architecture and fascinating history dating back over 2,000 years.
Enjoy time to wander the city’s atmospheric streets, discover local cafés and soak up the ambience of this beautiful Rhône Valley destination.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Vienne Walking Tour
- Vienne Hiking Experience
Day 10 – Wednesday, 25 August 2027
Lyon
Our final full day is spent in Lyon, often regarded as the culinary capital of France.
This vibrant city is famous for its exceptional food culture, bustling markets, beautiful architecture and proximity to the celebrated Beaujolais wine region. Explore Lyon’s fascinating old town, sample local delicacies and enjoy a memorable farewell day with your fellow travellers.
Special Morning Experience
- Miraval Champagne Breakfast in Bathrobes (includes one glass) – Who doesn’t love a Champagne breakfast? What a wonderful way to celebrate the final full day of your cruise. Relax in your bathrobe, raise a glass of Miraval Champagne and toast to the incredible friendships, unforgettable experiences and beautiful memories created during your women-only journey through Provence and the Rhône Valley.
Choice of Included Excursions
- Lyon City Tour
- Les Halles Market Tour
- Lyon Bike Tour
- Beaujolais Wine Excursion & Tasting
Day 11 – Thursday, 26 August 2027
Lyon – Disembarkation
Following breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your beautiful river ship and the enchanting landscapes of Provence.
Disembark in Lyon and continue your onward journey, taking with you wonderful memories, new friendships, exceptional food and wine experiences, and the magic of southern France.
Guests travelling on the same flights as host Cindy Bakewell, will enjoy included transfers from the ship to Lyon Airport, providing a seamless conclusion to this wonderful journey.
Included
- Breakfast onboard
- Disembarkation in Lyon
- Airport transfer (for guests travelling on the same flight as host Cindy Bakewell)
