Starting in Paris and travelling through the Normandy countryside along a section of the 777km long river Seine, this voyage through history will explore the opulence of Versailles, the fascinating past of Rouen and the battles towards the end of WWII with visits to the D-Day landing beaches.
In the small village of La Roche-Guyon marvel at the sweeping views from the hilltop setting of the fortified chateau; used by successive lords since the Middle Ages and serving as Rommel's headquarters during WWII. Appreciate the beauty of Impressionist painter Claude Monet's romantic gardens and house in the charming village of Giverny. Discover the history of the D-Day landings on a visit to the beaches on the Normandy coast and the American Cemetery with a moving, private ceremony at Omaha Beach.
Stroll through the Calvados countryside to where the river meets the English Channel and explore the seaside town of Honfleur, its old harbour immortalised by generations of artists, or play golf on the windy cliffs of Etretat. In Normandy's medieval capital Rouen follow in the footsteps of Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, Claude Monet and Richard the Lionheart. Learn about intrigue and plots at the royal court of Versailles; tour the extravagant royal apartments, stunning gardens and Marie Antoinette's hamlet of cottages on the royal estate of Trianon.
On return to Paris enjoy a tour of the city highlights by coach, or opt to see the city from the waters, of if you prefer, on a cycle ride along the riverbanks or on a guided meander through the Ile de la Cite neighbourhood and the bohemian Latin Quarter, for centuries home to artists, writers, philosophers and students.
Venture aboard the 128-guest S.S. Joie de Vivre and delight in an eight-day luxury cruise along the Seine River.