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Join the legendary Raymond Blanc on a gourmet trip to France this summer

Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

With its sunflowers and lavender in full bloom, July is one of the best times to visit southern France. That's exactly why we're planning a gourmet cruise to the region with celebrated chef Raymond Blanc this summer - and you're invited to join us!

JOIN US IN JULY

From rich Burgundy wines and fine cheeses to zesty rosé from Provence, the region is one of Europe’s ultimate destinations for food and wine lovers.

On Red's all-inclusive Rhone cruise, you’ll be joined by legendary Frenchman Raymond Blanc whose Le Manoir restaurant has spawned talented chefs, including Marco Pierre White, Heston Blumenthal and Michael Caines.

"French life revolves around mealtimes and my family was no exception," says Raymond.

"For my mother, cooking was an act of love. At an early age, I was taught to love and respect food."

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You’ll get to see that love on display as you take part in an interactive cookery demonstration with Raymond, ask him your questions during a Q&A session and book signing, and enjoy a dinner with a menu that he will choose himself.

During the eight-day cruise, you'll set sail from Lyon and travel on the Rhone River, stopping at Macon, Vienne, Avignon, Viviers and Tarascon to explore and feast on the region’s best cuisine.

Photo credit: Julian Elliott Ethereal Light
Photo credit: Julian Elliott Ethereal Light

You’ll also tour Roman monuments, visit vineyards and enjoy all-inclusive food and wine in the ship’s restaurant.

Highlights of the unmissable trip

Meeting Raymond Blanc

You’ll meet the chef and take part in exclusive events with him. You'll join Raymond for a book signing and Q&A session while you enjoy a cocktail, before seeing him on board the next day during an interactive cooking demonstration, which will include the chance to taste his creations. That evening, you’ll feast on a menu of regional delicacies, as chosen by Raymond.

Discovering the Rhone

The Rhone valley is the jewel in France’s culinary crown, and you’ll get the chance to sample its produce.

One highlight will be meeting a trained truffle-snuffling dog and tasting what it finds, which is exclusive to this bespoke itinerary.

Cruising in style

Scenic Sapphire is an all-suite Space-Ship, with all-inclusive food and drink included in the price you pay. It boasts fine restaurants, an elegant bar, salt therapy lounge, fitness facilities, and a sundeck with a vitality pool. You can learn how to make local recipes from expert chefs at the on-board cooking school, Scenic Culinaire.

Excursions galore

Choose from a range of Scenic Freechoice excursions, such as visiting vineyards and an olive farm, shopping with a chef then cooking your purchases.

Photo credit: Bborriss - Getty Images
Photo credit: Bborriss - Getty Images

After the doors close to the public at Avignon’s Palais des Papes, you’ll be invited for an exclusive Scenic Enrich concert inside the palace.

What's included?

  • See Raymond Blanc in action during an exclusive cooking demonstration, with tasters

  • A free copy of Raymond’s latest cookbook, which he’ll sign (one per suite)

  • Seven nights in luxury in a five-star Scenic Sapphire suite

  • All-inclusive food, premium beverages, a mini bar and more

  • Meet a truffle farmer and learn the tricks of truffle farming - exclusive to this sailing

  • Tours of Lyon, Avignon, Viviers and Macon

  • Dine on a menu chosen by Raymond for a special dinner

  • Access to an on-board vitality pool and wellness area

  • 16 Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from and one exclusive Scenic Enrich event, including a classical concert and Beaujolais wine tasting

  • Return flights from up to 16 UK airports (Eurostar option available), taxes and transfers, plus all tips and gratuities, butler service, e-bikes and wifi

Want to explore France's breathtaking Rhone region with Raymond Blanc? Visit our holiday website for all the details about Red's July river cruise and information on how to book.

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