Washington and Lee University
Since our first visit to Burgundy region of France, we've long anticipated a return to the scenic Saône and Rhône rivers. In “Flavors of Burgundy and Provence,” we’ll come to know the loveliness of France’s most fabled destinations: Paris, one of the world’s most sophisticated cities, and the regions of Burgundy and Provence, home to artists, poets, vintners, and gastronomes. For this 12-day tour, we’ve chosen a fine Paris hotel and the most elegant river vessel on the Rhone, the Avalon Scenery.
Following two nights in Paris, “the City of Light,” we’ll drive through the countryside to Beaune in the heart of the Burgundy wine region. Once aboard the Avalon Scenery in Chalon-sur-Saône, we’ll begin our immersion into the history and culture of central and southern France with visits to Tournus, Mâcon, and Lyon. We’ll explore the twin cities of Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage plus Viviers and Avignon before disembarking in Arles, the capital of the Provence region. Our itinerary also includes the famous Roman architecture of Nimes as well as Nice on the French Riviera. “Flavors of Burgundy and Provence” offers an optional extension to Provence, including visits to Aigues-Mortes and Aix-en Provence, one of France’s most elegant cities, where we’ll enjoy Cours Mirabeau, colorful squares, and famous cafés and fountains as we explore the city of Cezanne. One of the most pleasant features of the tour is our home on the rivers. The Avalon Scenery, launching this spring, will be one the newest ships on the European waterways. This beautiful vessel offers elegant dining with complimentary local wines, a true highlight on this voyage through France’s wine regions. Most staterooms have floor to ceiling sliding glass doors for fresh air and lovely views of the passing countryside. An experienced crew is dedicated to providing the best in passenger service. Early booking will help you avoid disappointment—this trip is bound to be very popular.
Download the complete itinerary and registration form (.pdf)
A W&L alumnus and distinguished scholar of democratic theory and public policy, Ken Ruscio became the 26th president of Washington and Lee University on July 1, 2006. Ken earned his B.A. in politics from W&L in 1976, and a Ph.D. in public affairs and public administration from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Ken held both faculty and staff positions at W&L from 1987 to 2002, including professor of politics, associate dean of The Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics, and dean of freshmen. He is the author of The Leadership Dilemma in Modern Democracy (2004).
