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Barcelona, Provence & Beyond – A Women-Only River Cruise

Barcelona, Provence & the Rhône – An Exclusive Women-Only Journey

16 – 26 August 2027

Overview

Join Travel With Lesley Whyte and AmaWaterways for an extraordinary women-only journey combining the vibrant culture of Barcelona with the timeless beauty, food, wine and charm of southern France.

Your adventure begins with an exclusive 3-night stay in Barcelona, where you’ll be welcomed by both your dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Manager and Cindy Bakewell, your Travel With Lesley Whyte host.  Explore the captivating Gothic Quarter, marvel at Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces including the iconic Sagrada Familia, and experience the breathtaking beauty and spirituality of Montserrat before travelling by high-speed rail to France.

From Barcelona, step aboard your 4-star AmaWaterways river ship and cruise through the heart of Provence and the Rhône Valley on a journey designed exclusively for women who love meaningful travel, authentic cultural experiences and the joy of discovering new destinations alongside like-minded travellers.

This special hosted departure offers the perfect blend of elegance, exploration and connection. Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, you’ll be welcomed into a warm and inclusive environment where friendships form naturally, conversations flow easily and every detail has been thoughtfully arranged.

Along the way you’ll discover the Roman treasures of Arles, the medieval splendour of Avignon, the charming villages of Provence, the celebrated vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Beaujolais, and the culinary delights of Lyon — often regarded as the gastronomic capital of France. Each day presents a choice of immersive excursions, allowing you to explore at your own pace through guided walks, cycling adventures, wine tastings, culinary experiences and cultural discoveries.

Life onboard is equally memorable. Relax in elegant surroundings while enjoying AmaWaterways’ award-winning service, exceptional cuisine, regional wines and carefully curated experiences. Share a lavender gin tasting during Sip & Sail, enjoy a Whispering Angel Rosé party on the Sun Deck, savour a Miraval Champagne Breakfast and experience some of the finest food and wine France has to offer.

One of the greatest attractions of this departure is that every guest onboard is a woman. This creates a uniquely welcoming atmosphere for solo travellers, friends travelling together and women seeking a supportive and social travel experience. There are no designated women’s groups within a larger departure — this entire hosted journey has been created exclusively for women who share a passion for travel, culture, friendship and adventure.

From the colourful streets of Barcelona to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence and the culinary delights of Lyon, this promises to be a journey filled with unforgettable experiences, wonderful companionship and memories that will last a lifetime.

Cruise Highlights

  • Exclusive Women-Only Departure
  • 3-Night Barcelona Pre-Cruise Stay
  • Hosted by an AmaWaterways Cruise Manager and our Travel With Lesley Whyte host
  • High-Speed Rail Journey from Barcelona to France
  • Luxury Rhône River Cruise Through Provence
  • Solo Traveller Friendly Environment
  • Every Guest Onboard is a Woman
  • Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne and Lyon
  • Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Experience
  • Beaujolais Wine Excursion & Tasting
  • Lavender Gin Tasting
  • Whispering Angel Rosé Sundeck Party
  • Miraval Champagne Breakfast Experience
  • Truffle Farm Visit
  • Van Gogh Heritage Experiences in Arles
  • Choice of Cultural, Culinary, Active and Cycling Excursions
  • Exceptional French Cuisine and Regional Wines
  • AmaWaterways Award-Winning Service and Hospitality
  • Small Group Camaraderie, Friendship and Connection
  • August 16, 2027 - August 26, 2027
  • From NZD $13,410
  • Guaranteed departure
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Barcelona, Provence & Beyond – A Women-Only River Cruise hosted by AmaWaterways & Travel With Lesley Whyte

 

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, your Travel With Lesley Whyte host, Cindy Bakewell will accompany, as outlined, the group throughout, creating a warm, welcoming and personalised atmosphere from beginning to end. Available exclusively to guests who book directly with Travel With Lesley Whyte or The Private Travel Company, 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 our Travel With Lesley Whyte host will enjoy included airport-to-hotel transfers. Throughout your Barcelona stay, you will be accompanied by both your dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Director and your Travel With Lesley Whyte host, providing a seamless and welcoming start to your adventure.

Included Experiences

  • Airport to hotel transfer (when travelling on the same flights as the Travel With Lesley Whyte host)
  • Hotel accommodation in Barcelona
  • Meet your AmaWaterways Cruise Director
  • Meet your Travel With Lesley Whyte host
  • 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 the Travel With Lesley Whytehost 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 the Travel With Lesley Whyte host)

Accommodation

Your Colours of Provence Women-Only Cruise package includes three nights’ accommodation in Barcelona prior to embarkation and seven nights aboard your luxurious AmaWaterways river ship as you cruise through the beautiful Rhône Valley and Provence.

Your Barcelona stay has been carefully designed to enhance your European experience, allowing time to immerse yourself in the culture, architecture and atmosphere of one of Spain’s most captivating cities before beginning your river cruise. Accommodation is provided in a premium 4 or 5-star hotel, selected for its comfort, quality and convenient location.

The cruise portion of your journey is based on your selected cabin category and deck location. A range of stateroom and suite options are available, allowing you to choose the accommodation that best suits your travel style and budget.

AmaWaterways is renowned for its beautifully appointed staterooms, elegant public spaces, exceptional dining and outstanding service. Whether you select a comfortable stateroom or a premium balcony suite, you’ll enjoy thoughtfully designed accommodations featuring luxurious bedding, modern amenities, spacious bathrooms and stunning views of the picturesque French countryside.

From your Barcelona hotel stay through to your final morning in Lyon, every aspect of your accommodation experience has been carefully selected to ensure comfort, relaxation and a seamless journey.

Accommodation Includes

  • Three nights accommodation in Barcelona
  • Seven nights aboard your selected AmaWaterways luxury river ship
  • Daily breakfast during your Barcelona stay
  • All onboard meals during the cruise
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard (subject to availability)
  • Access to onboard facilities and entertainment
  • Porterage between hotel, train and ship
  • Services of your AmaWaterways Cruise Manager and Travel With Lesley Whyte host throughout the journey

 

Solo Travellers Welcome

This special women-only departure is exceptionally solo traveller friendly. Solo travellers may select from available cabin categories and will enjoy the same welcoming atmosphere, hosted experiences and opportunities to connect with like-minded women throughout the journey.

Cabins and pricing are subject to availability at the time of booking.

What’s Included

  • The services of your dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Manager and Cindy Bakewell your Travel With Lesley Whyte host throughout your Barcelona stay and Colours of Provence river cruise.
  • Exclusive Travel With Lesley Whyte welcome gift
  • Airport-to-hotel transfer in Barcelona and ship to airport transfer in Lyon when travelling on the same flights as the Travel With Lesley Whyte host – please contact our travel advisor Kerry kerry@privatetravel.co.nz to arrange these flights.

 

Barcelona Pre-Cruise Stay Inclusions

Your 3-night Barcelona pre-cruise experience includes:

  • Three nights’ accommodation in a premium 4 or 5-star Barcelona hotel
  •  Daily breakfast throughout your Barcelona stay
  • Guided sightseeing and excursions, including Barcelona highlights and Montserrat
  • High-speed rail journey from Barcelona to Nîmes
  • Transfer from Nîmes to Arles for embarkation
  • Complimentary luggage handling and porterage between your hotel and river ship
  • Airport-to-hotel transfer in Barcelona when travelling on the same flights as the Travel With Lesley Whyte host

 

Cruise Inclusions

  • 7-night luxury Rhône River Cruise aboard AmaWaterways
  • All onboard accommodation as specified
  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard the cruise
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard
  • Sip & Sail cocktail hour
  • Choice of included shore excursions throughout the cruise
  • Guided walking tours, culinary experiences and active excursions
  • Airport transfer on departure day
  • Services of your Travel With Lesley Whyte host throughout the journey
  • Port charges and government taxes (subject to change)

What’s Not Included

  • International airfares to Barcelona
  • International airfares departing France
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Passport and visa costs (if applicable)
  • Airport to hotel and ship to airport transfers unless travelling on the same flights as the Travel with Lesley Whyte host
  • Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary
  • Premium alcoholic beverages not included by AmaWaterways
  • Optional shore excursions not included in the cruise programme
  • Personal expenses including laundry, telephone calls and souvenirs
  • Gratuities for cruise staff, local guides and drivers (unless otherwise specified)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Items of a personal nature

 

Important Information

This inaugural women-only cruise is a unique collaboration between Travel With Lesley Whyte, AmaWaterways and The Private Travel Company, bringing together boutique hosting, exceptional river cruising and personalised service to create an unforgettable journey through Barcelona, Provence and the Rhône Valley.

Places are limited and bookings will be confirmed upon receipt of the required non-refundable deposit and a copy of your passport.

As this is an international journey, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect your travel investment and provide peace of mind throughout your travels.

Pricing & Payment Information

To secure your place on this exclusive Travel With Lesley Whyte & AmaWaterways Barcelona, Provence & Beyond – A Women-Only River Cruise, a non-refundable deposit per person, as outlined below, based your cabin preference.Your booking is confirmed once your deposit is received, along with a copy of your passport.

Cabin Type Description  Twin Cabin Per Person Deposit Per Person Twin Cabin Solo Cabin Deposit
French Balcony & Outside Balcony Suite – Violin Deck Enjoy the luxury of extra space in this beautifully appointed suite located on the Violin Deck. Featuring both a French balcony and a private outside balcony, this premium accommodation allows you to fully immerse yourself in the ever-changing scenery of the Rhône River from the comfort of your own suite. Ideal for guests seeking additional space, enhanced comfort and a more luxurious river cruising experience. $20,660 $4,066 $36,765 $5,677
Twin Balcony Cabin – Window & Outside Balcony Enjoy the best of both worlds with a Twin Balcony Cabin, featuring a French balcony and a private outside balcony, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery of Provence and the Rhône Valley throughout your journey. Beautifully designed and thoughtfully appointed, these cabins provide a wonderful balance of space, comfort and style, making them an excellent choice for guests wanting to enhance their river cruise experience while enjoying seamless indoor-outdoor living. $17,660 $3,766 $19,561 $3,956
French Balcony Cabin Enjoy elegant river cruising from the comfort of your French Balcony Cabin. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a French balcony, these beautifully appointed cabins allow you to immerse yourself in the ever-changing scenery of Provence and the Rhône Valley from the privacy of your own room. Stylishly designed with thoughtful amenities and contemporary furnishings, this cabin category is ideal for guests seeking a wonderful balance of comfort, space and panoramic river views throughout their journey. $15,760 $3,576 $17,471 $3,747
Window Cabin This is a slightly smaller cabin featuring a fixed window and is ideal for guests who plan to spend most of their time ashore exploring the beautiful destinations or enjoying the ship’s many onboard facilities and panoramic viewing areas. It is a popular choice for solo travellers and also suits two guests travelling together who wish to take advantage of the attractive twin-share pricing. $13,410 $3,341 $14,886 $3,489

The balance is due 120 days prior to departure

Due to the limited availability of cabins allocated to this special women-only departure, we strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Questions or to book contact Lesley lesley@travelwithlesleywhyte.com

August 16, 2027 - August 26, 2027

Meet your Travel With Lesley Whyte host – introducing Cindy Bakewell.

We are incredibly excited that Cindy will be joining this inaugural women-only experience as the dedicated host for guests who book through The Private Travel Company or Travel With Lesley Whyte.

With decades of travel industry experience and a passion for creating meaningful travel experiences, Cindy brings a warm, welcoming and personalised touch to this special journey. Her love of fine food, wine, authentic cultural experiences and bringing women together perfectly complements the spirit of this women-only cruise through France.

Throughout the journey, Cindy will be on hand to ensure our guests feel supported, connected and truly part of a boutique travel experience. Whether you’re travelling independently or with friends, her approachable nature and attention to detail will help foster new friendships and create memorable shared experiences. This is far more than a river cruise – it’s an opportunity to explore France alongside like-minded women while enjoying the added benefit of dedicated hosting from beginning to end.

This hosted experience is exclusive to guests who book directly through Travel With Lesley Whyte or The Private Travel Company.

Your cruise begins in Arles, your journey follows the Rhône River through the heart of Provence, visiting Avignon, Viviers, Tournon and Vienne before concluding in Lyon, with each destination offering its own unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, wine and unforgettable French charm.

Book now