Color and light are the essence of Provence. Brilliant blues of sky and water, fields of lavender, ochre, reds, green, brilliant yellows and everywhere, the light-soft and pale-bright and dazzling that inspired the Impressionist masters who captured the luminous glow of the Provençal landscape. The Muses are still heard where writers and artists are part of a thriving creative community. It is the "art de vivre" that flourishes here, behind medieval walls, in tranquil villages, at the cafés where food and wine are savored. Live in the blissful moment, chatting with friends, watching the light fall on a stone turret, sampling a local C'te du Rhone or breathing in the scents of pine, basil and lavender that infuse this magical land.

The River of Kings, the incredible Loire, flows through this beautiful region that is the essence of France. Burgundy and The Loire Valley offer the rural charm and natural beauty of the French countryside and the opulence and elegance of the 16th century. Great art, gastronomy, history and savoir vivre are everywhere apparent. We walk through vineyards and forests, along riverbanks to magnificent chateaux and country villages, admiring the brilliantly colored Renaissance spires of Burgundy's storybook towns. We stay in superb hotels and savor cuisine as varied as a hearty beef bourguignon and a perfectly prepared langoustine. The names of its most influential wine growing regions Chablis, Montrachet, Sancerre, - roll off the tongue as smoothly as these superb vintages the "nectar of the gods."

Warm and welcoming, Provence opens its arms with rugged natural beauty, bountiful farms, bustling market towns, and larger than life Roman treasures. Exceptional cuisine, fine lodgings, and marvelous shopping possibilities highlight this bike trip.

Throughout France are hundreds of miles of canals and rivers open for navigation. Travel slowly through these hidden waterways that are the key to the backdoor of villages and rural life. Daily excursions are offered as an attentive crew and talented chef cater to your every whim.

More than a delightful destination or a gourmand's dream. The Dordogne region in Southwestern France is a sanctuary where 20,000 years of French history are preserved. We see fossils, artifacts and the renowned cave paintings of primitive wildlife by the Magdalenian peoples who flourished in Europe from 18,000 to 10,000 BC. Medieval castles, Romanesque churches and grand chateaux dot the landscape. A river runs through it the mighty Dordogne flows past dense forests, farmlands and riverbanks bursting with blooms. The beautiful village of La Roque Gageac dates from the Middle Ages. Built into a cliff, its houses are reflected in the clear waters of the river. The region's farms are a cornucopia of fresh fruits and vegetables, rich paté and cheeses spilling from the markets.

From the deck of a luxury hotel barge or the pathways along the Yonne River, the views of this spectacular corner of Burgundy are unsurpassed. We glide over this little-known tributary of the Seine, past wooded hills, farmlands, valleys and vineyards. Medieval towns are much the same as when the Crusaders marched off and Renaissance architecture flourished. We meet farmers and vintners and sample the exquisite wines and rich foie gras produced here. This is walking your way. Walk when you like or stay aboard La Belle Epoque to be pampered by the attentive crew, rest or chat with new found friends.

This is a relaxing taste of the good life, where we'll savor world class wines and richly textured cuisine, while biking in the very heart of France!