River cruisers that are passionate about the culinary delights of Europe are sure to find plenty to enjoy with Tauck’s newly announced 10-day Taste of France itinerary, operated aboard the elegant MS Swiss Emerald.

Tauck's Swiss Emerald sails the spectacular new Taste of France itinerary. Photo courtesy of Tauck.

Designed to celebrate the rich cultural traditions of France, this amazing journey down the Rhone River was created by Tauck in conjunction with luxury travel agency Churchill & Turen, named “World’s Best Culinary Tour Specialist” by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. This exciting trip begins with a two-night stay in the City of Love: Paris, France. Following a culinary exploration of this world-class locale, guests are treated on a seven-night river cruise along the increasingly popular Rhone aboard the elegantly appointed MS Swiss Emerald.

“The foods and wines of France are world renowned, and our new river cruise is a fantastic introduction to what makes France such a culinary treasure,” says Tauck CEO Dan Mahar. “We’ve combined our 87 years of experience showcasing the world’s premier destinations with the insights and access of Churchill & Turen, all with the ease and elegance of river cruising.”

Starting in Paris at the Hilton Arc de Triomphe, enjoy an exclusive hands-on introduction to French sauces with a tasting at the Alain Ducasse culinary school, Ecole de Cuisine. Then, let your senses guide you as you take a workshop and blind tasting highlighting “The Joy of Chocolate” by The Chocolate Conniosseur author Chloe Doutre-Roussel.

Other culinary-themed experiences offered on this ten-day itinerary include:

• A market visit in Provence with local chefs who will buy ingredients and prepare regional specialties for tasting, such as tapenade, anchoiade and stuffed tomatoes Provencale.
• A visit to Lyon’s famous market, Les Halles, with tastings of local meats and cheeses.
• A memorable Provencal evening featuring dinner, local wines and entertainment in the shadow of Pont du Gard, the incredible Roman aqueduct.
• A wine tasting in Beaujolais.
• A demonstration of French culinary techniques at a cooking school operated by a three-star Michelin chef.

The elegant Main Lounge aboard Swiss Emerald comes alive at night. Photo courtesy of Tauck.

Aboard Tauck’s elegant Swiss Emerald, guests are treated to a variety of complimentary features designed to ensure their vacations remain relaxed, serene and enriching. Cruise fares include all sightseeing, activities, shore excursions, gratuities, complimentary wine with onboard meals, and two night’s hotel accommodations in Paris, as well as all port charges, airport transfers and luggage handling. And with just 118 guests onboard, Tauck’s ships carry even fewer passengers than competing lines operating ships of the same size, ensuring your personal space is never encroached on.

Departure dates for this new Taste of France itinerary are available on April 25, June 28, August 17, and October 20, 2012.

Curious about Tauck’s new 10-night Taste of France itinerary along the Rhone? Have a peek at our complete Tauck profile and our Swiss Emerald overview to learn more!