Food and wine lovers need vacations too.

A bottle of red wine standing next to a charcuterie board and wooden-handles cheese knives

Back when I was an avid runner, much of my travel centered around the races I ran. Some races were in cities within whatever state I was living in at the time; others were in other U.S. cities.

I did not travel overseas for any marathons or half-marathons, but I eyed them longingly. The thought of undertaking a trip overseas seemed daunting, risky, and outside of my comfort zone.

Fast-forward a few years, and my how things have changed. I am no longer a distance runner. However, I don't think twice about travel now. Foreign countries beckon enticingly. Irresistibly.

Does you passion for food and wine crave nourishment through travel? It can be done, you know. And you don't need to wait for a special event; food and wine are (darn nearly) ubiquitous.

This week we will explore that quintessential food and wine lover's vacation destination, Southern France via an all-inclusive river cruise, with an extensive lineup of included tours highlighting the region's food and wine.

In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as relaxed walking tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. There is always a variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore.

No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.

A food and wine vacation. Southern France, here we come!

Depart the port of Dijon, and enjoy a gourmet dinner on the way to your first stop, Chalon-Sur-Saône.

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-Sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. Stop at a local market to see and sample some of the local fare and enjoy an evening wine tasting.

Alternatively, we'll arrange an excursion in Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate.

Later in the day, sample famous white Mâconnais wines. Or instead, pedal from Chalon-Sur- Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour.

The next day's adventures include a choice of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Macon. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden.

As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall, then join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Macon and enjoy a tasting of Mâconnais wines.

On your fourth day, join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine.

Off the beaten path, venture to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture.

Return to the ship and head to the Sun Deck to enjoy a light lunch and the passing landscapes on the way to Trevoux. Enjoy a tasting of Beaujolais wines while sailing towards your next stop.

Dynamic Lyon is your next discovery, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.”

You’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. and enjoy a guided walking tour around the city, or go off on your own.

If you wish to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet.

Take your coffee on your balcony or the Sun Deck as you cruise to Viviers, a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th and 18th century monuments. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle-friendly city.

Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. Or, go on a scenic hike and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers.

Later, stroll through the city accompanied by a guide in Renaissance attire as former “residents” in period costumes reenact events and legends of centuries gone by during an evening ghost walk. This special historical tour is sure to bring a smile to your lips – or perhaps send shivers down your spine!

Your last day. Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican.

Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Alternately, you can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. Or, visit a winery for a tasting in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century.

The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods.

Following your tour, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s specialty wines.

Later in the day, rejoin the ship in Arles, considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Your experienced guide will lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater; or you can take the bike tour to the Roman ruins.

Explore Van Gogh’s Arles, on a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy.

You might not be food-centric enough to believe you will enjoy a journey such as this one, but there is also history, culture, cycling through historical and beautiful locations. Food and wine are the bonus; besides, you have to eat anyway, right?

Even if you never leave the ship, you will enjoy gourmet meals daily, wine included. You can't lose.

If not a gastronomic experience, do you have a hobby or interest that you have considered taking a vacation to enjoy? Or maybe you have NOT considered that. Did you even know that might be a possibility?

Well, it is. Let's talk about that. I know we can craft a journey that allows maximum enjoyment and exploration of your favorite pastime or topic. Click the green button, and like the box says, we can