Embarking on a Viking Rhone River cruise is like stepping right into a dwelling tapestry of southeastern France. The river weaves via landscapes the place historical past and tradition mix effortlessly, from sunlit vineyards and historical stone villages to bustling markets and grand architectural marvels. Every bend within the river reveals a brand new scene, a special story, inviting you to decelerate and savor the journey. It’s a voyage that connects you not simply to the locations you go to, however to the rhythms of life alongside one in every of Europe’s most enchanting waterways. Come alongside as I share the small print of my journey on this Rhone River Cruise with Viking, from the charming cities and memorable excursions, to the distinctive on-board experiences that made this an unforgettable journey.
Arrival in Marseilles: The Begin of a Journey
Touching down in Marseilles, the gateway to our Viking River cruise on the Rhone, felt like the start of a grand journey. The air was cool and tinged with the scent of the Mediterranean, and the anticipation of the journey forward made each step really feel lighter. My nephew Shane joined me on this journey; though, calling him my nephew doesn’t fairly seize the dynamic—we’re extra like buddies, practically the identical age, with a novel connection. (In the event you’d wish to study extra about our story, try my article on “Six Levels of Sibling Separation.”)
By some stroke of luck, we each arrived on the Marseilles airport inside thirty minutes of one another, regardless of coming from totally different cities on separate flights. We met up close to the luggage declare, exchanged greetings, and inside minutes have been on a shuttle bus heading towards the bustling Marseilles prepare station. For simply €10 every, the 30-minute trip whisked us via elements of the town, hinting on the locations we’d later discover.
Our resort was conveniently situated simply throughout the road from the station, making it straightforward to drop off our baggage and head straight out to find what Marseilles needed to supply. Regardless of a thick overcast sky and occasional drizzle, our spirits weren’t dampened. We wandered right down to the historic port space, the place we marveled on the imposing forts and grand Basilicas that stood watch over the harbor for tons of of years. As a matter of truth, Marseilles is without doubt one of the oldest repeatedly inhabited cities in Europe, relationship again greater than 2500 years. After a day of exploration, and operating on little greater than the joy of the journey, we discovered a comfy spot for dinner and managed to remain awake till 10 PM earlier than lastly succumbing to exhaustion.
The following morning, refreshed and keen, we made our method to the prepare station as soon as once more, this time sure for Avignon. The journey was easy, with the prepare gliding via picturesque countryside, dotted with quaint villages and rolling hills. About an hour and a half later, we stepped off the prepare into a beautiful, sun-drenched day. It was mid-October, however the climate was as welcoming as a heat summer time breeze. Our ship, docked on the banks of the Rhône, was only a kilometer stroll from the town middle—an ideal method to start our journey.
With Google Maps guiding our method via the medieval streets, we strolled previous bustling cafés, charming outlets, and glimpses of historical past round each nook. Fortuitously, I had a WiFi DASH system, a lifesaver that allowed us to remain related with out worrying about discovering an area SIM for our telephones. [This slick (and small) device is a personal WiFi that you can use anywhere in the world for just $10/day and you can hook up multiple devices at once. It comes with unlimited data and they ship it to you via FedEx with a return mailing label.] After a fast on board check-in, we settled into our room, had lunch, and wasted no time heading again out to discover Avignon.
One of the crucial memorable stops was the grand Pope’s Palace, a medieval architectural marvel that stands as a testomony to Avignon’s wealthy historical past. Under the palace, an Italian market had sprung to life, filling the sq. with the aromas of cured meats, cheeses, and freshly baked bread. We sampled the native fare, loved a glass of wine, and soaked within the vigorous ambiance, all whereas dwell music performed within the background.
That night, we returned to the ship for a pleasant dinner, the place we started to fulfill a few of our fellow vacationers. Afterward, the leisure for the evening—a spirited efficiency by a Gypsy Kings cowl band—set the right tone for the beginning of our week-long cruise up the Rhône River towards Lyon.
Immersive Artwork and Timeless Appeal: A Day in Arles and Les Baux on this Rhone River Cruise
Our first full day on the Viking River cruise took us down the Rhône to the city of Arles, a spot the place historical past appears to linger round each nook. Recognized for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater and ties to Vincent van Gogh, Arles looks like a stroll via time. As we strolled via its winding, cobbled streets on a guided tour, it wasn’t exhausting to think about why the good painter selected this city as his muse. The pastel-colored buildings, vibrant shutters, and bustling squares, all bathed within the golden morning mild, created a picture-perfect scene at each flip.
Our information led us previous historical Roman ruins, together with the spectacular amphitheater, which nonetheless hosts occasions at the moment, and the beautiful Romanesque structure of the Church of St. Trophime. We additionally handed by the well-known yellow café immortalized in Van Gogh’s “Café Terrace at Night time,” which nonetheless attracts guests wanting to step right into a scene straight out of a portray. The tour was a mild introduction to the city’s fascinating mix of Roman historical past and inventive heritage, and it left us with a newfound appreciation for this quaint Provençal gem.
Within the afternoon, we opted for an tour to Les Baux-de-Provence, a village perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the Alpilles mountains. The journey there was a scenic drive, winding via olive groves and vineyards, because the panorama shifted to disclose the rugged great thing about Provence. Our vacation spot, Carrières de Lumières, was in contrast to something we had ever skilled. What was as soon as an enormous sandstone quarry has been remodeled into a unprecedented artwork area, the place photos and video are projected onto the towering partitions, ground, and even ceiling, making a mesmerizing, 360-degree visible spectacle.
The present that day was a kaleidoscope of colour and sound, with works of well-known artists coming to life round us. The quarry’s tough, stone surfaces gave depth and texture to the projections, turning static photos into one thing dynamic and ethereal. Because the music swelled, your complete area appeared to breathe, pulling us right into a world of swirling colours and light-weight. It was as if we have been inside a transferring portray, and for an hour, time stood nonetheless as we wandered via this immersive, otherworldly surroundings. Phrases can hardly do it justice—it’s a spot that should be skilled to be actually understood.
After leaving Carrières de Lumières, we took a leisurely stroll via the medieval village of Les Baux. With its slim, winding lanes, stone homes, and panoramic views over the Provençal panorama, it was like stepping right into a fairy-tale. The village appeared nearly frozen in time, and but it was alive with small boutiques, artisan outlets, and welcoming cafés. We browsed via the shops, selecting up some native lavender-scented soaps and handmade ceramics earlier than stopping at a quaint café to take pleasure in an espresso, taking within the view because the solar dipped decrease within the sky.
Because the day drew to a detailed, we returned to our ship, the place a incredible dinner awaited us. The night’s leisure was vigorous and interesting, setting the right finish to a day that had been as enchanting because it was unforgettable. From the traditional streets of Arles to the immersive artistry of Carrières de Lumières, our journey alongside the Rhône was already proving to be an journey for the senses.
Canoeing Via the Mist and Marveling at Roman Engineering
Day three introduced us again to the acquainted port of Avignon, however this time, we skilled the Rhône from a special perspective by canoeing down river. The morning greeted us with dense fog, reworking the river right into a quiet, mysterious panorama. As we paddled down the swift present, the mist obscured the shores, creating an nearly ethereal ambiance the place shapes and shadows blurred on the edges. Regardless of the restricted visibility, the journey was serene, the rhythmic splash of our paddles breaking the stillness round us.
The current rains had raised the water ranges, giving the river a brisk tempo that made our canoeing journey faster than anticipated. It wasn’t lengthy earlier than we discovered ourselves approaching the enduring St. Bénézet Bridge, its historical stone arches looming out of the fog like a relic from one other period. Recognized for spanning solely partway throughout the Rhône, the bridge is a testomony to medieval ingenuity and is the oldest bridge on the river between Lyon and the Mediterranean. Passing beneath one in every of its grand arches, shrouded in mist, felt like gliding right into a scene from a dream—a second suspended in time.
After returning to the ship and drying off, we set off on a day tour to one of many nice engineering marvels of the traditional world: the Pont du Gard. This Roman aqueduct, completely preserved via the centuries, stands as a hanging reminder of the ingenuity and ambition of Roman civilization. The museum close to the positioning offered fascinating insights into the historical past and development of the aqueduct, exhibiting the way it transported water to the town of Nîmes over 2,000 years in the past.
With a couple of hours to discover, we wandered the paths across the aqueduct, taking in views from each angle. From the heights of a close-by hill, the aqueduct’s three-tiered arches stretched throughout the river beneath, casting sharp shadows towards the late afternoon mild. Down by the water’s edge, we stood instantly beneath the construction, marveling at its sheer scale and the precision with which it was constructed. It’s straightforward to see why this website has endured as a logo of Roman engineering prowess; each stone appeared to inform a narrative of human endeavor and ambition.
The day was a mix of tranquility and awe, from the quiet moments on the misty Rhône to the grandeur of the Pont du Gard.
A Style of Custom: From Riverside Strolls to French Magnificence
Day 4 started with a peaceable morning, having fun with breakfast on the Aquavit Terrace on the bow of the ship. As we savored our meal, the surroundings drifted by—inexperienced hillsides and quaint villages waking as much as the smooth mild of day. It was the right method to ease into our strolling tour of Viviers, a small city that appeared to embody the essence of rural France.
Viviers’ cobblestone streets and winding alleys led us previous charming stone homes, each carrying a bit of the city’s lengthy historical past. Our information shared tales of medieval commerce and native legends as we explored the city’s quieter corners. The spotlight of the tour was the Cathedral of Saint Vincent, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city and river beneath. Inside, its intricate stonework and stained glass captured the sense of grandeur that has echoed via the city for hundreds of years.
After the tour, we spent the afternoon crusing towards Tournon-sur-Rhône, a journey punctuated by an enchanting Nautical Speak from the captain. He shared insights into the challenges and intricacies of navigating the Rhône, providing a glimpse into what it takes to information the ship safely via the river’s bends and currents. The discuss was not solely informative but additionally a reminder of the talent and dedication behind our easy passage alongside the river.
Later, because the solar dipped low on the horizon, we gathered for a VES Cocktail Social gathering, a convention for returning Viking company. This was my third cruise with Viking, and it was heartening to meet up with acquainted faces and meet fellow vacationers who had shared comparable journeys. The ambiance was vigorous, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable—a testomony to the bonds fashioned on these smaller, intimate cruises.
The night’s leisure was a particular deal with: a French ballroom dance present that captured the grace and magnificence of French tradition. We weren’t simply spectators; the efficiency included a story that walked us via the historical past and types of assorted dances, from the waltz to the cha-cha, highlighting how French influences have formed these timeless actions. We had an opportunity to talk with the performers throughout lunch earlier within the day and discovered that the lead dancer had been mastering his craft since he was simply 4 years outdated. Now at 64, his ardour was as evident as ever, with every step executed with precision and aptitude, backed by a long time of dedication.
Because the evening drew on, the rhythmic sways of the dancers and the smooth glow of the ship’s lights forged a heat, inviting ambiance over the deck. It was a becoming finish to a day that celebrated each the simplicity of riverside life and the refined artistry of dance—a mix of the outdated and new, very similar to the journey we have been on.
A Wet Winery Hike and an Sudden Night in Vienne
Day 5 of our Rhone River cruise started with an early morning choice that set the tone for the day. We had the selection between becoming a member of a scenic steam prepare trip via the Rhône Valley or setting out on a winery hike. Torn between the 2, I finally selected the hike, wanting to discover the countryside on foot, even because the sky was grey and heavy with the promise of rain.
As we set off, the rain began to fall steadily, including a layer of mist over the winery. The path wound via rows of vines, their leaves glistening with droplets and yellow with the altering of the season, whereas the earthy scent of moist soil stuffed the air. Although the climate was removed from excellent, there was one thing rewarding about reaching the highest of the winery, the place the mist parted simply sufficient to disclose sweeping views of the valley beneath. From this vantage level, the panorama stretched out earlier than us—the rolling hills, limitless vineyards, and the winding Rhône River making a moody, charming panorama.
After having fun with the view, we descended to the vineyard for a tasting. The country but elegant tasting room offered a heat and welcoming retreat from the damp chill exterior. Whereas the wines have been pleasant, showcasing the distinct flavors of the Rhône area, the expertise felt just a little incomplete. We had anticipated a extra sturdy tasting with native cheeses, contemporary bread, or maybe some chocolate, however none have been supplied. Nonetheless, the setting was charming, and we took our time savoring the wines, reflecting on the morning’s hike earlier than heading again to our ship.
The rain continued to accentuate all through the afternoon, complicating our journey to the following cease on our Rhone River cruise, the historic metropolis of Vienne. The Viking crew managed the difficult situations with exceptional talent, navigating the swollen waters and guaranteeing a easy passage, although it meant arriving later than deliberate. By the point we docked, it was practically 8 PM, and our scheduled afternoon strolling tour had lengthy handed.
Regardless of the delay, the actions director labored some last-minute magic, arranging for a few native guides to steer an impromptu night stroll via Vienne after dinner. Simply as we stepped off the ship, the skies opened up once more, and rain poured down in sheets, soaking everybody to the bone. Massive pink umbrellas have been handed out, however they might do little towards the sudden deluge. Many company retreated to the heat of the ship, however a handful of us, already drenched, determined to embrace the second and keep it up.
For these of us who braved the rain, Vienne revealed a special form of attraction. The reflections of the streetlights danced on the rain-slicked cobblestones, and the scent of rain mingled with the aromas drifting from close by cafés. Our information shared tales of the town’s Roman previous and medieval heritage, his voice resonating via the quiet, rain-filled streets. Although our time in Vienne was transient, the surprising circumstances made it really feel like a hidden, nearly intimate glimpse into the town’s character.
It wasn’t the day we had deliberate, however that’s the character of a Rhone River cruise—every day unfolds with its personal surprises, mixing spontaneity with discovery. Whether or not it’s a misty hike via vineyards or an impromptu tour underneath a downpour, each second turns into a part of the journey, turning the journey into one thing unforgettable.
Discovering Lyon and the Timeless Appeal of Perouges on this Rhone River Cruise
As our Rhone River cruise approached its ultimate days, we sailed into Lyon, a metropolis wealthy in tradition, historical past, and culinary delights. This is able to be our port for the following two days, providing us ample time to discover one in every of France’s most vibrant cities earlier than our journey got here to an finish.
Our day started with a bus trip to the outdated a part of city, winding our method as much as the very best level in Lyon—the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. Perched atop the hill, the basilica gives sweeping views of the town beneath, with its terracotta rooftops stretching out so far as the attention can see. The constructing itself is a masterpiece, a mix of Gothic and Byzantine structure that attracts the attention upward with its intricate designs and gleaming mosaics. Inside, we marveled on the ornate inside, with colourful stained glass and richly adorned ceilings that created an air of reverence and awe. After the tour, we had a while to wander across the grounds, taking within the panoramic vistas earlier than heading again down the hill.
From there, the bus introduced us to the center of outdated Lyon, the place we took a leisurely stroll via the historic streets. The realm was a pleasant maze of cobbled lanes, bustling cafés, and hidden courtyards, every nook revealing one thing new—a road musician taking part in a vigorous tune, a window stuffed with pastries, or a shopfront adorned with native artwork. The town appeared to pulse with a novel mix of old-world attraction and fashionable vibrancy. After a morning of exploring, we returned to the ship for lunch, able to embark on our afternoon tour.
Within the afternoon, we opted for an elective tour to the close by village of Perouges, a spot that felt as if it had been frozen in time. The second we stepped via its stone archway, we have been transported again centuries, to an period when life moved at a gentler, unhurried tempo. Our information shared tales of the village’s medieval roots, explaining how its strategic location made it a bustling commerce hub prior to now. As we walked alongside the slim, cobblestone streets, lined with stone homes and iron lanterns, it was straightforward to think about the village because it as soon as was, stuffed with retailers and craftsmen going about their each day lives.
One of many highlights of our go to was sampling an area delicacy often called “sugar pie.” Not like something we’d tasted earlier than, it was a easy but scrumptious deal with—a skinny slice of dough topped with butter and sugar, then baked to a golden crisp. The sweetness melted on the tongue, and paired with the attractive setting, it was a second to savor. The day was bathed in heat, golden mild, with clear skies overhead—a completely picture-perfect afternoon.
As we made our method again to Lyon, there was a way of achievement, as if the day had captured the essence of the whole lot that makes a Rhone River cruise so particular. From the grandeur of the basilica overlooking the town to the quaint, timeless great thing about Perouges, we had skilled a collection of moments that may linger lengthy after the journey ended.
A Excellent Farewell: Beaujolais, Lyon, and Newfound Mates
Our ultimate day on the Rhone River cruise took us to the luxurious, rolling hills of Beaujolais Wine Nation. This included tour was thoughtfully organized, with solely about 20 company per bus, guaranteeing an intimate expertise as we visited a number of vineyards throughout the area. We visited Chateau des Ravatys, a shocking 29-hectare winery with an ideal alchemy for optimum manufacturing.
The day was blessed with clear skies, and the vineyards, stretched throughout the light slopes, have been bathed in heat, golden daylight. Our information led us via the wine-making course of, from grape to glass, and we had the prospect to savor a number of wines that captured the essence of Beaujolais—mild, contemporary, and delightfully nuanced. It was a leisurely morning of tastings and excursions, and by the point we returned to the ship for lunch, we have been stuffed with the easygoing spirit of the countryside.
That afternoon, Shane and I got down to discover Lyon one final time, decided to soak in each second of the town’s attraction. The climate couldn’t have been higher; there wasn’t a cloud within the sky, and the temperature was good. We meandered via the streets, previous the outdated Olympic aquatics middle, a hanging piece of structure with an intriguing backstory. Constructed within the late Sixties by a hopeful mayor who was satisfied Lyon would host the Olympics, the middle by no means noticed the Video games—because it went to Mexico Metropolis as an alternative—however the venue has since develop into an iconic image of the town, a testomony to its aspirations.
As we continued our stroll, we stumbled upon a bustling sq. the place a giant band of road performers, greater than 20 robust, was taking part in vigorous, upbeat music. The infectious vitality stuffed the sq., and we couldn’t assist however pause to pay attention, tapping our ft to the rhythm together with a crowd of smiling onlookers. It was a type of surprising, joyful moments that make touring so memorable—a fleeting reference to a spot and its individuals.
Our subsequent cease was Le Dôme, the glamorous bar on the InterContinental, which has been voted as one of the vital beautiful resort bars on the earth. Stepping inside, it was straightforward to see why. The hovering ceilings, elegant décor, and heat, inviting ambiance made it the right place to toast to the tip of an unimaginable journey. We sipped our cocktails, reflecting on the week’s adventures, realizing we’d quickly need to say goodbye to the ship, the crew, and our fellow passengers.
We returned to the ship simply in supper time, barely sufficient time to clean up earlier than our ultimate meal on board. Dinner that evening was bittersweet, stuffed with laughter, shared tales, and the promise of recent friendships that had been solid over the course of the week. One of many distinctive elements of a Viking River cruise is its smaller, extra intimate setting. With simply round 190 passengers, the ship felt extra like a floating neighborhood than a standard cruise liner. Meals have been shared collectively, and excursions have been alternatives to attach with acquainted faces, creating a way of camaraderie that made the journey particular. It wasn’t simply the company who made an impression; the crew, hailing from quite a lot of nations, introduced their very own tales and heat, including to mosaic of experiences.
As we mentioned our goodbyes that evening, exchanging contact data and heartfelt guarantees to remain in contact, it was clear that this Rhone River cruise had been greater than only a voyage from Avignon to Lyon. It had been a journey of connection—connecting with the tradition, the land, and, most significantly, with individuals. We disembarked the following morning, our hearts full and our minds brimming with reminiscences, grateful for each second on this extraordinary cruise.
The Attract of a Viking Rhone River Cruise: Consolation, Tradition, and Class
A Viking Rhone River Cruise stands out for his or her seamless mix of luxurious, consolation, and immersive journey. With a give attention to destination-centric itineraries, these cruises are designed to maximise exploration, providing rigorously curated excursions that enable company to delve into the tradition, historical past, and flavors of every port. The smaller ship dimension is a key benefit, offering simpler entry to ports within the coronary heart of cities, enabling company to step proper off the ship and into the native expertise. Onboard, the refined Scandinavian design emphasizes magnificence and luxury, making a serene ambiance all through. The all-inclusive nature of Viking cruises means company can take pleasure in high-quality eating, complimentary beer and wine with meals, and even Wi-Fi with out worrying about hidden prices. Mixed with attentive, customized service, spacious staterooms, and enrichment actions that convey every vacation spot to life, a Viking River Cruise is a pleasurable, stress-free journey that permits vacationers to really savor the essence of the area.
When you’ve got any questions on this Rhone River Cruise with Viking, please depart a remark beneath, I’m completely satisfied to assist. Oh, and for those who’re excited by a Central Europe River Cruise, I’ve finished a type of with Viking as properly. So, till subsequent time, we’ll see ya on the street…
The submit Avignon to Lyon: My Unforgettable Rhone River Cruise with Viking first appeared on Mike’s Highway Journey.
The submit Avignon to Lyon: My Unforgettable Rhone River Cruise with Viking appeared first on Mike's Highway Journey.
