Embarking on a Viking Rhone River cruise is like stepping right into a dwelling tapestry of southeastern France. The river weaves by way of 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 unique 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 among 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 singular connection. (Should you’d wish to study extra about our story, take a look at 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 bags declare, exchanged greetings, and inside minutes had been on a shuttle bus heading towards the bustling Marseilles prepare station. For simply €10 every, the 30-minute trip whisked us by way of components of town, hinting on the locations we’d later discover.
Our lodge was conveniently positioned simply throughout the road from the station, making it straightforward to drop off our luggage and head straight out to find what Marseilles needed to provide. 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 a whole bunch of years. As a matter of truth, Marseilles is likely one of the oldest repeatedly inhabited cities in Europe, courting again greater than 2500 years. After a day of exploration, and operating on little greater than the joy of the journey, we discovered a comfortable 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 option to the prepare station as soon as once more, this time certain for Avignon. The journey was easy, with the prepare gliding by way of picturesque countryside, dotted with quaint villages and rolling hills. About an hour and a half later, we stepped off the prepare into a stunning, sun-drenched day. It was mid-October, however the climate was as welcoming as a heat summer season breeze. Our ship, docked on the banks of the Rhône, was only a kilometer stroll from town middle—an ideal option to start our journey.
With Google Maps guiding our method by way of the medieval streets, we strolled previous bustling cafés, charming outlets, and glimpses of historical past round each nook. Thankfully, I had a WiFi DASH gadget, a lifesaver that allowed us to remain linked 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. Beneath 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 full of life environment, 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 night time—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 Attraction: 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. Identified for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater and ties to Vincent van Gogh, Arles seems like a stroll by way of time. As we strolled by way of its winding, cobbled streets on a guided tour, it wasn’t onerous 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 right this moment, and the gorgeous 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 Evening,” which nonetheless attracts guests desperate to step right into a scene straight out of a portray. The tour was a delicate 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 by way of olive groves and vineyards, because the panorama shifted to disclose the rugged great thing about Provence. Our vacation spot, Carrières de Lumières, was not like something we had ever skilled. What was as soon as an unlimited sandstone quarry has been remodeled into a rare artwork house, the place photographs and video are projected onto the towering partitions, flooring, and even ceiling, making a mesmerizing, 360-degree visible spectacle.
The present that day was a kaleidoscope of coloration 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 photographs into one thing dynamic and ethereal. Because the music swelled, your complete house appeared to breathe, pulling us right into a world of swirling colours and light-weight. It was as if we had been inside a shifting portray, and for an hour, time stood nonetheless as we wandered by way of this immersive, otherworldly atmosphere. 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 by way of 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 alluring cafés. We browsed by way of the shops, choosing up some native lavender-scented soaps and handmade ceramics earlier than stopping at a quaint café to get pleasure from 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 implausible dinner awaited us. The night’s leisure was full of life 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 unique 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 environment 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 latest 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. Identified 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 among 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 by way of 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 building of the aqueduct, exhibiting the way it transported water to 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 under, casting sharp shadows in opposition to 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 Class
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 tender mild of day. It was the right option 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, every one 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 under. Inside, its intricate stonework and stained glass captured the sense of grandeur that has echoed by way of 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 Discuss 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 by way of 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 related journeys. The environment was full of life, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable—a testomony to the bonds shaped on these smaller, intimate cruises.
The night’s leisure was a particular deal with: a French ballroom dance present that captured the grace and class of French tradition. We weren’t simply spectators; the efficiency included a story that walked us by way of 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 speak with the performers throughout lunch earlier within the day and realized 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 night time drew on, the rhythmic sways of the dancers and the tender glow of the ship’s lights solid 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 like the journey we had 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 by way of the Rhône Valley or setting out on a winery hike. Torn between the 2, I finally selected the hike, desperate 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 by way of rows of vines, their leaves glistening with droplets and yellow with the altering of the season, whereas the earthy scent of moist soil crammed the air. Although the climate was removed from very best, 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 under. From this vantage level, the panorama stretched out earlier than us—the rolling hills, countless 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 had been pleasant, showcasing the distinct flavors of the Rhône area, the expertise felt just a little incomplete. We had anticipated a extra strong tasting with native cheeses, contemporary bread, or maybe some chocolate, however none had been provided. 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 circumstances with outstanding talent, navigating the swollen waters and guaranteeing a easy passage, despite the fact that 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 guide an impromptu night stroll by way of 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 purple umbrellas had been handed out, however they might do little in opposition to 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 unique 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 town’s Roman previous and medieval heritage, his voice resonating by way of the quiet, rain-filled streets. Although our time in Vienne was transient, the sudden circumstances made it really feel like a hidden, nearly intimate glimpse into 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 by way of vineyards or an impromptu tour below a downpour, each second turns into a part of the journey, turning the journey into one thing unforgettable.
Discovering Lyon and the Timeless Attraction of Perouges on this Rhone River Cruise
As our Rhone River cruise approached its closing days, we sailed into Lyon, a metropolis wealthy in tradition, historical past, and culinary delights. This could be our port for the following two days, providing us ample time to discover one among 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 affords sweeping views of town under, 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 pulls 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 by way of 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 enjoying a full of life tune, a window full of pastries, or a shopfront adorned with native artwork. Town appeared to pulse with a singular mix of old-world attraction and trendy 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 non-compulsory tour to the close by village of Perouges, a spot that felt as if it had been frozen in time. The second we stepped by way of its stone archway, we had 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, full of retailers and craftsmen going about their every 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 gorgeous setting, it was a second to savor. The day was bathed in heat, golden mild, with clear skies overhead—a fully picture-perfect afternoon.
As we made our method again to Lyon, there was a way of success, as if the day had captured the essence of every part that makes a Rhone River cruise so particular. From the grandeur of the basilica overlooking town to the quaint, timeless great thing about Perouges, we had skilled a collection of moments that will linger lengthy after the journey ended.
A Excellent Farewell: Beaujolais, Lyon, and Newfound Buddies
Our closing day on the Rhone River cruise took us to the plush, 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 choice of vineyards throughout the area. We visited Chateau des Ravatys, a surprising 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, had been bathed in heat, golden daylight. Our information led us by way of the wine-making course of, from grape to glass, and we had the prospect to savor a choice 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 had been full of 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 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 by way of 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 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 enjoying full of life, upbeat music. The infectious vitality crammed the sq., and we couldn’t assist however pause to hear, tapping our toes to the rhythm together with a crowd of smiling onlookers. It was a kind of sudden, 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 probably the most gorgeous lodge bars on the earth. Stepping inside, it was straightforward to see why. The hovering ceilings, elegant décor, and heat, inviting environment 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 dinner time, barely sufficient time to clean up earlier than our closing meal on board. Dinner that night time was bittersweet, full of laughter, shared tales, and the promise of latest friendships that had been solid over the course of the week. One of many distinctive facets 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 conventional cruise liner. Meals had been shared collectively, and excursions had 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 a wide range of international locations, introduced their very own tales and heat, including to mosaic of experiences.
As we stated our goodbyes that night time, exchanging contact info 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 concentrate on destination-centric itineraries, these cruises are designed to maximise exploration, providing rigorously curated excursions that permit 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 class and luxury, making a serene environment all through. The all-inclusive nature of Viking cruises means company can get pleasure from high-quality eating, complimentary beer and wine with meals, and even Wi-Fi with out worrying about hidden prices. Mixed with attentive, personalised 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.
In case you have any questions on this Rhone River Cruise with Viking, please depart a remark under, I’m glad to assist. Oh, and when you’re thinking about a Central Europe River Cruise, I’ve performed a kind of with Viking as nicely. So, till subsequent time, we’ll see ya on the street…