It’s a waterway that really needs no introduction – the Rhône River is quintessentially French, a mainstay in both culture and politics – and one that Riverside Luxury Cruises can’t wait to show you. This is the river cruise that everyone needs to experience at least once, and the professionals at Riverside are ready with bucolic excursions, historic immersion, gastronomic delights and sumptuous suites.
The Rhône River continues to play a part of the history of France, past and present, sailing through some of the most beautiful regions in the country. It has been a vital trade route for centuries, ferrying things like salt, wine and marble throughout Europe. From Burgundy through Rhône-Alpes and into Provence, the villages and towns Riverside will take you were established as trading posts long ago, as well as strategic defense barriers – as evidenced in the castles and fortifications you will visit.
See some of the most beautiful towns in Europe
At the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon has been a traveler hub for centuries, extending its gracious hospitality long before train travel became commonplace. The medieval and Renaissance essence of Old Lyon – one of the largest Renaissance regions in Europe after Venice – delivers narrow laneways, serene courtyards, artisanal ateliers and ample cafés. France’s third-largest city also enjoys the unofficial title of the gastronomic capital of the France. Be sure to visit the gourmet temple of Les Halles de Lyon de Paul Bocuse.
Once a major center of the Roman Empire with a population of 30,000, Vienne is now a small town at the confluence of the Gère and Rhône rivers. Excursions here include the Archaeological Museum, the St-Romain-en-Gal museum complex and the remains of a former thermal bath.
The town of Tournon seems to have everything that one associates with France – a 10th-century castle, history museum, botanical gardens, a chocolate factory and more. Marc Seguin, developer of the first wire-cable suspension bridge, set his first one here in 1825. Tournon is also known for the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Untouched by the wars of the last century, Viviers enjoys its status as one of the most well-preserved medieval towns on the Rhône. Riverside’s stops here include many stories of the Middle Ages, the narrow cobblestone streets still lined with 18th-century mansions.
A visit to Avignon would not be complete without a visit to the magnificent Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, a marvel of engineering that is more than two millennia old. The city of Avignon is also well known as the seat of the Roman Catholic church in the 14th century. The Papal Palace is a stop on the tour, as is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms with its incredible garden. Wine-lovers will jump at the chance to taste their way through the cellars at nearby Châteauneuf du Pape.
Arles, the Pearl of Provence, has some of the most beautiful parkland in Europe. This location is renowned for the Roman amphitheatre in the middle of town which is still in use today. Arles is also famous for inspiring the work of artist Vincent van Gogh. You may just recognize various parts of town.
Let Riverside Luxury Cruises paint you into this scene
With a Rhône cruise, you are immersed in some of the most romantic regions of France while enjoying the refined luxury of the Riverside Ravel. This ship is outfitted with sumptuous furnishings, elegant details, panoramic windows and fine cuisine – this is France after all! Get in touch with the Tully Travel Designers today.