The Rhone River starts in an Alpine glacier in
Switzerland and it is the only major river in Europe to flow directly
into the Mediterranean Sea. Its journey through Southern France makes
for an absolutely idyllic river cruise route that takes guests through
the most beautiful and historical french cities and landmarks. Artists
have long been amazed by the Rhone River, with Vincent van Gogh even
making it his subject in his famous “Starry Night Over The Rhone”
painting.
People’s love affair with the Rhone
goes back much further than the 19th century however. The Rhone’s
location was of significant importance to many who fought for control of
the region, with the Romans’ time in power, especially, having left a
distinct mark in the architecture in many southern towns. Many cities
were built alongside the banks of the Rhone and it’s these cities you’ll
be touring on your Southern France river cruise.
You’ll
notice evidence of a Roman past when our river cruise stops in Lyon, a
city that lives where the Rhone and Saône rivers meet. Home to the grand
Notre Dame Basilica and many secret cobblestone pathways, this medieval
city will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different century.
Also considered the food capital of the world, you’ll be spoiled with
the many French specialties available to you. You can’t possibly leave
Lyon without trying one of their famous quenelle dishes.
One
of the highlights of a Rhone river cruise through the South of France
is our stop in Tournon. Located right on the riverbanks of the Rhone,
this picturesque town is home to the 10th century “Musee de France”
castle. It now houses the museum, and Scenic guests have the opportunity
to enjoy afternoon cocktails on the terrace of this historic castle,
along with a private acoustic set performed by local guitarists.
A
river cruise on the Rhone River wouldn’t be complete without a stop in
Avignon, home to the famous Palace of the Popes. Officially deemed a
World Heritage Site in 1995, “The Palais des Papes” symbolizes the
church’s influence on Western Christianity in the 14th century. It is
the biggest Gothic palace in all of Europe and it directly overlooks the
Rhone. Scenic has the exclusive privilege to provide guests with an
after-hours musical performance at the Palace of the Popes, featuring
music by the likes of Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven and Strauss.
In
between stops in larger cities, Scenic guests will also have the chance
to enjoy some of the best wine in the world and experience typical
French life, with opportunities to visit local food markets (with a
personal chef as your guide!), ancient cathedrals and monasteries, river
lookouts, and an olive farm.
In all, our
Scenic river cruise on the Rhone makes for one exquisite week in the
South of France. Relax, take in the French culture, and create memories
that will last long after our Scenic ship docks back in the harbour.
Scenic
offers two unique Rhone river cruises, differentiating in length and
itinerary, for your travel convenience. Explore them in detail here.
