Flowing from the glacial waters of the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea, the Rhône River winds its way through the lush lavender fields, sun-washed storybook villages and fabled French vineyards that inspired Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gaugin. Here’s why you should say ‘oui’ to the Rhône.
Savour the savoir-faire
Treat yourself to the lands of local patisseries, palate-tempting cuisines and celebrated wines. From hearty fare to fresh flavours, you’ll notice the transition from Alpine influences in the north to Mediterranean touches in the south. For example, try reblochon (a popular Alpine cheese) and saucisson in Lyon before finding an abundance of olives and rich fish stews in Provence. The Rhône area is also famous for its red wines – we’re talking full-bodied syrahs with peppery, dark fruit notes.
A brush with greatness
The Rhône lazily winds its way through some of the most beautiful land- and cityscapes in France. Cézanne found inspiration in his hometown of Aix-en-Provence which developed his love for urban and natural settings. Come see for yourself why Van Gogh fell in love with the Provençal shades and colours in Arles, where he painted his famous The Yellow House and The Starry Night pieces. And in Arles, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Van Gogh from an artist and paint your very own inspired artwork!
High five
The Rhône Basin is home to the five French regions of Provence, Burgundy, Auvergne, Rhône-Alps and Languedoc-Roussilion. From north to south, uncover ancient Roman history, migratory birds in the Camargue wetlands, blooming fruit orchards and vegetable farms, and winemaking traditions.
Excursions with Avalon Waterways
These are some of our favourite excursions when cruising on the Rhône:
- Roll through a living postcard of panoramic views on a guided rail bike through the Gorges du Doux
- Hike through the terraced hilltop vineyards that surround Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage
- Dig into a taste of local life with a visit to an oyster farm in the Camargue National Park
- Kayak beneath the arches of the Pont du Gard aqueduct, an architectural wonder at 2,000 years old
So, what are you waiting for? Discover all that the Rhône has to offer on an Avalon Waterways river cruise.
