In this last blog about Avalon Waterways’ Storyteller Series sailings, we delve into the Romantic Rhine. From the German Black Forest of fairy tales to the historic canals of Amsterdam, be inspired by the castle-lined backdrops, quaint towns, and panoramic views that follow you wherever you go!
Our Romantic Rhine river cruise is so popular that we have included two Storyteller Series sailings on this spectacular itinerary! This year, we are so lucky to welcome back Diana Gabaldon, author of the No. 1 New York Times bestselling Outlander series.
And in 2022, Christopher Moore puts his own comical spin on the Rhine.
True to its name, we’ve compiled a list of the four most romantic places along the Rhine to visit with your loved ones.
Breisach
Raise a glass on a visit to Badischer Winzerkeller, the largest German wine producer in Europe. Sip and swirl your way through a refreshing wine tasting, then take a stroll through the picturesque vineyards of Baden while learning the tips, tricks and history of wine making in this region of Germany with pinot noir, grauburgunder and pinot gris some of the more popular varietals. With plenty of sunshine and being one of the warmest areas in the country, it is said that the wines have higher Oechsle degrees – that is, more ripeness and natural sugars at harvest time. You can only guess how tasty the local drops are!
Strasbourg
Explore the historic quarter of La Petite France, filled with so much charm, from its half-timbered colourful houses, the River Ill running through its channels, to the over-bridges and narrow, cobblestone streets. Whether you’re there by day or night, La Petite France is a magical area of Strasbourg. Stop by a local café for a coffee and snack or languish over a tasty dinner of local specialties, like coq au Riesling or tarte à l’oignon.
Rhine Gorge
Sit back and relax on the Sky Deck of your Suite Ship as you sail through one of the world’s most renowned riverscapes, the Rhine Gorge. Lined with castles (some in ruins, some still standing strong – but all still just as magnificent as the next!), your Cruise Director will give a fascinating commentary as you settle in with a hot drink or wine, and perhaps one of the famous Avalon chocolate chip biscuits. The views from atop the Sky Deck are second to none and is sure to be a memory that you won’t forget in a hurry!
Amsterdam
How can you not fall in love with the romance of Amsterdam? With a prominent bike culture, house boats on flower-lined canals, and laidback atmosphere, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a place that you’ve only visited in your dreams. Watching your first sunset lighting up the narrow streets and canals with its shades of orange is simply phenomenal, and we guarantee you’ll never tire of this vibrant city.
Your Romantic Rhine sailing with Diana Gabaldon departs 30 October 2021; or with Christopher Moore on 20 September 2022. Click here for full itinerary details.