Riverside Ravel, 4 nights Secrets of the Rhone River Cruise ex Avignon to Lyon

Fine wines, sublime scenery, riveting history—this outstanding foray into the South of France has it all! Enjoy 5 exquisite days, beginning in stately Avignon and ending in the foodie paradise of Lyon. Along the way, visit the regal Palace of the Popes, see one of the best-preserved 1st-century Roman amphitheatres in the world, and savor the wines and chocolate of Tain l'Hermitage. You can also personalize your experience with a selection of great Riverside choices—Roman Nîmes, Aix-en-Provence, the Beaujolais wine region, Pont du Gard, the Camargue nature preserve, a truffle experience, and a ghostly night tour. Finally, if the thought of active pursuits makes your heart beat a little faster, you might enjoy kayaking, eBiking, or hiking with an expert guide.

AVIGNON, FRANCE
It is a city of unparalleled beauty. It curves its way over the river Rhone, and has done so since 1840. The Pont Saint-Benezet acquired international fame through the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”. Crossing it, you find yourself immediately in front of the Papal Palace, one of the largest and most important medieval buildings in Europe. It arose, it must be said, out of sheer laziness: For the Archbishop of Bordeaux did not wish to travel to Rome for his papal consecration. He had himself crowned in Lyon and had a palace built in Avignon. A monument.

ARLES, FRANCE
This pearl of Provence is surrounded by the most beautiful natural parks in Europe. Today, Arles is the epitome of important art and a contemporary witness to an eventful history, from the amphitheatre to proud patrician houses. And what would Arles be without van Gogh – strolling through the town in the footsteps of this great artist – that too is unforgettable.

VIVIERS, FRANCE
At night, the stories seem to emanate from the walls of the nearby houses. Narrow alleys. Cobblestone. This small town is a true gem. Yes, a walk through Viviers is a journey back to the Middle Ages, because the former bishop’s town was spared the destruction of wars. Besides small shops, there are also big things to see. For example, the cathedral with special works of art such as the five tapestries – three of them were given to the bishop by Napoleon III. A highlight in the truest sense of the word is the viewpoint in the upper town. What a view of this enchanting place.

TAIN L'HERMITAGE, FRANCE
Just opposite Tournon, Tain-l'Hermitage is a town in the Drome department, to the north of Valence. Cotes du Rhone wine and gourmet chocolate make Tain-l'Hermitage a popular destination with epicurean travellers and are the main attraction for visitors. All excursions to Tournon will be operated from here.

LYON, FRANCE
Lyon is the destination for fine food fans. 2000 years of rich history. Musee des Beaux-Arts. The old town with cobblestone streets. The Basilica Notre-Dame and a magnificent view over the city and the countryside. Silk painting in the smart working-class district of La Croix-Rousse. The gourmet temple of Les Halles de Lyon de Paul Bocuse. The finest cuisine in the region’s typical “Bouchon” style. So much sensuality. So much pleasure.

There is a photo of the famous French composer Ravel showing him in a relaxed pose in a leather armchair, with a well-groomed appearance, a bespoke suit, and with a waistcoat and silk tie. This photo symbolically stands for Riverside Ravel. A voyage on this ship means enjoying comfort and fine cuisine, stimulating the senses and experiencing the unforgettable. As in Ravel’s famous Boléro, you will glide slowly at a constant rhythm over the Rhône and Saône – and it is an attraction in itself.

A river cruise touches the senses. It combines space and time to create a contemplative experience. Sitting on the upper deck in an intimate atmosphere, watching unspoiled, beautiful scenery pass by – these are moments you will never forget.

Marvel at the engineering prowess of the locks. Immerse yourself in the culture of Europe's most beautiful cities. Enjoy the culinary specialties of the regions the ship passes through. And you only have to pack your suitcase once. Yes, a river cruise in Europe with Riverside Luxury Cruises also means setting out to find yourself.