Rhône River Cruises
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8 Days Arles to Chalon Sur Saone
Operator: Avalon River Cruises
The Rhône River
Where does the Rhône start & finish?
The Rhône River originates in the Swiss Alps, specifically from the Rhône Glacier in the canton of Valais. It flows through Lake Geneva and enters France, eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea through a delta in the Camargue region. The river has a total length of approximately 813 km's (505 miles).
Do river cruises sail the length of the Rhône?
While the Rhône starts in Switzerland, most river cruises focus on the French section of the river, typically starting from Lyon and going south towards the Mediterranean, or vice versa. The stretch of the river from Lyon to the Mediterranean Sea is navigable and is the section most often included in river cruise itineraries.
Gourmet Capital
The Rhône flows through Lyon, often considered the gastronomic capital of France. Many river cruises offer culinary excursions in Lyon, where you can indulge in gourmet delights from fine dining to local markets.
Wine Lovers' Paradise
The Rhône Valley is one of France's premier wine-producing regions. You'll find renowned vineyards near Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, offering excellent opportunities for wine-tasting tours.
Impressionist Scenery
The Rhône was a great inspiration for Vincent van Gogh, especially during his time in Arles. The vivid landscapes and light have also inspired many other artists, adding a layer of artistic history to the region.
The Camargue
Near the Rhône Delta, you'll find the Camargue, a natural region famous for its pink flamingos, white horses, and black bulls. Some cruises offer excursions to this unique natural reserve, providing a break from the cities and vineyards.
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Discover Must Do Experiences and Highlights
Lyon
This vibrant city beckons with its culinary excellence, UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and Basilica of Notre Dame. Experience a blend of historical and contemporary architecture, or witness sweeping views from the top of Fourvière Hill.
Tournon
Explore the 16th-century Tournon Castle and museum and wander through the historic old town. The dual suspension bridges afford breathtaking river views, and did we mention it is also a wine lover's haven?
Viviers
Delight in a visit to charming Viviers. With residences of past nobility and the 12th-century St Vincent Cathedral, immerse yourself in history against the backdrop of the breathtaking French countryside.
Pont du Gard, Avignon
Built in the first century AD, the Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct bridge and UNESCO-listed site. This architectural marvel once delivered water to the ancient city known as Nemausus, 50km away!
Artistic Arles
Home to the ancient Arles Amphitheatre, the city's historic and artistic heritage will charm and fascinate. Vincent van Gogh painted over 300 pieces during his stay here - discover the magic yourself.
Latest Reviews What our clients are saying about their journeys along the Rhône
Everything onboard was amazing, from the friendly staff, the wonderful food & wine to the included tours, complete with excellent local guides. We couldn’t fault it. It was the perfect way to end a long trip abroad. France in Autumn was beautiful with the trees changing colour and the scenery we saw from our ship was spectacular. We chose the lower deck cabins as we were travelling with a group, so not in cabins much. Perfectly fine for our needs. Many thanks to Georgie for organising this part of our holiday. Nothing was too much trouble and she happily answered all our queries!😄
Explore More Your guide to travelling along the Rhône
13 November, 2023
Burgundy & Provence by RiverJourney through Burgundy and Provence on a scenic river cruise along the Saône and Rhône rivers. This extraordinary journey is filled with remarkable food, world-class wines, and a deep dive into history. Discover the highlights of this remarkable region and explore your next river cruise...
