We embarked in Lyon to sail to Avignon (this route can also operate in reverse), visiting Arles, Viviers, Vienne and Avignon. In Arles, we chose the morning tour to Les-Baux-de-Provence, and after walking through this beautiful historic village set atop a rocky outcrop, with a ruined castle overlooking the natural park region, we visited the Carrieres des Lumieres light show.
Egyptian Pharaohs is the current theme, which projects large images on the stone walls of huge galleries dug into the rock - it was absolutely breathtaking.
In the afternoon, we visited the captivating Camargue, which is renowned for its pink flamingos, sandy beaches, salt marshes, black bulls and wild horses, all just a stone's throw from the Mediterranean Sea.
We explored this UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve by 4x4, enjoying a mini safari through these vast wetlands. We ended in the charming village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, enjoying the full of colours of Provençe among ancient architecture and gorgeous sea views.
No trip to the South of France is complete without a visit to a lavender farm, and Viviers did not disappoint. Stretching from the Southern Alps to the Rhône Valley, the Drôme Provençale is known for its picture-perfect lavender blooms, where we also tried our hand at making our very own body lotion using this relaxing purple plant.
Viviers itself is a lovely old town, with cobblestone streets that weave through the town like a matrix to the central castle that towers within. We were treated to a beautiful, angelic song and autoharp performance as dusk fell within the stone walls of the castle courtyard - a memory to last a lifetime.
River Cruising Uncovered
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Of course, sampling a varietal or two in France is a must, particularly when it comes from the iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape. I was beyond excited when we booked this cruise and learnt that one of the tours included in Avignon was a private exclusive dinner for Riverside guests only, at the magnificent Châteauneuf-du-Pape winery.
Having explored the historical centre of Avignon on a guided walk, which included an inside visit to the incredible Palace of the Popes, we then enjoyed a scenic drive through the lush vineyard-lined countryside. When we arrived at the winery, the sun was just setting and a mixture of bright yellow and red colours glistened over the greenery, it was just breathtaking.
If you are a food and wine aficionado, then this will be an absolute treat. After our tour around the property, we were welcomed by our hosts with champagne and canapés. Whilst we mingled with our fellow guests, it was announced that we would be dining in the cave!
Accompanied by a classical violinist who played the most beautiful version of Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D, we enjoyed a scrumptious meal where all the ingredients were sourced locally, and an assortment of fine wines.
We felt very lucky to be a part of this extraordinary experience and I am confident this tour will not disappoint future guests; Riverside got it spot on. With so much to see and do in this beautiful area of France, and with a river cruise being such a wonderful way to explore, we will certainly return - À bientôt!
