TOP 5 LUXURY RIVER CRUISE DESTINATIONS IN FRANCE
France is a beautiful and diverse European country home to some of the most scenic river routes in the world. Winding through rolling countryside, charming villages and historical sites, river cruises in France blend natural beauty with culture to form the ultimate holiday experience.
Luxury river cruises are the epitome of adventure and relaxation. Admire stunning landscapes from the comfort of an elegant vessel, featuring spacious cabins, gourmet dining and panoramic viewing decks. With incredible off-board ex
This guide explores the top five destinations for luxury river cruise holidays in France. From the mediaeval villages of the Loire Valley to the infamous vineyards of Burgundy, we cover all the best spots for an unforgettable French getaway.
1. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is known as France’s wine capital, home to world-renowned vineyards and quaint historic towns. The Garonne and Dordogne rivers are the focal point of Bordeaux river cruises and offer stunning views of the country’s southwestern landscape. From vine-covered hills and limestone cliffs to colorful floral fields, the riverside views in Bordeaux are as varied as they are beautiful.
Cruising through Bordeaux is a wine connoisseur’s paradise. Enjoy a private tour of Médoc, one of the most famous vineyards in the region, wander through the stretches of verdant green fields, or indulge in an onboard wine-tasting class led by sommelier experts.
Stop at Bordeaux’s waterfront historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the magnificent gothic architecture, or venture onshore as you dock at charming villages like Saint-Émilion for a flavor of Bordeaux’s mediaeval history.
2. Provence
Provence is famed for its glorious Mediterranean climate and vibrant lavender fields. The Rhône River flows from the Swiss Alps down through southeastern France, taking travelers on a historic journey through lavender-blanketed countryside dotted with Roman ruins and extravagant château. For luxury river cruises that fuse natural beauty with cultural heritage, consider Provence as your chosen destination.
Soak in the relaxing ambience of the Provençal countryside as you glide past the grapevines clinging to steep hills, or wildlife enthusiasts can look out for flamingos and black bulls on the Camargue wetlands.
Sample traditional Provençal cuisine in small historic towns like Avignon, savouring truffles paired with local wine, or take a guided walk through the Roman ruins of Arles to learn about the region’s interesting history.
3. Burgundy
The epicenter of wine and gastronomy in France, Burgundy is the ultimate destination for luxurious dining experiences on a river cruise holiday. Venture along the flowing Saône Rivers to witness the vast Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards in Burgundy’s patchwork fields, spotting herons and kites that fly along the watersides.
Enjoy gourmet dinners in elegant onboard lounges, sampling local specialties like Escargot and Dijon mustard. For a holiday with authentic culinary experiences set against the backdrop of peaceful countryside, luxury barge cruises in Burgundy are the perfect option.
Admire the pretty rural village of Vandenesse-en-Auxois, nestled along the Burgundy canal. Wander through the quiet village pathways when you dock, or enjoy the golden hues settling over the village as you sail at sunset.
4. Alsace
On the border of Eastern France and Germany, Alsace is one of the country’s most varied and beautiful regions along the Rhine River. Known for its mediaeval towns and distinctive cultural heritage, blending German and French influences, Alsace is a diverse region to explore on a luxury river cruise.
Sail through picturesque towns like Colmar and Strasbourg to experience authentic Alsace culture. The latter is Alsace’s vibrant capital, famous for its fusion of historic and modern architecture. Enjoy a guided tour of the Gothic Cathedral or wander through the La Petite France district, where winding streets meet colorful timber houses to create this striking UNESCO World Heritage site.
Whilst you relax onboard, enjoy Riesling wine popular to the Alsace region, and attend a cooking demonstration by the ship’s trained chefs to see the making of German-French dishes like tarte flambée.
5. Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is often described as ‘The Garden of France,’ famous for its impressive châteaux that line the beautiful landscape. Fairytale turrets, serene moats and blossoming gardens make the castles of this region a stand-out feature on a luxury river cruise.
As you sail along the Loire River, enjoy peaceful views of flourishing forests and rolling green hills, forming the perfect idyllic backdrop as you sip local wine in an upscale barge lounge. Stop off at Amboise, a charming town on the Loire river banks where you can explore the local boutiques and cafes.
Enjoy a day trip to the famous Chambord châteaux where you can take a guided tour of the grounds, seeing the vineyards where many sparkling wines are produced. This iconic castle is a Renaissance masterpiece and attracts visitors from across the world.
Summary
France is one of the top regions for luxury river cruises, with a vast array of landscapes, historic hotspots and delicious cuisine. Home to some of the world’s most esteemed wineries, the opportunities for luxurious tasting tours and exquisite dining experiences are endless.
Exploring France via its waterways is a magnificent way to see the country. From the German influences of Alsace to the traditional villages of Burgundy, there are endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation on a French River cruise.
So, when you plan your luxurious getaway, be sure to include some of these top five destinations in your itinerary.
Enjoy and bon voyage!
