Last month, Rich and I had the opportunity to sail through the heart of France on the AMACello. It was a voyage through time, culture, and indulgence. As we meandered along the Saône and Rhône rivers, each stop brought new discoveries, from rolling vineyards to medieval villages, bustling markets, and the gastronomic delights of Burgundy and Provence.
Our journey began in Arles, where we traced the footsteps of Van Gogh, seeing the landscapes that inspired some of his most famous works. The Roman amphitheater, still in use today, stood as a testament to the city's ancient past.
In Avignon, the grandeur of the Palais des Papes reminded us of the city's historical importance. Once the seat of the papacy, its imposing walls and frescoed chambers transported us back in time.
Viviers, a medieval jewel, took us back in time with its cobbled streets and the imposing Cathedral of Saint Vincent, a striking example of Romanesque architecture.
Vienne, where the echoes of the Roman Empire were everywhere, left a lasting impression. The most fascinating site was the Temple of Augustus and Livia, a remarkably preserved Roman temple. Nearby was a dedication plaque for Thomas Jefferson, a reminder of the city's deep historical connections and his contributions to the city while living in Vienne.
Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, was a feast for the senses. We strolled through Vieux Lyon, crossed a bridge for a panoramic view of the city, and explored the area between the Saône and Rhône. A walking tour with food tastings introduced us to local charcuterie, cheeses, sweets, and, of course, a bit of wine.
In Mâcon, we explored the city's picturesque streets and learned about the poet Alphonse de Lamartine, a native of the region. A visit to the Château de Pierreclos for a Mâconnais wine tasting provided a glimpse into the region's viticulture.
Tournus offered one of our trip highlights —the Château de Cormatin. Maintained by three dedicated investors who live there, the château's beautifully preserved and restored interiors (see attached picture!) and manicured gardens were a delight to explore.
We had very chilly weather for March, so as we cruised the Saône, we were finally treated to a perfect day to relax on the deck, soaking in the scenic riverbanks and the fresh air.
Chalon-sur-Saône provided a quiet interlude before our next adventure, allowing us to admire the riverside scenery. Nearby, Beaune offered a glimpse into the world of Burgundian wine, with its historic Hospices de Beaune and legendary vineyards.
The Chalonnaise wine tasting, however, stood out for us. The wines were so good that we shipped a case home—oops, more wine! As the day ended, the ship treated us to a breathtaking sunset, a perfect finale to our Burgundy and Provence adventure.
The AMACello provided the perfect balance of luxury and cultural immersion, with exceptional cuisine, gracious service, and seamless exploration.
Mariana, the cruise manager, provided information and guidance about each stop along the way and the 30-something years young (at least to us!) Captain Adam steered us flawlessly!
AMAWaterways offers different levels of activities to meet everyone's ability. Many people loved the bicycle rides offered at each stop. Cruising through these storied regions, we savored every moment, each destination adding another layer to the rich tapestry of our experience. So if you’re looking for a way to elevate your next voyage, schedule your Planning Call here. Let’s explore the ways AMAWaterways can immerse you into culture, history, and beautiful destinations.
