Cruising Down the Rhone

After leaving Vienne, we woke up to find ourselves docked in the medieval town of Tournon-sur-Rhone with the picturesque town of Tain l’Hermitage on the other shore. We are now right into the red wine region of the Rhone Valley and had the opportunity to visit a winery to sample some of their wares. The hillsides are carpeted in vineyards and there are old Roman ruins dotted on the landscape. We then had a tour of a famous French chocolate company (Valrhona) with plenty of free samples. Back to the ship, just in time for lunch and a stomach pump.

Had a tour of the bridge (on the boat) and the kitchen (galley) as we continued down the Rhone, passing under numerous bridges and through (almost as many) locks.

Arrived in Viviers and did a late evening walk through the cobblestoned old town, dating from the 11^th century. Most of the houses have internet – those Romans who built these houses were very advanced in their future-proofing.

They never let you relax on this cruise – always pestering you with something, like a meal, a cocktail, a tour or a demonstration about something. It's hard work having fun.

We cruised overnight and arrived at Arles on Friday morning, the town in Provence near the mouth of the Rhone. After lunch, we did a walking tour through the town. This lovely medieval town boasts a complete Roman Colosseum which has had modern seating added to form a complex where they now hold bull fights (without killing the bull).

Last night we sailed back upstream to Avignon, the historic town that boasts having been home to a number of popes. The papal palace is awe-inspiring.

Sue can’t believe the number of shoe shops in every town but has managed to limit her purchases to only 4 pairs (so far).

After 7 days on board, we will sadly end our cruise here in Avignon tomorrow morning (Sunday).

Even found Heinz Dijon mustard came with the Reuben sandwich



Sue waving from the window of our cabin



It's hard work, this cruising.....

Sue in the chocolate shop - as happy as a kid in a lolly shop

In the Van Gogh garden at Arles

The Roman colosseum at Arles

The bridge (or what's left of it) at Avignon

The magnificent papal palace at Avignon