Rhône River Cruise
The majestic River Rhône has its source in the glaciers above Valais in Switzerland. From here, it takes a short route to Lake Geneva (
Lac Leman) from where it builds into a formidable force that meanders its way to Lyon, before teaming up with the Saône to push its way directly south towards the Mediterranean where its final act is to form the stunning Camargue Delta. Before Lyon, it is fast flowing and more akin to a mountain river but, once calmed by the flatter landscape of southern France, it is a gargantuan body of water that has, over several million years, carved out the wide and fertile Rhône Valley to create one of the most beautiful regions in the whole of France.
Many Rhône cruises combine with the Saône to allow navigation north of Lyon into Burgundy and as far as Chalon sur Saône. Thus, over a relatively short cruise, one is treated to an ever-changing landscape as Burgundy gives way to the delights of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards before succombing to the stunning beauty of Provence, passing en route Lyon, Vienne, Tournon, Avignon, Arles and Martigues.
Rhône river cruises
Of course, it is impossible to ignore the Rhône's connection with the vine and all VFB Rhône cruises feature a variety of excursions linked to the great ambassadors that are its AOCs. However, those in search of a stronger wine theme should look no further than our
6-day wine lover's cruise where the agenda is firmly on the vine and our cruise accompanied by a top
sommelier. Where there's wine, there's usually food and gastronomy features highly too - after all, Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France. The beautiful city is the starting point for a superb
4-day gastronomic cruise along the Saône, heading north from the Rhône, that introduces us to some of the finest cuisine in the world and which includes a visit to the restaurant run by Paul Bocuse, Lyon's greatest culinary master.
It is in the summer months that Provence reaches its pinnacle. Long days and balmy nights combine to make for a perfect holiday afloat, especially with fully air-conditioned boats. Music lovers should join VFB's cruise on the Rhône to celebrate the famous classical music and opera festivals held in Provence and included in
VFB's Summer Festival River Cruise.
Whatever you're looking for, a river cruise on the Rhône provides the perfect way of discovering this beautiful region of France from a totally different perspective. Discover our selection of Rhône cruises and Saône cruises below. Alternatively,
see our entire selection of River cruises.