A Cruise Along the Rhône

We’re off for an unforgettable Rhône cruise! For those who are lucky enough to rent a boat, the bewitching city of Orange is an essential first stop. In the “City of Princes«  those versed in history are kings. In front of the imposing Arc de Triomphe  and at the Théâtre Antique, both registered UNESCO World Heritage sites, you will feel the full force of the ancient past of the city. Then go to the Château Maucoil, located between Orange’s city centre and the banks of the Rhône, to taste the estate’s fine wines. Certified organically grown, its AOC Côtes-du-Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape will delight the most refined palates.

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After the City of Princes, behold the City of Popes! Want a cultural break in Avignon? Take a trip to the Musée Angladon. Its prestigious paintings by Degas, Van Gogh, Picasso and Modigliani are emotionally rich. Travelling with your family? Visit the bustling Marché des Halles to fill up on local specialities. If you’re more in the mood for sports, head to Barthelasse Island on a kayak, for a trip on the Rhône followed by a picnic. Don’t leave the city without visiting the Palais des Papes and dropping by the famous Pont d’Avignon, the Saint-Bénézet bridge. Stretch your excursion to Tarascon, a lovely mediaeval city at the edge of the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles. Finally, don’t miss the legendary village of Baux de Provence​​​​, its castle and its fabulous Carrières de Lumières.

Next stop: Arles! Drop anchor at the Musée Départmental de l’Arles Antique to find out about the treasures of the Roman era. You will also learn the origin of the city’s emblem, the lion. Then, head to the Amphitheatre, where legendary gladiatorial combats took place. Close your eyes and imagine the clashing of swords and the cries of the crowd resonating in the arena’s stands. Return to peace and quiet with a visit to the Fondation Luma, a cultural institution at the center of Arles’ contemporary art scene. For a historical outing with your family, visit the Abbaye de Montmajour, an exceptional building which fascinated and inspired Van Gogh.

Change of scene. In the Camargue, your Rhônecruise meanders along the wildest banks, where marshes and rice fields combine. The Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue is home to an exceptional biodiversity – the pink flamingoes are the most famous ambassadors. Go to the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau to watch them. In winter, you will witness the mating dance of the males – a unique choreography! In summer, book a Camargue evening at the Manade Saint-Louis in Montcalm, where a delicious dinner and show awaits you to the beat of gypsy guitars. The Greoul family will teach you about the gardians (herdsmen), revealing all the secrets of the culture of the Camargue.

You are now at the gateway to the Mediterranean, in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. Enjoy a table with a magnificent view of the sea at Le Passe Port restaurant. Scallops, mussels and other seafood specialities will be cooked before your eyes. Want a bit of farniente? Stroll along the fine sand of the Plage Napoleon. If you prefer action, get the wind in your sails with a kitesurf session at the Mistral Kite Passion School. Or, head to Martigues on the Côte Bleu. Nicknamed the “Provençal Venice » it also offers a lot of nautical activities. Diving, kayak, windsurfing – you get to choose your thrills!