Unveiling the Allure of Europe: City Bike Tours, Beekeeping Museums, and Architectural Marvels Await.
In this era of meticulously planned travel, indulging in newfound wonders has become a true luxury. While we certainly appreciate the art of relaxation and unwinding – especially after the tumultuous past two years – there’s something captivating about embracing the allure of the unknown. Imagine embarking on a river cruise where panoramic European cityscapes unfold before your eyes through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Envision culinary escapades, wine tastings, and a plethora of captivating architectural marvels at every port. Recognizing the evolving desires of travelers in a post-pandemic world, esteemed river cruise leaders like Avalon Waterways have curated an array of exhilarating and immersive itineraries and excursions. Join us as we highlight a selection of our favorite experiences for this summer and autumn, promising unforgettable adventures.
.
Embrace the Journey: Avalon Waterways Unveils the Charms of the Seine.
Albert Einstein once said, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” This sentiment resonates deeply with the spirit of Avalon Waterways, where unforgettable experiences await those who embark on their Seine river cruises. Spanning 9 or 11 days, these enchanting French adventures, enhanced by overnight stays in the captivating city of Paris, offer a seamless immersion into the very fabric of French culture.
Feel the rhythm of Paris as you pedal through its picturesque streets on a guided bike tour, or surrender to your sweet cravings during a delightful pastry demonstration, allowing you to savor the essence of the French capital at your own pace. Embark on a westward voyage, paying homage to the revered Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO-protected holy-island abbey, and delve into an architectural exploration of Le Havre, with its remarkable post-World War II reinforced concrete creations by Auguste Perret.
Lori Berberian Pelentay, a knowledgeable Virtuoso travel advisor, extols the virtues of Normandy, a region often overlooked, despite its white cliffs, lush forests, and historic beaches. Delve into its medieval history and tranquil beauty alongside experienced guides who provide local context, allowing you to truly grasp the magnitude of the events that unfolded there in 1944 and beyond. Pelentay describes the experience as “awe-inspiring,” as you perceive the profound impact through the eyes of those intimately connected to the region.
Nestled midway between Paris and the English Channel, you’ll discover Les Andelys, a charming village that straddles the Seine. Embark on a guided hike to the illustrious Château Gaillard, the historic residence of King Richard the Lionheart, boasting regal river vistas. The undulating limestone facade, an architectural marvel of the late twelfth century, continues to command admiration. Immerse yourself further in history as you meander down to the Gothic Saint-Sauveur’s Church of Le Petit Andely, a timeless testament to human craftsmanship that stood for over eight centuries.
Avalon Waterways invites you to embrace this unforgettable journey, where the beauty of the Seine unfolds before your eyes, leaving indelible memories and a profound sense of wonder.
Embrace the Rhine’s Enchanting Charm.
For countless centuries, Germany has captivated the minds of poets, philosophers, and scholars who found solace in the meandering paths of the Philosophenweg, the legendary “philosophers’ walk.” Now, you too can follow in their footsteps as you embark on a journey through Heidelberg, a historic university city in southwest Germany, dating back to the fifth century. Allow the city’s rich heritage to envelop you or join a German beer sommelier for a leisurely stroll through the serene gardens of Heidelberg Castle. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and let the rust-colored ruins inspire your poetic musings, just as they did for the esteemed Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Witness the captivating journey from grapes to glass as you accompany a local winemaker, unraveling the secrets of their craft.
Avalon Waterways invites you to experience the culinary wonders of Düsseldorf, a city renowned for its exceptional dining scene, boasting ten Michelin-starred restaurants. This gastronomic exploration will take you on a delightful culinary tour through the vibrant heart of the city, allowing you to taste the diverse flavors that go beyond traditional schnitzels and beer. Wine enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to savor the distinctive notes of gewürztraminer and pinot noir at Badischer Winzerkeller, Europe’s largest German wine producer. As recalled by Pentelay, “We witnessed the entire winemaking process, from grape cultivation and harvesting to the meticulously crafted barrels and bottling. The winemakers’ passion and pride in their creations were truly evident.”
Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting allure of the Rhine, where Avalon Waterways promises a journey that delights the senses and leaves an indelible mark upon your soul.
Unveiling the Splendor of the Balkans: Belogradchik Rocks and Beyond.
Avalon Waterways beckons you to embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of the Balkans, where the Danube River seamlessly connects Europe’s most captivating cities, offering a refreshing escape from the well-trodden tourist paths. Begin your adventure in Bucharest, a city where remnants of Romania’s Communist architecture intertwine with the elegant influences of the belle époque era. From Oltenița, Romania, set sail towards western Bulgaria, pausing along the way to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Belogradchik Rocks. These magnificent red and yellow sandstone peaks, shaped by tectonic movements over 200 million years ago, have inspired countless legends and myths throughout the ages.
As you descend from the majestic Balkan Mountains, you’ll arrive in Novi Sad, Serbia, where a hidden labyrinth of catacombs sprawls beneath the charming cobblestone streets. Delve into the secrets of this four-story underground network, and marvel at the seventeenth-century Petrovaradin Fortress, known as “the Gibraltar on the Danube” for its formidable defense of the Habsburg empire. Take note of the unusual clock tower, where the little hand indicates the minutes, while the larger one counts the hours, offering a unique twist on timekeeping. Indulge your taste buds in the afternoon by sampling local honey at the Živanović Museum, an immersive experience that showcases centuries of Serbian beekeeping and winemaking traditions, blending age-old customs with modern techniques.
Whether your heart skips a beat while cycling along scenic routes, strolling through historic streets, or simply immersing yourself in moments of awe, these captivating shore excursions promise to leave an indelible impression. Avalon Waterways invites you to explore the hidden treasures of the Balkans, where sandstone wonders, cultural delights, and unforgettable encounters await.