Journeys stopping off in Arles

A voyage along the Rhone has to be one of the most scenic river journeys in Europe, as the river carves its way through the countryside of the Rhone-Alpes and Provence regions to the Camargue and its marshy delta.

Medieval villages and craggy castles cling to the hillsides, while vineyards and swathes of purple lavender stretch away into the distance. Cultural attractions are plentiful; the Romans have left their mark here in the magnificent amphitheatre at Arles and the stunning Pont du Gard. This is a river cruise for adventurers, too, with hiking, cycling and kayaking on offer.

All Rhone cruises call at magnificent Avignon, famous for its bridge and for the 700-year-old Palace of the Popes, epicentre of the medieval Christian world. Another highlight is the Roman city of Arles, gateway to the wild, marshy Camargue, famed for its cowboys, its bulls and white horses. The light here inspired Van Gogh to create more than 200 paintings and it’s easy to see why.