We promised you more photos from our “Colors of Provence” river cruise trip. Here are a few more.
To accommodate the guests’ varied tastes and activity levels, our cruiseline company developed a menu of complimentary small-group shore excursions in every port (including biking and hiking tours) that were led by Local Guides, with Personal Audio Devices to help hear their commentary.
To accommodate guests on these tours, they offered three excursion levels wherever possible: Gentle Walkers, for those who prefer a leisurely pace or have mobility restrictions; Regular Walkers, covering their standard tour; and Active Walkers, faster paced and covering more sights. A Late Starters group was also available on select excursions for those who preferred to sleep in.
FOOTSTEPS OF ANCIENT ROMANS WALKING TOUR
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Co?tes du Rho?ne lies Vienne, with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins.
Here we followed the footsteps of the ancient Romans on a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, built in honor of Caesar Augustus, son of Julius Caesar, and his wife, Livia.
Vienne was also an important religious center in medieval times, a legacy still evident in the Saint-Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build. In addition, we visited the St. Pierre Abbey – one of the oldest surviving churches in France and now a museum.
STEAM TRAIN RIDE
We enjoyed an exciting and nostalgic steam train ride through the magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux, stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthe?lemy le Plain, where the train maneuvered in preparation for its return journey.
GRIGNAN & TRUFFLE FARM VISIT
Truffles are a highly prized delicacy sometimes referred to as “the diamond of the kitchen.” No man or machine can locate them, only specially trained dogs.
This excursion introduced guests to truffles and their revered place in French gastronomy. In addition, the visit to the truffle farm was a unique experience – going out into the orchard with your host to observe the truffle-hunting dogs.
Then there was a visit to the magnificent town of Grignan to see a Renaissance cha?teau perched on a hill surrounded by lavender fields. The village of Grignan is typically Provencal, with red-tiled roofs, tree-lined winding streets, open-air cafes, and colorful markets.
Tillie and Joe James
Tillie James Travel LLC
804.997.9460 | info@tilliejamestravel.com
