Cruising is a unique way to travel, allowing you to explore multiple destinations while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a floating hotel. When I decided to take a cruise along the Rhone and Saone rivers in France, I had high expectations, but little did I know that I was about to embark on one of the most memorable journeys of my life. My chosen cruise line was the MS Lord Byron, which promised an intimate and luxurious experience as we sailed through the picturesque landscapes of Southern France.
As I boarded the ship, I was greeted with warm smiles from the crew and the elegant interiors of the ship immediately caught my eye. With only 132 passengers on board, the atmosphere was intimate and welcoming. The itinerary included stops at Lyon, Avignon, Arles, and many other charming towns and villages along the way. As I settled into my cabin, I knew that this was going to be an unforgettable journey. And indeed it was – from the delicious cuisine to the breathtaking sights, every aspect of the cruise exceeded my expectations. Join me as I share my experience on the MS Lord Byron cruise along the Rhone and Saone.
1. Setting Sail: Exploring the Ship and Its Amenities
The Elegant Interiors of the MS Lord Byron
The moment I stepped onto the MS Lord Byron, I could tell that I was in for a luxurious experience. The ship is decorated in classic and elegant tones, featuring wood paneling, plush furnishings, and intricate details in every corner. The main lobby boasts a grand staircase, a stunning chandelier, and a cozy seating area where guests can mingle over a cup of coffee or tea.
Cabins Designed for Comfort and Relaxation
My cabin on the MS Lord Byron was a haven of comfort and luxury. The spacious room featured a comfortable bed, a sitting area with a small table, and a large window that provided stunning views of the passing landscapes. The cabin was equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and ample storage space. The bathroom was also well-designed with a shower, high-quality toiletries, and soft towels.
Dining Options on Board
One of the highlights of my cruise experience on the MS Lord Byron was the delectable cuisine served on board. The ship has two main dining areas – the elegant restaurant where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served, and the casual lounge that offers light meals and snacks throughout the day. For breakfast and lunch, there is a buffet-style spread with a variety of dishes to choose from, while dinner is a sit-down affair with a set menu featuring regional specialties and international favorites. The food was always fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, making every meal a delightful experience.
Other On-Board Amenities and Activities
Apart from the elegant interiors, comfortable cabins, and delicious dining options, the MS Lord Byron also offers a range of other amenities and activities to keep guests entertained. The sun deck, with its comfortable loungers and shaded seating areas, is the perfect spot to soak up some sun or enjoy an alfresco meal. The ship also has a small fitness center, a beauty salon, and a library for those who prefer to relax with a book. Additionally, there were daily activities such as wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music performances, ensuring that there was never a dull moment on board.
2. Exploring the Gems of Southern France: Stops Along the Way
Lyon – The Gastronomic Capital of France
The first stop on our cruise was the city of Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France. Our ship docked right in the heart of the city, allowing us to easily explore its many charms. We started with a walking tour of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we admired the impressive architecture, quaint squares, and bustling markets. Our guide also took us to explore some of Lyon’s famous traboules – secret passageways that connect buildings and courtyards, providing a unique perspective on the city.
After our walking tour, we headed back to the ship for lunch before joining an excursion to Beaujolais, a famous wine-producing region just outside of Lyon. The scenic drive through rolling hills and picturesque villages was a treat in itself, but the highlight of the day was the wine tasting at a local winery. We sampled some exquisite wines, learned about the production process, and even got to bring back a few bottles as souvenirs. Back on the ship, we were treated to a delicious dinner featuring some of the regional specialties we had tried earlier in the day.
Avignon – A Charming Medieval City
Our next stop was the enchanting city of Avignon, situated on the banks of the Rhone River. The main attraction here is the Palais des Popes, a medieval fortress that served as the residence of the popes in the 14th century. We explored this imposing structure with a knowledgeable guide who shared fascinating stories about its history and architectural features. Afterward, we strolled through the charming streets of Avignon, admiring the colorful buildings, street performers, and local markets.
In the evening, we had the option to attend a performance of traditional music at the Palace of the Popes or join a special dinner excursion to the village of Grignan. I chose the latter and was delighted by the charming atmosphere of this small Provençal village. We dined at a local restaurant, savoring dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, while enjoying live music and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Arles – Van Gogh’s Inspiration
As our ship sailed towards Arles, we were treated to some of the most picturesque views of the Rhone River. This charming town is known for its association with the famous artist, Vincent Van Gogh, who painted some of his most famous works here. We explored the town on foot, following in Van Gogh’s footsteps as our guide pointed out the spots where he created his masterpieces. We also visited the Roman Amphitheatre, a well-preserved structure that dates back to the 1st century AD.
In the afternoon, we had the option to join an excursion to the ancient city of Les Baux-de-Provence, perched atop a rocky hill and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The highlight of this visit was the Carrières de Lumières, a unique art space where multimedia projections bring famous artworks to life. It was a mesmerizing experience that left us all in awe.
Other Stops Along the Way
Apart from these three main stops, we also made several other stops along the way, each offering a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and cuisine of Southern France. Some of the notable ones include Viviers, a charming medieval village; Tournon-sur-Rhône, famous for its wine production; and Vienne, home to many well-preserved Roman ruins. Each stop was carefully chosen to showcase the best of the region, and the guided tours provided by the cruise line were informative and enjoyable.
3. Onboard Entertainment: Live Music, Wine Tasting, and More
One of the things I loved about my cruise on the MS Lord Byron was the variety of onboard entertainment offered. Every evening, after dinner, there was live music in the lounge, providing the perfect soundtrack to end the day. We were also treated to a special performance of traditional French music one evening, which was a lovely addition to the already enjoyable entertainment.
Another highlight of the cruise was the wine tastings that were organized daily. Each day, we had the opportunity to sample wines from different regions, accompanied by informative talks about the wines and their production. It was a great way to learn more about French wines and to discover some new favorites.
4. Sailing Along the Rhone and Saone: Witnessing the Stunning Scenery
Cruising along the Rhone and Saone rivers provided breathtaking views of the French countryside. The landscapes changed as we sailed through different regions – from rolling hills covered in vineyards to charming villages perched on the banks of the river. The ship’s sun deck was the perfect spot to take in these stunning views, whether it was basking in the sun or enjoying an alfresco meal. As we sailed towards Lyon, we also went through some impressive locks, which was an exciting experience for all of us on board.
5. The Crew: Going Above and Beyond to Make Our Journey Memorable
I cannot speak highly enough of the amazing crew on the MS Lord Byron. From the friendly waitstaff in the restaurant to the housekeeping team who ensured our cabins were always clean and comfortable, everyone went above and beyond to make our journey memorable. The cruise director was knowledgeable and attentive, making sure that all guests were well informed about the daily activities and excursions. The ship’s captain was also very personable, chatting with passengers and providing interesting insights into the areas we were sailing through.
6. Conclusion: A Cruise Experience Like No Other
In conclusion, my cruise on the MS Lord Byron along the Rhone and Saone was a truly unforgettable experience. From the luxurious amenities and delicious cuisine to the fascinating stops and onboard entertainment, everything was carefully planned and executed to perfection. It was a journey that exceeded all my expectations and one that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a unique and luxurious way to travel through Southern France. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful region, I suggest considering a cruise along the Rhone and Saone rivers on board the MS Lord Byron – you won’t regret it!
