A Celebration of Wine & Romance: Our "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" Group Cruise
- Michelle Cypher
- Jul 18
- 5 min read
A Celebration of Wine & Romance
Our "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" Group Cruise
At Travel There and Back, Michael and I are driven by a passion to uncover the world's most authentic and enriching experiences. We believe in sharing these journeys, not just designing them. That's why, in November 2024, we had the immense pleasure of escorting a wonderful group of our clients on AmaWaterways' enchanting "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" river cruise through France. This voyage perfectly embodied our 'Taking Dreams and Returning Memories' ethos, offering an unparalleled blend of vineyard-draped landscapes, ancient Roman history, artistic inspiration, and, of course, a culinary journey that tantalized every palate.
As a wine-focused cruise, this itinerary was particularly special, allowing us to delve even deeper into the region's rich viticultural heritage alongside our group. Traveling in November, as autumn was in its final, glorious flourish, added a unique charm, painting the vineyards in hues of gold and crimson. It was an absolute joy to watch our clients discover the magic of this region with us.
Our AmaCello Home: A Floating French Retreat
Stepping aboard the AmaCello, our comfortable and luxurious home for the week, the ship immediately felt like a serene retreat. Michael and I, along with our group of clients, particularly appreciated the elegant decor, the attentive service, and the intimate atmosphere that allowed everyone to relax and savor each moment. Every meal was a culinary delight, from hearty breakfasts to multi-course dinners paired beautifully with regional wines, showcasing why AmaWaterways is so highly regarded for its gastronomy. The wine pairings were particularly insightful, enhancing our and our clients' appreciation for the regional varietals.
The Graceful Glide: Locks of the Saône and Rhône
While not as dramatic as the Iron Gate, the locks on the Saône and Rhône rivers are an equally fascinating part of the cruise experience. These engineering feats allow for smooth passage between different water levels, and Michael and I, along with our clients, loved watching the precision with which the ship would enter, the gates would close, and the water would gently rise or fall. It's a quiet, mesmerizing process that underscores the seamless nature of river travel, effortlessly transporting you from one picturesque scene to the next.
Become a River Cruise Insider!
Does the thought of savoring French wines and exploring ancient villages appeal to your wanderlust? Are you considering a special group trip for your friends or family? Join our "Travel There and Back River Cruise Insider" list! You'll receive exclusive insights, early access to new French itineraries, and special offers on the world's most luxurious and culturally rich river cruises.
A Feast for the Senses: Unveiling Burgundy & Provence
This journey is truly a movable feast, both literally and figuratively. Beginning our cruise in Arles, a city famously inspired by Vincent van Gogh, we immediately felt immersed in the heart of French culture. Walking through its Roman amphitheater and exploring the very streets and cafes that inspired some of his most famous paintings was a powerful and moving experience for our group. It truly brought his art to life.
As we sailed north, each stop offered its own unique charm, a new layer to uncover with our clients:
Avignon: City of Popes: The grandeur of Avignon, with its immense Papal Palace and the iconic Pont d'Avignon, left us all awe-struck. We explored the palace's vast halls and learned about its powerful history as the seat of the Catholic Church. The vibrant energy of the city's squares and markets was palpable.
Viviers: A Medieval Fairytale: This tiny, incredibly preserved medieval town truly enchanted our group. Its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings felt like stepping into a fairytale. The optional "Ghost Walk" or local truffle hunting excursions offer unique flavors of this charming Provençal gem.
Vienne's Roman Legacy: Stepping into Vienne felt like traveling back to Roman times. The impressively preserved Roman theater and Temple of Augustus and Livia were a testament to the region's ancient past, offering a fascinating contrast to the medieval and Renaissance towns.
Lyon: France's Culinary Capital: The highlight for any food lover, Lyon truly lives up to its reputation. Michael and I, along with our clients, reveled in exploring its historic Old Town (a UNESCO site), with its unique "traboules" (secret passageways). We indulged in traditional Lyonnaise bouchons, understanding why this city holds such a revered place in French gastronomy. The views from Fourvière Hill were simply spectacular.
Burgundy's Charms: We concluded our exploration in the heart of Burgundy, a region synonymous with some of the world's finest wines. Stops like Chalon-sur-Saône offered a deep dive into its medieval past, while excursions often included tasting experiences in the famed Côte d'Or vineyards around Beaune, where we admired the stunning mosaic roof of the Hospices de Beaune. We savored the rich history and even richer flavors of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The wine tastings were, of course, a highlight for our client couples, and we were all impressed by the depth of knowledge shared by the local experts.
Traveling in November meant we enjoyed a quieter, more intimate experience. The crowds had thinned, allowing us to delve deeper into each destination, and the crisp autumn air, combined with the changing leaves in the vineyards, added an incredible depth of beauty to every vista. The focus on wine throughout the cruise made it an especially memorable journey for us and our clients.
Your French Dream, Curated by Us
Our personal "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" cruise, escorting our valued client group, was an invaluable experience. It profoundly deepened our already extensive knowledge of France and its incredible river cruise offerings, especially in the realm of wine and culinary travel. Because Michael and I have personally savored the wines, explored the historic sites, and felt the romance of these regions – while expertly guiding our clients – we are uniquely positioned to craft your perfect French river cruise, whether it's a romantic getaway or a meticulously planned group adventure.
At Travel There and Back, we don't just book trips; we design journeys that touch the soul. We understand that your travel is about Taking Dreams and Returning Memories. Let us guide you to your own unforgettable adventure through the heart of France.
Ready to embark on your own magnificent French river cruise?
Schedule a call with me, Michelle, to discuss your personalized river cruise, or visit our dedicated River Cruise webpage to explore more options.
Who Am I
I'm your guide to unforgettable European voyages, curated for wine connoisseurs, food enthusiasts, golfers and culture aficionados, ensuring each journey is a masterpiece of taste, history, and connection.
Michelle Wicks Cypher
425-361-5212
Comments