MEANDERING MEMORIES
A river cruise is a wonderful way to discover Europe’s stunning landscapes and cities, as you meander along its waterways – now with more choice than ever
When you book a European river cruise, you’ll see some of the continent’s most spectacular scenery
CONTINENTAL Europe is streaked with ribbons of beautiful waterways, wending their way from dramatic mountain landscapes towards the coast. All over the world, rivers have proved to be our lifeblood, providing not only the water needed for survival, but offering the possibility of transporting people and produce. Thus, along the banks of the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and more lie picturesque villages, medieval castles, bustling towns and some of the world’s great cities, brimming with history, culture and cosmopolitan life.
So many of us have promised ourselves city breaks in the likes of Budapest, Vienna, Lyon and more, but the reality of deciding where to visit when you have a weekend or few days available, and organising such trips, can be more challenging. Imagine, then, the possibility of weaving a holiday together that includes the chance to explore renowned museums and iconic landmarks in some of these wonderful destinations. No need to keep packing and unpacking as you check in and out of various rooms, and no need to organise endless transfers: simply settle into a spacious cabin on one of the modern, luxurious river ships that ply Europe’s waterways, and soak up the diverse delights of your chosen itinerary – and there’s a holiday to suit everyone, from culture vultures and history lovers to oenophiles and gourmands…
When you book a European river cruise, you’ll see some of the continent’s most spectacular scenery, as you meander past dramatic gorges, charming orchards, ancient vineyards, unspoiled farmland and dense forests, dotted with historic churches, monasteries and fairytale castles. Many ships even have a number of bicycles on board for guests to borrow and use to explore destinations, or cycle alongside the river and join the ship at its next stop. And, there’s nothing quite like relaxing, cocktail in hand, on the sundeck of your ship, perhaps enjoying the delights of the hot tub after a day sightseeing, as you glide through tranquil waters with panoramic vistas of breathtaking landscapes. Unless, of course, you count sitting down to a delicious, freshly prepared breakfast or a gourmet dinner accompanied by paired wines, against an ever-changing scenic backdrop.
FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES
WITH A well-deserved reputation for creating a welcoming, relaxed, home-from-home atmosphere on their ocean cruises, Fred. Olsen are hoping to repeat that experience now they are tapping into the growing popularity of river cruising, with their debut collection of European itineraries for summer 2018. With durations ranging from five to 25 nights, guests can choose to sail the breathtaking Danube, taking in the major cities and wildlife-rich Danube Delta; savour the highlights of the heart of Europe, along the twists and turns of the Moselle, Rhine and Main valleys; or enjoy a ‘taster’ cruise to Amsterdam, when the tulips are in full bloom. Chargeable excursions are bookable on all itineraries, giving guests the flexibility to choose their own agenda. Fred. Olsen has also incorporated a large amount of scenic cruising in daylight hours into its new river cruise itineraries, so that guests can make the most of the spectacular scenery on offer at the best time of the day. Sailing on the Brabant, which features fewer than 80 rooms and suites across three decks, you’ll be attended to by a 40-strong crew who will do their utmost to ensure your experience is intimate and memorable. In keeping with Fred. Olsen’s ocean-going fleet, this smaller-scaled vessel has the style, atmosphere and elegance of a country-house hotel.
EMERALD WATERWAYS
WITH its fleet of stylish Star-Ships, Emerald Waterways marries exemplary service and classic hospitality with modern, boutique-style accommodation on its European river cruises. From multi-sensory shower units and an evening cinema to an on-board putting green and (on most ships) and a heated indoor pool with retractable roof, an Emerald Waterways river cruise is as much about relaxing and enjoying your time on board – with a comprehensive ‘all-inclusive promise’ – as about seeing a range of captivating destinations.
And, for 2018, there’s a trio of new itineraries, including a charming eight-day cruise along the Rhine, Main and Moselle between Amsterdam and Frankfurt, including such sights as the Andernach Geyser and the Roman archeological park at Xanten.
Or how about a circular trip taking in the charms of Holland and Belgium, setting off from Amsterdam, before setting sail for the Netherlands’ oldest city, Dordecht, and a visit to the 18th-century Kinderdijk windmills? You’ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning city of Antwerp or book an excursion to the medieval town of Bruges before discovering Maastricht, Arnhem and Hoorn as you make your way back to Amsterdam to fly home.
If you’d prefer to see more of southern Europe, fly to Frankfurt and
join your Star-Ship in Mainz, before setting sail along the Rhine to see medieval villages, fairytale castles and enjoying the chance to visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim, or do a canal tour in Strasbourg before completing your eight-day cruise in Basel.
AVALON WATERWAYS
IF YOU’VE been tempted by the idea of a holiday on one of Europe’s rivers, Avalon Cruises has put together some great late offers on selected itineraries this summer and autumn. Discover the delights of the Danube, with the chance to explore Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Nuremberg and more, take a romantic cruise along the Rhine from Zurich to Amsterdam or meander through France from Paris to the Côte d’Azur.
One of the leading river cruise operators, Avalon Waterways boasts impressive suite-styled staterooms which feature wall-to-wall panoramic windows to transform the entire space into an open-air balcony.
With a ratio of one member of staff to every three guests, service is attentive and highly personalised, with luxury touches such as fluffy bath robes and complimentary L’Occitane toiletries in your full-size bathroom. Each package includes return flights from the UK, full-board à la carte dining with wine and beer included with lunch and dinner, all on-board gratuities, free Wi-Fi and daily sightseeing excursions with expert local guides. You’ll also have the option to book* a private home pick-up service to and from the airport within a 100-mile radius of your departure airport. *£ 100 charge applies