Relax in Rhine style as castles drift past
KICKING back on the sundeck sun of a Rhine river ship, with a glass of Riesling in hand and a welcome breeze gently ruffling your hair, has to be the perfect way to spend a summer week or so.
Today’s luxurious river ships slice a placid path through sublime Rhineland scenery, dotted with fairytale castles, lush vineyards, half-timbered towns and rainbow-hued villages — an everchanging succession of picture-book views that drift deliciously by.
And enjoying relaxing downtime on board taking in the delightful view is only one part of the pleasure.
Each day is enriched by guided coach and walking excursions, providing an insightful ride through Germany’s cultural treasures, as the ship moors in the very heart of picturesque cities and towns, while touching Holland, France and Switzerland along the way.
In fact, a Rhine cruise is like a string of rewarding city breaks, but without the hassles of getting from A to B.
On the best cruises, such as those offered by Avalon Waterways, guided explorations ashore are included in the price (along with flights, food and many drinks, wi-fi, gratuities, VIP entry to must-see sites and more).
So you won’t have to worry about additional costs.
And all the while you’ll be transported along on a fabulous floating hotel, typically carrying up to 166 passengers in some considerable style, where muted colours combine with exceptional design — and every detail from fine food to fluffy towels is taken care of.
In Avalon’s spacious staterooms, floor-to-ceiling windows open to create a private balcony, offering an enchanting view over the sparkling water as the ship glides past quaint Rhineland villages, castle ruins and lofty cliffs, as once painted by Turner.
On these award-winning, all-suite ships, which specialise in relaxed and refined casual luxury without any stuffy nonsense, the supremely comfortable beds face the river, so you’ll have a perfect view of the everchanging landscape.
Guests are treated to outstanding cuisine, with regional a la carte menus that include a range of healthy, mouthwatering dishes.
And with one highly trained member of staff to every three guests, you will feel supremely well looked after.
You’ll even have a private home pick-up service (within 100 miles) to get your holiday off to a flying start.