Go with the glow on the river of gold
EXCITING, enlightening and more than a little indulgent, river cruising is a relaxing way to explore some of the world’s richest cultures, bringing fascinating sights and insights around every bend.
Meandering into the heart of the old Habsburg empire on the Danube, or drifting through the world’s oldest wine region in Portugal, makes for days filled with new discoveries and everchanging views.
Evenings reveal towns illuminated by twinkling lights and usher in relaxed entertainment, spirited dining, freeflowing drinks and conversation.
It’s a rewarding way to explore, as the experiences keep flowing and great memories are built. And it all takes place in considerable comfort on board a warm and welcoming river ship, which is like a floating boutique hotel and where the emphasis is on comfort, excellent service and space.
With fewer than 200 passengers on board, the atmosphere is friendly and informal, whether you are lounging on the sundeck or chatting in the lounge.
River-view staterooms often contain a sumptuous king-size bed that can be configured into twins, a flatscreen TV with movies on demand, a hairdryer, safe and walk-in shower. And, remarkably, so much else is included. Viking River Cruises, for example, will whisk you on scheduled flights from a choice of up to 14 regional airports, all within the price. (There’s a no-fly Eurostar option, too.)
Meals, including a delicious daily four- or five-course dinner served in the elegant restaurant, or on the terrace against the shimmering backdrop of the river, are all part of the package. There’s even free-flowing wine and beer offered with lunch and dinner, as well as free tea and coffee at any time.
But while the cruise line’s delicious cuisine is all dressed up, you don’t have to be – smart casual dress works fine.
Complimentary wi-fi means friends and family can keep in touch with your journey. Entertaining talks, brilliant cooking demonstrations and dance performances help to bring destinations to life. And, what’s more, there are free excursions led by expert guides almost every day, including visits to World Heritage sites and unique cultural experiences, such as private recitals or a visit to a family home to see how local dishes are made.
With your own state-of-the-art headphones, you can wander at your own pace during walking tours and not miss a word. Alternatively, explore at will, with all the maps and information you need to make your own wonderful discoveries.
Both on board and on shore, you
TIMELESS DOURO
SAIL with just 106 guests in a smaller ship on the timeless Douro, Portugal’s river of gold, through an ancient land of whitewashed farmhouses and tiny villages clustered around historic churches, monasteries and castles.
River cruising here reveals baroque palaces, tranquil landscapes with vineyards stacked up the hillsides on narrow terraces, and rabelo boats heavily laden with casks of port wine.
In Porto’s historic, Unesco-listed centre, graceful bridges and baroque cathedrals are set among narrow cobbled streets. Indulge in some port wine tasting – and in the evening, why not dine at a monastery or enjoy a traditional fado concert. In Salamanca, you can even watch a flamenco performance over lunch.
ROMANTIC DANUBE
THE blue Danube flows alongside cities of splendour and landscapes of astonishing beauty, with echoes of history around every corner. Look down on Budapest from Castle Hill, sail through Austria’s peaceful Wachau Valley, or visit Mozart’s house before sitting down to a concert in a grand Viennese palace.
A journey along the romantic Danube brings so much to fall in love with.
Viking River Cruises offers cruises on many other European, Asian and Russian rivers, and the company has a fleet of more than 60 river ships. An eight-day, 2018 Romantic Danube river cruise starts from just £895, so exploring with Viking can be exceptional value for money.
Isn’t it time you experienced some of the world’s great cultures from a captivating new angle – aboard a beautiful river ship?