A RHINE time
Wend your way through the heart of Europe on a captivating river cruise
SPRINGING from a lake in the Swiss Alps, the Rhine carves a path through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes as it makes its way through France and Germany towards the North Sea: from fairytale castles and medieval villages to ancient vineyards and cosmopolitan cities, its banks are dotted with surprises at every turn, and, as such, provide a thrilling backdrop to a river cruise.
It’s not hard to see why a tranquil passage along this scenic waterway has become a much-loved means of exploring this part of the Continent, winding through deep gorges and lush pastures as you are transported serenely from one captivating destination to the next.
Take, for example, the pretty town of Basel, the Gothic cathedral of which houses the tomb of 16th-century scholar Erasmus, amid an array of historic museums, theatres and charming streets. Nestling at the point where Switzerland, Germany and France converge, it’s a cultural melting pot, and a fascinating starting point for your journey of discovery as you head on to the Black Forest, its picturesque Bavarian villages brimming with half-timbered houses.
Docking in Strasbourg offers a wealth of ways to spend your time on land, from a trip to Alsace wine country to a leisurely afternoon in the city’s many museums or exploring the beguiling La Petite France district. As you cruise overnight to Ludwigshafen, the ruins of the Renaissance Heidelberg Castle, high above the city, are a must-see, but those of a more adventurous bent can take an escorted hike up the Philosopher’s Way for striking scenes of the city below.
BEWITCHING
THE Mechanical Music Museum in Rüdesheim is a little-known gem but offers intriguing insight into historical melody-making, or you could take a guided vineyard hike before taking in the surrounding scenery from a cable car, then rejoining your ship and sailing on towards the renowned Rhine Gorge and to Koblenz. It’s worth ensuring you’re on the sundeck to absorb the dramatic panoramas unfolding around you, which have inspired poets, composers and artists over centuries.
Marvel at the 132m-high Lorelei Rock, which produces an echo and, according to legend, was associated with a beautiful maiden who threw herself into the river when her heart was broken by an unfaithful lover. The Rhine waters are said to have transformed her into a bewitching siren who lured fisherman to their death on the surrounding banks.
Cologne, long considered the capital of the Rhinelands, is dominated by a soaring twin-towered cathedral, but there’s plenty more to discover, including a historic Jewish quarter and, of course, locally brewed pale lager.
Most Rhine cruises conclude (or begin) in Amsterdam, with its network of canals, striking architecture and plethora of galleries and museums. There’s plenty to see in the city, but, during tulip season, you might be tempted to visit Keukenhof Gardens, to witness the spectacle of more than seven million flowers – including hyacinths, daffodils and narcissus in bloom.
>> THE CRUISE: Avalon Cruises offers An eight-day romantic RHINE cruise, From BAsEl to amsterdam, From £1,690pp, avaloncruises.co.uk
You are transported serenely through deep gorges