Sail the iconic rivers of Europe in style
Rhine River Flowing from the Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine has long been a major trade route and is considered pivotal in the industrialisation of Europe.
The rivers of Europe have long been the lifeblood of the communities that call them home. As they weave their way through the continent, they connect cities and landscapes with an allure simply unachievable with any other mode of transport.
■ The source of the Rhine is in Switzerland’s Lake Toma, situated 2,340 metres above sea level. ■ The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge is approximately a 40-mile river valley stretching between Koblenz and Bingen in Germany. Exemplifying Mother Nature’s spectacular feats, vineyards and fairytale castles dot the green landscape.
Our collection of itineraries along the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Rhône, Saône and Douro, offer an insight into the history, culture and tradition of each magnificent waterway, during thoughtfully crafted adventures designed by our expert journey planners. What were once integral trade routes are now gateways to cultural enlightenment, to be navigated in style on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.
Moselle River
Rhône River Beginning its journey in the Swiss Alps, the Rhône flows through the heart of France’s gastronomic centre towards the Mediterranean Sea.
As it flows through France and Germany, castles tower over wine villages, where some of the best Rieslings grow.
■ M ore than 6,000 wine-growing properties in the Rhône Valley produce, distribute and export world-class wines worldwide.
■ It is believed that the Romans planted the first vineyards along the river. ■ Along the Moselle Valley, you’ll spot terraced vineyards as they rise up from the water’s edge, producing some of the best vintages. Fairytale castles and quaint medieval settlements make the region a must-see.
■ T he capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon excels at every level. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, excellent cuisine, fine wine and iconic architecture adorn the water’s banks, as it curves elegantly through the centre.
Amsterdam NETHERLANDS
Main River
Rhine River
Saône River
Antwerp
An eastern tributary of the Rhône, it flows through Burgundy before meeting the larger river at Lyon.
Moselle River
Trier Mannheim
■ Y ou’ll notice historically important churches and famed vineyards which have prospered from the water’s close proximity. ■ A long its banks, Chalon-sur-Saône’s architectural heritage is dominated by the cathedral and its old timber-framed houses, while being excellently located near the Burgundy wine-making region.
Cologne Rhine Gorge GERMANY Koblenz Rüdesheim
Rhine River FRANCE
Chalon-Sur-Saône
Main River
Würzburg Nuremberg Black Forest
PORTUGAL
SLOVAKIA
Passau
Bratislava Budapest HUNGARY
CROATIA Osijek
Avignon Arles
Douro River Flanked by vineyards, traditional wineries and the burnt orange roofs of charming villages, Portugal’s Douro winds through a rustic region of simple pleasures. ■ In 1756, the Douro Valley became the first defined wine-producing region in the world. ■ T he town of Régua played a huge role in the production and sale of Port wine, so it would only be right to visit a traditional ‘quinta’ to see where it all begins.
ROMANIA Belgrade SERBIA
Salamanca SPAIN
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Regensburg
Danube River
Rhône River Vega de Terrón
■ At the centre of the Franconian wine country, the Bavarian city of Würzburg projects its lavish personality through spectacular architecture, love of art and a lively nightlife.
AUSTRIA
Lyon Tournon Porto
■ The river is part of Corridor VII, the inland waterway link between the North Sea and the Black Sea.
Vienna
Basel SWITZERLAND
Saône River Douro River
The 237-mile long river reveals much about the history of the continent.
Bucharest Iron Gates Giurgiu
Danube River
BULGARIA
Europe’s second-longest river flows through 10 countries, more than any other in the world, including four capital cities, Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava and Belgrade. ■ The Danube’s enormous volume of water makes it one of central Europe’s most vital sources for fresh drinking water. ■ D ivided by the mighty Danube, Budapest was formerly two cities, with Pest on the east and Buda on the west. Now one city with stunning architecture, thermal spa’s and bustling cafés and restaurants waiting to be discovered. To book contact your local travel agency or email info@emeraldcruises.eu
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