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Colours of Provence – A Week Aboard AmaKristina
There are some journeys that linger with you long after the suitcase is unpacked, the final gelato enjoyed, and the jetlag has faded. My recent voyage along the Rhône aboard AmaKristina-experiencing AmaWaterways’ Colours of Provence itinerary-was one of those rare trips where every day delivered something unforgettable.
From medieval villages to world-class cuisine, ancient Roman ruins to vineyard dogs and truffle-hunting pups, this cruise offered a week of extraordinary moments that I can’t wait to share with future travellers.
Lyon - gastronomic heart of France
After settling into my Twin-Balcony stateroom-my top recommendation for clients wanting just a touch more breathing room-our first morning was dedicated to an exploration of the iconic Paul Bocuse Les Halles Market. It’s hard to overstate the sensory delight of wandering through a French food hall bursting with artisanal cheeses, delicate pastries, fresh oysters, and cured meats displayed like artwork. Every stall felt personally curated, and our guide expertly led us through tastings that showcased the soul of Lyon’s cuisine. It set the tone for a cruise where food was truly central-not just on shore, but onboard as well.
In the afternoon we travelled into the Beaujolais wine region, a patchwork of rolling hills and centuries-old vineyards. Our tasting was intimate and relaxed, made even more memorable by an unexpected star of the winery: Mascot, the vineyard dog, who trotted between guests in hopes of a scratch behind the ears. There’s something magical about sipping local wine while chatting with the winemaker and taking in the sweeping views that seem unchanged by time. It was the first of many moments that made me appreciate how AmaWaterways connects travellers with people-not just places.
Effortless blend of past and presnet
The next morning, we arrived in Saint-Colombe, where I joined the Footsteps of the Ancient Romans Walking Tour. Standing on stones worn down by thousands of years of footsteps, it struck me once again how effortlessly Europe blends the past with the present. Our guide brought the ruins to life with vivid storytelling as we walked through historic Vienne, imagining gladiators, traders, and travellers from long before our time. It’s these rich layers of history that make river cruising so rewarding-every stop holds another fascinating chapter.
Stepping into a storybook
In Tournon, our adventure took a nostalgic turn with a steam train ride through the Gorge du Doux. The rhythmic chug of the locomotive and the dramatic scenery-deep valleys, rushing streams, and towering cliffs-made the journey feel like stepping into a storybook. Even with the chill in the air, the landscapes were breathtaking, the kind that compel you to put your phone down and simply take it all in.
That evening we docked in Viviers, and as twilight settled over the cobblestone lanes, we joined an evening Ghost Walk. Flickering lanterns cast long shadows as our guide led us through medieval alleyways and mystical stories from the town’s past. It was eerie, enchanting, and fun-especially seeing the town so quiet and still under the moonlight.
Our next stop was Avignon, a city steeped in religious history and home to the imposing Papal Palace. Our morning walking tour explored the palace’s grand halls and the charming streets that surround it. Later in the afternoon, we traded medieval architecture for rustic countryside charm with a visit to a local truffle farm. There we were greeted by Roxy, a friendly two-year-old American Shepherd whose tail wagged with uncontainable enthusiasm as she demonstrated her impressive truffle-hunting skills. Watching her sniff out buried treasure was both adorable and fascinating-and tasting fresh truffle products afterwards certainly didn’t hurt!
Arles: A sun-drenched town famous for inspiring Vincent van Gogh.
Our walking tour was filled with vivid storytelling about the artist’s troubled brilliance and the many places around Arles that appear in his paintings. It made the town feel like an open-air museum, where every corner holds a piece of art history. From there, we continued to the dramatic landscape of Les Baux and the awe-inspiring Carrières de Lumières-an immersive art exhibition set within an old limestone quarry. The sheer scale of the illuminated walls, paired with music and colour, created a sensory experience unlike anything I’ve ever seen.
AmaWaterways’ commitment to quality and innovation.
One of the best things about AmaWaterways is that all shore excursions are included, and you can participate in as many as your energy levels allow. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a wine lover, or someone who simply wants to wander, there’s an option for everyone each day-no surprise fees, no stress, just pure enjoyment.
Back onboard, the culinary experience was every bit as memorable as the destinations. While every meal on AmaKristina was beautifully prepared, the standout evening was our dinner at the Chef’s Table Restaurant. Watching the team prepare a multi-course tasting menu right in front of us added a special intimacy to the experience. Each course was a work of art-creative, perfectly balanced, and paired thoughtfully with local wines.
The ship’s sun deck also features a heated pool with a swim-up bar, and although the temperature dipped to a frosty –1°C during our sailing, the water was warm and inviting. I didn’t brave the cold to enjoy a cocktail in the pool, but I could easily imagine spending sunny afternoons there during warmer months, taking in the views with a drink in hand.
As the cruise came to an end, we travelled onward to Nice, where we capped off the journey with a Segway tour up Castle Hill. Gliding along the promenade and winding our way up to panoramic views of the coastline was the perfect finale-a blend of fun, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery.
An Effortlessly Enriching Holiday
Reflecting on the trip, what stands out most isn’t just the incredible food or the stunning landscapes (though both were exceptional). It’s the people-the warm and welcoming staff onboard, the passionate local guides, and the friendly faces we met in each village and city. AmaWaterways has a special way of making guests feel at home while also making each day feel like an extraordinary discovery.
This journey along the Rhône was not just a cruise-it was a celebration of flavours, history, culture, and connection. If you’re dreaming of an effortlessly enriching holiday where every detail is thoughtfully taken care of AmaWaterways might just be your next great adventure.
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