Anjodi's New Provence Cruise - Following in the Footsteps of Van Gogh

Pretty as a Picture

The beauty of the Provence countryside is legendary. Visitors instantly recognize why it held such fascination for painters like Cézanne and Picasso, and why Van Gogh painted more than 300 of his works here. In addition to the natural charm of the region, there is a great deal of historical and architectural intrigue surrounding the ancient palaces, gardens and arenas of the sun-drenched cities along the way.

Itinerary highlights on the Anjodi Provence cruise include a visit to the medieval city of Avignon, located on the banks of the Rhône River and the former seat of Catholic popes for more than 300 years during the Middle Ages. Guests will climb the gentle steps to the famed Rocher des Doms and its picturesque, English-style public gardens that feature numerous fountains and grottos.  This is followed by a tour of the 14^th century Palais des Papes, or the Pope’s Palace, considered one of Europe’s largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings.

Arles & Aigues Mortes

There is also a visit to the city of Arles, famed for its association with Van Gogh.  Guests will explore the 1^st century Roman Arena, the St. Trophime Basilica and the museum of Provencal life.  Cruising a little further through the wetlands of the Camargue National Park, with its pink flamingos and white wild horses, Anjodi will moor at the walled city of Aigues Mortes. One of Europe’s most well preserved medieval cities, in the 13^th century Aigues Mortes was the port by which many crusaders embarked for the holy land. Here guests can visit the 12^th century Constance Tower and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s many local restaurants specializing in regional cuisine.

A Taste of the Med

Bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, Provence is one of the most popular vacation destinations in southern France, renowned for its lush lavender fields, ancient olive groves and vast stretches of vineyards. European Waterways’ guests will tour the famous Chateau Neuf du Papes vineyard and indulge in a private tasting at a renowned wine maker. Fresh oysters with a sea view are also on the menu as the cruise continues across the Thau Lake to Villeneuve les Maguelones, with the boat mooring just a short walk to a Mediterranean beach. This is followed by a tour of the 12^th century Cistercian Abbey of Valmagne, a former Benedictine monastery and one of the oldest vineyards in the region. Afterwards guests will stop at a local oyster farm for some fresh seafood and a glass of Picpoul de Pinet, a delightful white grape which has been grown near the Thau Lake for centuries.

The Art of Fine Dining

For food lovers the 8-passenger Anjodi is an attraction in itself, having appeared numerous times on Rick Stein’s French Odyssey, a popular television series that followed the famous chef on his culinary adventures through Southern France. Onboard, guests can be assured of Rick Stein standard cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients that include fresh seafood from the nearby Mediterranean. This cruise aboard Anjodi is the perfect way to appreciate art, be it the culinary creation on show around the dining table each evening, or the roman architecture and sweeping natural vistas that inspired Van Gogh and Picasso.