The only condition for you to be able to embark on this anxiously awaited luxury cruise itinerary from Viking River Cruises is to be an enthusiast of wine. You do have to enjoy long trips as well, as this journey takes you through some gorgeous wine-producing French regions, where you can learn the process of winemaking.
Reportedly lasting for as much as 8 days, this staggering French adventure was named “Châteaux, Rivers & Wine” and will be available through Viking River Cruises’ own Longships. They were dubbed the Best New River Ships of 2012 in Cruise Critic’s Editors’ Picks Awards. The newest vessel, the Viking Forseti, is also the most innovative of the lot, featuring eco-friendly diesel-electric hybrid engines, herb gardens growing onboard and solar panels.
We will now “rip” the name of the trip into pieces in order to describe it properly. The “Châteaux” involves a start in Bordeaux and ventures through and along Route des Châteaux, on the Peninsula of Médoc. The trip gets you surrounded by luxurious estates and immense vineyards.
In addition, travelers will be able to taste wines from both the Marguax and Médoc regions, while enjoying the pristine natural landscapes. Heading further, guests will arrive at St. Emilion, where they can visit the Citadel in Balye, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Furthermore, the journey leads them towards Cadillac, where they can sip the sweet Sauternes wines. The itinerary is completed by a detailed tour of Bordeaux’s unique cafés, architectural monuments and churches.
“Rivers” brings tourists closer to the tastings and regional explorations of Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers. These areas have been renowned for their vintage winemaking for more than a century now. Even better, guests will be given the chance to try these exceptional liquors right where they’re made.
“Wine” – the symbol of this one off journey, is also its purpose. Tourists will be having a lot to learn from this experience, regarding the growth of vineyards and winemaking, alongside their history. Viking’s Culture Curriculum will be welcoming local experts which are there to help guests assimilate everything they’ve learned, alongside making them familiar with the customs in Bordeaux. This will be achieved via all sorts of activities, from getting tips from master sommeliers, to taking French lessons and learning how to bake the renowned traditional pastry canelé.
The journey will reportedly being during March 2014 and run through December2014. It will involve all-inclusive prices, including seven guided tours, all meals, visits to 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 7 nights in a stateroom with panoramic views towards the river. The prices start at $1,656 per person, depending on the staterooms customers book and travel dates.
[Viking River Cruises via JustLuxe]
