France 2024 - week 3 - Sailing on the Rhone

This is one very long river - the full distance from the Alps in Switzerland to the meeting with the Mediterranean is just over 500 miles - and our trip from June 12-19 was more than 200 miles, from Arles to Lyon. Along the way we passed thru 12 locks going up river, and being on the “front deck” while the boat moves into the lock, waiting while the water goes up or down, then sailing out, is fascinating.

France has 101 departments, which are similar to our counties, and we have spent time in Bouches-du-Rhone (Marseille), Vaucluse (Nyons and Avignon), brief stops in Ardesche and Drome, and Rhone (Lyon). Most of our days have consisted of shore outings in cities and villages, The Pope’s Palace in Avignon, Roman ruins of many types, and lots of shops. Sunday morning’s tour was a hike in the department of Ardesche, beginning with a short coach (bus) ride to the top of a hill for a walk down thru vineyards. Unfortunately the bus broke down and we had to walk to the start of the official hike, an addition of 1.25 miles, for a total of five miles. 

Our guide gave a great history of the area as we walked, so it was all worthwhile.

We have six new friends from Oregon! One couple from Klamath Falls and two couples from Portland area. While we didn’t know them before this trip, we have friends and work associates in common with two of the couples. Such a small world!

We’ve now been in Lyon for two days. Our boat, the Viking Hemdal, has been parked on the east side of the Rhone, allowing easy access for bus and walking tours. Today we are transferring to another boat on the Seine River, which requires a train ride from Lyon to Paris. Off we go!

Pont du Gard