France, Travel

Château Margaux

Château Margaux is a wine estate located on the Left Bank of Bordeaux. The estate is one of the five first-growth estates in France's prized Medoc region. We had the pleasure of exploring the estate during a stop. Unfortunately, tastings are only offered for professionals and by appointment only. Still, it was worth a walk… Continue reading Château Margaux

France, Travel

Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets in Paris Christmas markets began in Germany and spread across Europe, these markets are open from Mid-November through early January in Paris. You can find them at several locations throughout Paris including  Les Halles, Notre-Dame to Les Tuileries, as well as the impressive Christmas Village at La Défense. Don't forget to visit the Jardin… Continue reading Christmas Markets

France, Travel

A Visit to Lyon, France

Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) Our viking river cruises ended in Lyon, France. One of my favorite parts of this city was the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), which is located at the foot of Fourvière Hill. This part of the city has colorful cascades, pedestrian streets, and the Les Traboules. The les Traboules are secret passageways… Continue reading A Visit to Lyon, France

France, Travel

A Visit to Medieval Avignon

Avignon, France a city conveniently situated along the Rhône river is another must see city during a trip to Provence. The city center is located within the ancient medieval stone ramparts. Once inside these medieval walls, you will find narrow passageways, and charming town squares. The famous Palais des Papes, and Pont d’Avignon, along with many other interesting… Continue reading A Visit to Medieval Avignon

France

Quarries of Light

A 2,000-year-old limestone quarry in the rugged Alpilles hills near Les Bau-de-Provence might not seem like a destination for artist, but think again. The original quarry closed in 1935 and has been used for such films as the 1960's “Testament of Orpheus”. In 1975 a man named Albert Plécy had the clever idea to use… Continue reading Quarries of Light

France, Travel

A Visit to Les Baux-de-Provence

Les Baux de Provence was an added half-day excursion on our Lyon to Provence Viking River Cruise. This village is perched high on a hill in the Alpilles between Avignon and Arles. Les Baux de Provence is in a beautiful location and offers some gorgeous views from the top of this village. We wanted to… Continue reading A Visit to Les Baux-de-Provence

France, Travel

Train De l’Ardeche

Train De L'Ardeche This was a chilly day, but we decided to join the planned excursion offered on our Viking River cruise along the  Rhône River during our stop in Tournon. The Train de l’Ardèche is a steam train that travels along the Doux tributary and the scenery is beautiful, especially during the Autumn. The… Continue reading Train De l’Ardeche