Cruising down the picturesque rivers of Europe have long been popular with European travelers, but in recent years Americans have begun discovering this fascinating, relaxing way of exploring and experiencing certain parts of this fascinating continent.

The Rhone River historically has been one of the most important rivers in Europe from an agricultural, commercial and transportation standpoint. Beginning at the base of the Alps in Switzerland, it picks up several large rivers along the way and eventually empties into the Mediterranean Sea at the French town of Sete.

Our trip through the South of France combined cruising the Rhone River in a traditional river barge through some of the most intriguing areas of France — Provence, the Camargue, and Languedoc — with bus visits to seacoast cities, parks and wonderful little medieval landlocked towns in these areas.

The land travel portion of the trip began in Nice, a European favorite for beach vacations. Shopping abounds here, particularly in the old town which contains a labyrinth of tiny 18th-century pedestrian walkways. The seaside boulevard boasts one of the best local markets in the south of France and a trip up to the Colline du Château, a onetime fortress, provides a stunning 360-degree view of Nice and environs.