Came for the Wine stayed for the Culture 

We arrived and embarked on Avalon View and all I can say is that the ship was absolutely beautiful, with a really lovely interior design. When we came on board it was actually geared up for Halloween so spooky decorations and lots of cobwebs everywhere Avalon Waterways did an incredible job.

It looked stunning in the evenings all lit up and in our rooms the floor to ceiling French balcony was the perfect spot to unwind and take it all in.

The first day we were travelling so no shore excursions that day, but we arrived just in time for a few finger sandwiches and cakes with a much needed brew! 

Then ready for dinner, every evening we took part in the 4 course minimum dinner, where it was absolutely fabulous. The evenings were all themed to the destinations we were visiting as well as the wines. I particularly enjoyed Strasbourg day as French wine is one of my favourites.

Heidelberg was really beautiful, we went up the funicular and up to the top of a beautiful hill where there was a lovely Castle, we explored all of the grounds and went inside to find the largest wine barrel in the world! It was huge - bigger than some apartments! What was even more stunning than the castle was actually the autumnal leaves and trees everywhere, very special! 

The town of Heidelberg itself had quaint cafes and lots of places to eat. I went and bought a Kinder Bueno Cinnabon which was divine.

There were a few local pubs with fabulous German beers that were really traditional.

The following day we went to Strasbourg where everything looked like a scene from Beauty and the Beast. Such stunning little rivers and buildings, the French people were handing out treats from local shops, we didn’t need much convincing to go in and sample their goods! In particular a stand out for me was the Golden Eclair I had at ‘Donatien’ I highly recommend! As well as some tasty macaron shops and local gift shops selling fabulous Christmas ornaments.

The Notre Dame Cathedral was beautiful with its special tower that has survived bombing and earthquakes, it really is special by design.

We later went into one of the local villages and had a wine tasting which was really interesting.

The evening followed with a 5 course meal and one of my favourite desserts whilst on the cruise a pistachio layered pastry.

The next day we went to Colmar, this was probably the most beautiful place, very similar to Strasbourg but even more locally sourced foods. The people were very friendly and you felt like you were a part of it. Had a few cheese tastings here as well as caramelised nuts, and a fantastic Truffle specialist store. I went home with some Truffle flavoured Goats cheese and some Truffle Salt which I have been told I need to sprinkle on my scrambled eggs. I can confirm I have made this since coming back to the UK and I only wish I had purchased more.

Back on board just in time to make it to the cocktail hour on board, a personal favourite of mine was the margaritas and the martinis, very tasty! 

We chose to do the sit down meal every evening, however you could always do this Bistro style and order from the Buffet, where you could help yourself, this was a different area of the ship for those who wanted more of a grab and go. 

Breakfasts included Buffet options as well as ordering to the table. I had the Waffles and Berries one day and the Eggs Benedict another day which was equally good.

Lunch was again the same concept as breakfast, most of the time I would opt for the buffet but on one occasion I had the cheeseburger which was very tasty however the fine dining options onboard where amazing.

I liked the fact that you could change your excursions even on the day, and that there were options for everyone. Even if you wanted a chill out day you could do that, and it was not an issue.

There was a Jacuzzi on the top deck as well as bikes you could borrow to explore and a small gym was available. There were yoga classes early mornings so people could partake if they were interested.

The evening entertainment was usually a singer or live music, they have a chocolate and wine tasting one of the evenings after dinner which was wonderful.

All in all I would recommend this cruise to anyone, as it was very slow paced and relaxed. Great food and wine and a wonderful crew on board. 

A great first river cruise for me, I really look forward to the next one!