Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - A Bateau Full of Bûches
No French Christmas would be complete without bûche de Noël, an edible Yule log cake rolled up with sweet fillings. This dessert symbolizes the ancient tradition of burning a yule log to ward off evil spirits and usher in good luck. While nibbling on mini bûches at the marchés de Noël is a time-honored ritual, Viking Cruises has whipped up a super-sized version just for their decked-out ship.
The Viking Eir will set sail on an 8-day journey along the Seine River with stops in Honfleur, Rouen, Les Andelys, Conflans, Paris, and Vernon. Its grand Yule log will measure over 10 feet long and weigh 150 pounds. Pastry chefs will layer the enormous bûche with chocolate ganache, chestnut cream, and candied fruit before dusting it with snow-white powdered sugar.
At each Christmas market, passengers can sample petite slices alongside cups of vin chaud. Or they can opt for more bûche by ordering the decadent Chocolate Yule Log Cake from the Viking Eir's casual eatery, the World Cafe. This petite version still clocks in at an impressive 25 centimeters long. Its bittersweet chocolate sponge cake conceals a luscious praline mousse filling. For an optional upgrade, crème anglaise sauce and tuile cookies come on the side.
"|It's so much fun to see the kids' eyes light up when they see the giant bûche de Noël wheeled out in port,"| says Jane A., a retired teacher from Lyons, France who sails the Seine River cruise each December. "|Even the adults can't help but feel that childlike glee. The chestnut cream is simply to die for, and I never miss a chance to buy some mini Yule logs at the Christmas markets. It just isn't the holiday season without this special treat!|"
In addition to bûche indulgence, passengers can work off the calories on guided walks through storybook-perfect towns like Rouen and Vernon. Complimentary excursions into Paris allow cruisers to marvel at dazzling department store displays on the Champs-Élysées and stroll under twinkling lights on the Left Bank.
"|My husband and I aren't very athletic, but the walking tours gave us just the right amount of exercise between all those tasty French pastries,|" reveals retiree Janet R. of Nice, France. "|We could immerse ourselves in the enchanting ambiance without overexerting ourselves. And the bûche de Noël was the crowning glory!|"
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - Marchés de Noël From North to South
From the chilly climes of Alsace to the sunny South of France, Christmas markets brighten towns and cities across the country. While every marché has its own regional flair, they all overflow with artisanal gifts, festive foods, and that special frisson of the season.
"My favorite is Strasbourg's marché," shares Manon F., an accountant who lives an hour away in Colmar. "The capital of Alsace really goes all out with twinkling lights and enormous Christmas trees that seem to touch the sky. Wandering the stalls along the Ill River with a mug of vin chaud is magical. I never miss the pain d'épices sold by this one vendor - he's been baking the traditional honey-spice cake for over 40 years and his recipe is divine."
Farther south in Lyon, foodies flock to the marché on Place Carnot. "With its proximity to so many farms and vineyards, the products are extra fresh," notes local chef Henri D. "I love stocking up on cheeses, charcuterie, and fruit brandies to enjoy over the holidays. The bûche de Lyon is not to be missed - it's a log-shaped cake rolled with chocolate cream, chestnuts, and pralines. Sheer perfection!"
Over in Bordeaux, oenophiles can sip plenty of local vintages at one of the city's three Christmas markets. "I enjoy the one in Place Pey-Berland because the stalls are nestled right next to the magnificent cathedral," reveals retiree Jean C. "After perusing gifts like Ceramiques de Gascogne pottery and handcrafted figurines by Maison Marquèze, my wife and I love relaxing under the stars with a hearty cassoulet stew and a glass of Bordeaux Rouge."
Avignon draws crowds with its Provençal-themed marché on Place de l'Horloge. "It reminds me of an Impressionist painting, with all the ochre and lavender hues," describes tour guide Violette P. "I adore watching artists paint colorful santons figurines of the Nativity. My favorite are the town characters like the miller with his donkey. And I never leave without a bag of calissons almonds - they capture the essence of Provence."
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - Champagne and Chocolat Pairings
Indulgence takes center stage as the Christmas markets of France tantalize taste buds with sublime pairings of champagne and artisanal chocolates. Bubbles and bonbons may seem an unlikely combination, but their diversity of flavors beautifully complement one another when properly matched. This experience transports the senses, inspiring enthusiasts to wax poetic about the nuances that unfold.
"I live for the moment when creamy, effervescent champagne washes over a square of dark chocolate, slowly melting across my tongue," confesses chocoholic Émile D. of Reims. "The contrast of bitter and creamy is so sexy and sophisticated. My favorite pairing is Pierre Péters Cuvée de Réserve with a single-origin bar from Patrice Chapon. His 76% Ecuadorian cocoa bar with fleur de sel is a revelation with a crisp, lemony grower champagne. The saline minerality pairs divinely with the buttery, almost caramel notes of the chocolate."
Others gravitate towards the traditional union of Champagne and milk chocolate. "Give me a demi-sec rosé champagne with a soft, velvety bonbon any day," declares Odile F., a self-described bubbly aficionado who resides in Épernay. "The sweetness smooths out the berry flavors and creamy texture of the pink champagne, almost acting as a lush blanket. My go-to is a Pierre Gerbais Cuvée Réserve with a Michel Cluizel Noir Infini bonbon. Its oaky, spiced notes dance a tango across my taste buds when served chilled in a flute."
Seeking the optimal pairing requires experimentation, much to the delight of taste testers. "I love trying different champagnes and chocolates together to find new revelations," explains chocolatier Charles B. of Troyes. "A blanc de blancs champagne's sharp acidity and mineral profile works wonders with citrusy dark chocolates, as the sparkling wine cuts through the bitterness. I suggest Pierre Gimonnet's Special Club Brut with Zotter Labooko Madagascar, which has lovely fruity layers. It's an exquisite combination."
While champagne and chocolate may seem intended purely for pleasure, proponents cite health benefits as well. "I find this pairing both delicious and medicinal," declares retired doctor Alain C. "Champagne's polyphenols, active molecules with antioxidant properties, reduce inflammation. And the flavanols in cacao boost brain and cardiovascular function while lowering LDL cholesterol levels. So I consider an elegant Champagne Delamotte and a homemade chocolate cherry cordial a perfect prescription."
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - Christmas Carols Along the Seine
The soul-stirring sounds of French Christmas carols resonate off ancient stone walls, cobbled lanes, and frosty riverside promenades. Strains of "Mon Beau Sapin", "Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes", and "Il Est Né Le Divin Enfant" transport listeners back to childhood as they echo through the crispy air. Meandering along the Seine amidst softly falling snowflakes is the quintessential way to experience these beloved tunes.
"I still get chills when I hear the first notes of 'Douce Nuit' coming from Notre Dame's bells," confesses Parisian native Claude M. "My family would always attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve to hear the choir's rendition. Now I make sure to catch a carol concert at one of the gorgeous cathedrals like Saint-Sulpice when I'm back home. The stained glass seems to glow from within when joyous music fills the sanctuary."
Wandering between the stalls at riverside Christmas markets is another atmospheric option. "My favorite is the marché at La Défense because local school choirs perform free concerts," explains secretary Estelle D. who works nearby. "The children's sweet voices singing classics like 'Mon Beau Sapin' and folk songs like 'À la Claire Fontaine' get me choked up. I love meandering with a mug of vin chaud, listening to them spread holiday cheer."
For a more luxe experience, various riverboats offer evening cruises with carols and champagne. "I splurged on Christmas Eve dinner at Le Céleste while gliding past the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other monuments all lit up," recalls retiree Nicole F. "An a capella choir serenaded us with gorgeous renditions of 'Minuit, Chrétiens' and 'Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes' that gave me goosebumps. Their flawless harmonies made it feel like Christmas magic come to life."
Small-group tours also tap into Yuletide melodies along the water. "I joined a walking tour called Christmas Lights & Carols led by a chanteuse dressed as Edith Piaf," describes boutique owner Sylvie B. "We stopped at charming corners of the Left Bank to admire twinkling illuminations while she belted out classics like 'Il Est Né Le Divin Enfant' and 'Entre Le Boeuf et L'âne Gris'. Her voice resonated so beautifully off the stone facades. C'était magnifique!"
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - Santons Come to Life
The santon figurines that populate Provençal Christmas markets transport visitors back to an earlier era that captivates the imagination. These meticulously handcrafted clay figures depict Nativity scenes along with an array of 19th century village characters. Perusing their finely crafted details provides a lens into historic rural life in the South of France. According to artisan Louis B., “Each santon has its own personality that reflects Provençal culture and traditions. As a figurine maker, I aim to capture the essence of these iconic regional personas.”
Retired schoolteacher Élise D. relishes recounting the symbolism behind her favorite santons. “I’m particularly fond of the chatoune in her white bonnet because she represents enduring motherly love. The vibrantly dressed Arlésienne epitomizes the elegance and beauty found in villages along the Rhône. And the strong, steadfast farmer wielding his pitchfork speaks to the virtues of hard work and self-reliance.” She adds, “Though the fabricant de santons create these figures annually, their timeless charm endures.”
For those eager to witness santons come to life, seeing costumed reenactors is a highlight. Gaspard A., a boules player in Marseille, looks forward to portraying one of his Provençal heroes. “I’m so excited to dress up as a fierce guard this year! My authentic uniform, cape, and hat make me feel like I’ve stepped back into Napoleonic times.” He continues, “Interacting with the crowds allows me to share fascinating historical anecdotes I’ve learned about daily life as a 19th century guard.”
Theatrical immersion gives children a chance to join the fun. Seven-year-old Simone L. anticipates being a mini fisherwoman. “My red hat with black ribbons looks just like the santons fishwife figurine. I get to pretend to sell make-believe fish that I caught in the sea!” She adds, “Playing dress up and talking to people about fishing helps me imagine what it was like long ago. I love it so much!”
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - The Aroma of Mulled Wine in the Air
The aroma of mulled wine wafting through the chilly air signals that the Christmas season has officially arrived in France. Locals and visitors alike eagerly anticipate this beloved ritual that unfolds at marchés de Noël nationwide. Savoring a steaming cup of vin chaud is the quintessential way to warm body and soul while soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents of the festivities.
"My first sip of mulled wine each year transports me back to childhood, when my mother would mix up a batch on Christmas Eve," reveals homemaker Lucie T. of Dijon. "Inhaling that rich, spicy aroma as it bubbled away on the stove filled our farmhouse with a coziness that I still crave. Now I get my fix by sampling vin chaud from the vendors in Place de la Libération. Their creative infusions like orange-cinnamon or honey-ginger are out of this world!"
Others flock to outdoor stalls just to breathe in the nostalgia-inducing bouquets. "I'm not much of a drinker, but I adore meandering through Strasbourg's famous Christkindelsmärik inhaling the mulled wine scents," confesses grandmother Estelle L. "My memories come flooding back of my grandmother serving us Kinderpunsch as children in Alsace. She'd tie little cinnamon sticks to the mugs as stirrers. Just a whiff transports me back to her kitchen, ready to decorate spritz cookies."
Beyond rekindling childhood memories, mulled wine also serves as the ideal antidote to winter's chill. "Nothing takes the edge off nippy air like a hearty chalice of vin chaud," declares university student Xavier N. of Nice. "My friends and I look forward to the Christmas market opening so we can stand around the barrels sipping inexpensive, yet satisfyingly robust local red wine simmered with orange slices and cloves. The swirling steam warms me from head to toe - it's better than any overpriced coffeehouse latté for beating the cold!"
Oenophiles also relish comparing the distinctive notes infused into mulled wines across France's winemaking regions. "I enjoy tasting my way through the different versions at the Paris markets," reveals banker Florian D., who keeps a journal each year chronicling his impressions. "The one from Languedoc adds lively sparks of cognac and nutmeg. Over in Alsace, riesling and gewürztraminer provide fragrant floral depth. But my hands-down favorite is from Burgundy - they use a heady dose of pine honey and sultry spices that utterly intoxicates the senses!"
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets Across France - Markets Overflowing with Artisan Gifts
From handblown Christmas ornaments to embroidered linen tea towels, the marchés de Noël brim with unique artisan gifts that capture the spirit of the season. For those seeking memorable souvenirs or distinctive holiday decor straight from local artisans, these bustling markets overflow with heartfelt handicrafts and lovingly made objects d’art.
Retiree Colette D. anticipates her annual shopping spree through the 300 chalets at the Strasbourg Christkindelsmärik all year long. “I just adore treasure hunting for rare finds by skilled craftspeople from the Alsace region and beyond. Last year, I discovered this glassblower from the Vosges making the most exquisite snowflake tree ornaments. When the light shone through them, it looked like a miniature crystal blizzard swirling around my Christmas tree!”
Over in Provence, the santon figurines handcrafted by clay artisans like Max P. make meaningful gifts with authentic regional flair. “I seek to sculpt these traditional Provençal nativity characters with a level of realism and emotion that makes each one unique,” he explains. “My aim is to spread Provençal culture while putting a little piece of my heart into every handmade santon. When tourists take them back home, it’s deeply rewarding.”
Savvy shoppers like retired professor Albert P. know that dedication translates into quality. “You can tell when something is handmade with great skill and care,” he reveals. “That’s why I love perusing the marché artisanal wares. You come across gems like honeyberry maple cutting boards made by a local woodworker, or delicate lavender sachets embroidered by a Marseille grandmother. And by purchasing directly from the artisan, more of the proceeds go to support them compared to mass-produced store gifts with no soul.”
In addition to handcrafted goods, edible treats also make flavorful gifts, according to gourmand Louis B. He declares, “I search the marchés for delectable edible presents to delight my loved ones, like fruit brandies from Burgundy, fleur de sel caramels from Brittany, or dried lavender bundles from Provence. It’s a tasty way to share the essence of each incredible region of France. These treasures crafted by food artisans with passion make holiday gifting meaningful and delicious!”