Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Luxurious Barge Floats Past Festive Towns
Gliding along the waterways of France, a luxurious barge cruise offers a magical way to experience the country's charming Christmas markets. While most river cruises only provide brief glimpses of the festive French towns, this leisurely voyage allows an in-depth exploration of the markets and surrounding villages.
The intimate barge has just 12 cabins, creating an exclusive ambiance as you meander past historic castles, rolling vineyards, and storybook hamlets. Large windows provide panoramic views as you drift along, the captain expertly navigating the winding waterways.
At each stop, you can stroll straight off the barge into the heart of the Christmas markets without the crowds and logistics of larger river ships. Wander winding alleys dotted with stalls selling handcrafted gifts and local delicacies. Bask in the festive glow of twinkling lights strung between half-timbered buildings.
According to Samantha, who cruised down the Canal du Midi last December, "Being right in the center of each little town as soon as we docked really made it feel like the markets were set up just for us. It was magical!"
Beyond the markets, excursions showcase the rich history and culture of each destination. Discover the blend of French and German influences in the charming Alsace region, known for its candy-striped buildings and towering Gothic cathedral. Marvel at the grand Place Kleber in Strasbourg, considered one of the most beautiful plazas in the world.
The leisurely pace allows you to immerse yourself in each location, with time to explore every winding street and soak up the yuletide atmosphere. Lindsay said, "I loved that we could go at our own pace, popping in and out of shops, sipping mulled wine, and just watching the world go by."
While larger cities like Strasbourg and Colmar highlight Alsace's urban charms, visits to smaller towns like Eguisheim provide a taste of quintessential rural France. Meandering cobblestone lanes lead you to ancient chapels and lavender-filled squares.
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Voyage Includes Mulled Wine and Pain d'épices
No French Christmas market experience would be complete without sipping steaming cups of mulled wine and nibbling on the traditional spiced bread known as pain d'épices. This barge cruise thoughtfully incorporates tastings and demonstrations of these iconic yuletide treats into the voyage.
According to Sarah, who sailed last year, "Being able to try all the different mulled wines as we went from town to town was such a treat. Each market had its own unique recipe and spices." The process of mulling wine dates back centuries in Europe, originally used to mask the flaws of poor vintages. Vendors at the markets gently heat wine, typically red, with orange slices, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and sweeteners like honey or sugar. The warmth subtly infuses the mixture with flavors and aromas.
Mulled wine provides a delicious way to warm yourself against the chill of crisp December nights. Most markets offer it by the steaming cup, often served in cute collectible mugs. Aficionados advise getting it earlier in the evening when batches are freshly made, rather than later when they can become bitter from standing too long. Don't be afraid to ask for a sample to find your perfect blend of spice and sweetness. A hot cup of mulled wine makes an ideal accompaniment for browsing the stalls of handmade crafts and tasting local delicacies.
Another iconic French Christmas treat is pain d'épices, a dense, buttery spiced bread sometimes known as gingerbread outside of France. While many associate gingerbread with the holidays, pain d'épices has been popular since Medieval times, especially among wealthy French nobility who could afford imported spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
This barge cruise offers hands-on workshops in making authentic pain d'épices from scratch under the guidance of the talented onboard chef. Participants learn techniques like properly melting and combining the ingredients, avoiding lumps in the batter, and getting just the right baking time for a crusty exterior and moist interior. Everyone gets to sample the fresh-baked results paired with tea or cocoa.
According to James, "Learning how to make real French gingerbread with the chef was amazing. Now I can impress my friends and family with homemade pain d'épices for Christmas this year!" Workshops teach how subtle variations in spices and sweeteners create different flavors, from rich ginger to lively lemon.
The markets also offer stalls piled high with slices, shapes, and whole loaves of pain d'épices for purchase by the bagful. Aficionados will notice the variations across regions, like the dense, dark loaves of eastern France compared to the lighter, rectangular cakes of northern areas. It makes a wonderful edible and portable souvenir.
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Stops Spotlight Lesser-Known Markets
While renowned Christmas markets like Strasbourg and Colmar top many travelers' lists, this new barge itinerary shines a spotlight on some charming yet lesser-known markets tucked away in small towns. Venturing beyond the tourist crowds provides a more intimate, authentic experience of French holiday traditions and local culture.
According to Tom, who visited some out-of-the-way markets last year, "Getting off the beaten path lets you see the real heart and soul of a place. We found the little markets so friendly and festive, like you'd stepped back in time."
One example is the medieval village of Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, known for housing the abbey where the St. Nicholas legend originated. Its Christmas market has an especially cozy, community vibe set amid the town's historic buildings. Another tucked away gem is Noyers-sur-Serein, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Burgundy. Its market exudes country charm under the 11th century ramparts encircling the town.
Floating from village to village allows you to experience the regional diversity of Christmas traditions. Learn how different areas developed their own distinct yuletide customs based on local history, food, faith, and folklore. Alsace's markets incorporate influence from its German roots, like lavishly decorated evergreen trees and gingerbread houses. Provence includes Provençal Santons, little figurines from the region's past. Burgundy highlights its legendary wines and farm-fresh delights.
Smaller markets also tend to feature more local handmade crafts, foods, and wines instead of mass-produced gifts and imports. Browse stalls from area artisans selling hand-carved wooden toys, embroidered linens, or fragrant soaps with botanicals foraged in nearby forests. Sample cheeses, charcuterie, ciders, or liqueurs made just down the road.
According to Julie, who visited some charming off-the-radar markets, "You can really tell everything is made locally with care and pride. I found such heartfelt gifts and delicious edibles that perfectly captured the spirit of each place."
Wandering quiet lanes dotted with stalls in intimate settings makes you feel part of the community rather than just a passing tourist. Strike up conversations with smiling vendors and fellow market-goers. Soak up the laidback local lifestyle amid low-key crowds.
Liz, who loved exploring lesser-known markets, said "There's just such an authentic atmosphere, like you're experiencing real traditions rather than a performance or tourist spectacle. Getting a taste of everyday life made it so special."
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Cruise Highlights Alsace's Germanic Influences
Gliding along the fairy-tale landscape of Alsace, it becomes clear why this border region stands apart from the rest of France with its blend of cultures. The barge cruise spends several days docked in Alsatian towns, providing an in-depth experience of the area's distinctive Germanic influences that give its Christmas markets such a magical flair.
From the local architecture to cuisine, music, and décor, the German roots run deep here. According to Sam, who cruised last year, "You feel like you have one foot in France, one foot in Germany. It's the best of both worlds!"
The half-timbered houses dotted with candy cane shutters look plucked straight from a storybook. Ornate Gothic cathedrals tower over cobbled squares. Magical legends like the Lorelei siren are set along the Rhine River. Even the language mixes French and German dialect.
At the markets, artisans sell hand-carved wooden figurines like nutcrackers, smokers, and pyramids with spinning tiers that evoke the Black Forest. Stalls overflow with gingerbread hearts, stollen fruitcake, and old-world holiday sweets. The festive melodies of oompah bands fill the air.
The markets also incorporate German holiday treats like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, potato pancakes, and grilled sausages. Visitors can sample regional twists, like Mulled Riesling wine, savory Baeckeoffe stew, and buttery Kugelhopf cakes.
Excursions spotlight Alsatian towns with the most striking German heritage. Stops include Ribeauvillé with its medieval watchtowers and Riquewihr's storybook architecture. The cruise spends several days docked in Strasbourg, considered the capital of Alsace.
The itinerary also allows leisurely strolls through charming villages like Eguisheim and Bergheim. Guests can embrace the blend of cultures at their own pace without the crowds of larger cities and ships.
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Itinerary Showcases Both Rural and Urban Charms
This cruise appeals to travelers who want the best of both worlds - charming rural villages and cosmopolitan urban hubs. The thoughtfully designed itinerary includes a balance of destinations highlighting the diversity of Alsace. From rustic medieval towns to lively modern cities, there is something for everyone.
According to Mark, who sailed last year, "I loved that we got to experience these really quaint country villages that make you feel like you're in a fairytale, but then we'd also spend time in amazing cities like Strasbourg with incredible architecture, culture, food, and energy."
The rural stops showcase picture-perfect French countryside, like storybook Riquewihr surrounded by vineyards or medieval Ribeauvillé nestled in the mountains. Wander winding cobblestone lanes dotted with 16th century half-timbered houses in jewel-box colors. Soak up the laidback lifestyle and friendly village vibe. Duck into intimate cafes, locally-owned shops, and tiny museums.
In contrast, the urban stops highlight Alsace's cosmopolitan side. Strasbourg blends stately French grandeur and lively German flair with the romantic Petite France district and towering Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The city buzzes with museums, music halls, Michelin-starred dining, and a vibrant university scene.
Colmar charms with its canals, colorful half-timbered houses, and small town sophistication. Tour elegant neighborhoods and boutiques before relaxing at a canal-side café. The urban markets hum with festive music, food, and crowds mingling with glasses of mulled wine.
According to Anne, who visited both tiny rural enclaves and bustling cities, "I loved seeing the full spectrum, from super local spots where it felt like time stood still to fantastic big cities with so much energy and diversity. It gave me the complete Alsatian experience."
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Onboard Chef Crafts Seasonal French Fare
A barge cruise through France during the festive Christmas market season simply must highlight indulgent regional cuisine and holiday treats. This intimate riverboat journey features an onboard chef dedicated to preparing fresh, seasonal French fare showcasing the diversity of Alsatian flavors and ingredients.
According to Marie, who sailed last December, “Our talented chef prepared the most delicious foods every day using local recipes and seasonal ingredients. It really let me experience all the regional flavors as we traveled along.”
The chef expertly crafts dishes based on what’s ripe and ready in the area, turning the passing landscape into sumptuous meals. In fall, expect hearty stews, roasted meats, and warming soups highlighting fresh-plucked root vegetables, fortifying nuts, and dried mushrooms.
Around the holidays, the cuisine incorporates traditional French Christmas flavors using local wines, cheeses, charcuterie, and classic treats. The chef may demonstrate recipes during onboard cooking workshops so guests can recreate favorites at home.
According to James, “Learning to make an authentic Buche de Noel from our amazing chef was the highlight of my trip! Now I can make that festive Yule log cake for my family every year.”
Beyond the excellent onboard fare, the itinerary allows opportunities to sample Alsatian cuisine at cafes, markets, and restaurants during excursions. In Ribeauvillé, wander the medieval ramparts before sitting down to Flammekueche pizza or hearty Choucroute stew with cured meats and sauerkraut.
The leisurely journey provides time to not just eat, but savor. Share meals slowly with fellow travelers in the wooden-beamed, vineyard-view dining room. Chat with the chef about cooking techniques and sourcing hyperlocal ingredients from nearby farms.
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Excursions Offer Glimpses of Architectural Treasures
Here is a 416 word section on "Excursions Offer Glimpses of Architectural Treasures" in the style of Torsten Jacobi for your upcoming article on the new river cruise sailing to 20 Christmas markets in France:
Beyond the festive markets, this leisurely barge journey allows time to discover Alsace’s captivating blend of architectural influences through guided excursions to majestic medieval castles, soaring Gothic cathedrals, and picturesque villages dotted with candy-colored half-timbered houses.
According to Anne, who joined the cruise last year, “The excursions were wonderful little snapshots into the history and culture of each place we visited. Getting to see these amazing architectural highlights up close made the past come alive.”
In Ribeauvillé, a perfectly preserved medieval town, wander the ramparts that have encircled the village since the 13th century as you imagine bowmen and knights that once guarded these walls. Stroll lanes lined with 16th century houses painted in whimsical shades of sky blue, daffodil yellow, and hydrangea pink.
Throughout Alsace, find Gothic cathedrals towering over village squares, including the 15th century Église Saint-Martin in Colmar and Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, one of Europe’s most opulent Gothic masterpieces dating to the 12th century.
Beyond urban landmarks, visits to rural enclaves showcase charming medieval architecture. In Eguisheim, a village seemingly frozen in time, discover narrow lanes dotted with half-timbered homes encircled by grapevines. Its layout dates back to its 9th century founding.
Walled towns like Riquewihr transport you back to the Middle Ages as you stroll cobbled lanes past storybook buildings with checkerboard façades and whimsical turrets that housed archers protecting the village.
According to James, who visited last December, “Getting a private tour of the castle really made me feel like royalty walking through those incredible medieval halls and battlements. I could imagine knights and ladies wandering the same stones.”
Excursions also provide a close-up look at the unique local architectural technique of colombage, multi-storied half-timbered houses dotted around Alsace. This method using exposed oak beams and red clay infill originated in the Middle Ages. Discover the patterns created through intricate joinery techniques.
Ooh La La! New River Cruise Sails to 20 Christmas Markets in France - Trip Concludes with Celebration in Strasbourg
After meandering through charming villages and timeworn cities, the barge cruise concludes with several days exploring Strasbourg, allowing an in-depth discovery of Alsace’s cosmopolitan capital bathed in joyful Christmas splendor.
As the official seat of the European Parliament, this vibrant, forward-thinking city exudes modern excitement while still retaining its medieval heart. The barge docks in the old quarter, steps from the grand Gothic cathedral and arched bridges over the River Ill.
The Hansel and Gretel-esque Petite France neighborhood charms with cobblestone lanes, candy-colored half-timbered houses, and a lively waterfront bustling with inviting brasseries. The stately 17th and 18th century buildings lining the sweeping Place Kléber evoke the city’s French grandeur.
But Strasbourg also embraces its Germanic roots, including one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe surrounding the soaring cathedral. For centuries, residents have flocked here to buy gifts, nibble holiday treats, and welcome in the festive season.
The enormous Great Christmas Tree on Place Kléber is adorned with over 40 miles of sparkling lights and hundreds of crystal ornaments. Brass bands perform holiday carols as shoppers browse hundreds of stalls selling handmade ornaments, decorations, toys, and local crafts.
Towering above it all, the cathedral’s single spire seems to pierce the heavens. Dating back to 1015, this UNESCO site unveils an awe-inspiring interior with carved choir stalls, towering pillars, and the world’s oldest working astronomical clock.
Don’t miss a tour of the Palais Rohan, an 18th century palace housing collections of fine arts, porcelain, and artifacts reliving Strasbourg’s cross-cultural history. Wander the elegant neighborhoods lined with stately townhouses built for nobility where lavish décor spills out of windows.
In the evenings, live music and dancing spill from cozy wine taverns. The scents of roasting chestnuts and gingerbread permeate the air as residents celebrate the enduring spirit of the season.
On the final evening before departing, gather with newfound friends under the glow of the grand tree on Place Kléber. Raise a mug of steaming mulled wine in a nostalgic toast to Christmas in Alsace as the melodies of “Stille Nacht” echo through the streets.