7-NIGHT RHINE RIVER CRUISE 

This wine themed cruise aboard the luxurious AmaViola takes you from Amsterdam to Basel, blending exquisite culinary delights with enriching cultural experiences. 

Explore the enchanting region of Alsace, France, with memorable stops in Strasbourg and Riquewihr. Visit Breisach, perched above the Rhine’s vineyards, serving as the gateway to Germany’s enchanting Black Forest - uncovering their rich history through guided excursions. From Amsterdam's iconic canals to Germany's Black Forest, this extraordinary voyage offers the ultimate escape for wine lovers and travel enthusiasts alike. 

Hosted by Chuck & Sheri Bellante, Owners, Bellante Family Winery - Mission Viejo, CA 

Leigh Ann Arnholt WSET III with Carson Travel

COUNTRIES:  France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland

This trip is ideal for:  Those who enjoy low impact travel but if you want to get out and ride the complimentary bikes around the countryside you can!  Those who want everything included and are eager to be IN the destination while learning about the history, food and culture!  And on this journey wine and the winemakers!  Expand your knowledge as you travel through this beautiful part of the Rhine River and expand your palate while learning about new wines and trying some you may not have at home! Let's get out and explore together!

Leigh Ann Arnholt is the owner of Carson Travel.  She started her company in 2007 and has grown the company successfully with a strong team around her as well.  She has many achievements in her field but notably her love of wine and what goes into the bottle is her passion.  She loves traveling with others to the vineyards.  Learning along with the travelers and helping them learn and expand their palates, is one of her favorite things to do!  Her education to the WSET III level certification has allowed her to help in developing not only a deeper understanding of wine but open doors and relationships that help her build great itineraries and experiences for her clients. Farm to table to home; once a person experiences a wine or food in a destination, they will remember it forever! Travel. Wine. Repeat!

Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Captivating Rhine Celebration of Wine River Cruise!

Canal cruise tour, scenic cruising out of Amsterdam, Utrecht walking tour or beer tasting tour.

There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam to Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour.  

Düsseldorf Walking tour and Altbier tasting or Bike tour and Cologne walking tour

Explore Düsseldorf with a local tour guide or cover more ground with a bike tour through the city. Sample the best local brews with a German beer tasting experience. Additionally, visit the nearby city of Cologne—either independently or on a guided tour of its historic Old Town. 

Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising Gondola ride & wine tasting, Vineyards hike, Guided bike tour of the Rheingau Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet and 

Rüdesheimer Coffee .

Join a wine tasting to savor the unique flavors of the town's iconic vineyards. For a more active adventure, hike through the scenic vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the Rhine River. Later, treat yourself to a local specialty: Rüdesheimer coffee, a delightful mix of brandy, coffee, and whipped cream. 

“Romantic Heidelberg” excursion, “Secrets of Speyer” tour, Heidelberg Philosopher’s hike or Ladenburg bike tour.

Ludwigshafen serves as a gateway to exciting excursions. Explore Heidelberg, a beautifully preserved medieval city, and marvel at its red sandstone castle and Great Vat. Opt for a guided bike tour to enjoy panoramic views of the city or ride along the Neckar River. Discover the charming medieval town of Ladenburg with its unique shops, or visit Speyer, one of Germany's oldest cities, rich in history and character.

“The Gem of Alsace” tour & Alsatian wine tasting or Strasbourg bike tour. 

Strasbourg blends the flavors of France and Germany due to its unique border location. Take a tour past landmarks like Parc de l'Orangerie, the European Parliament, and Place de la République before exploring the iconic "La Petite France" district. Known for its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque canals, it is a must-visit for its charming architecture and romantic ambiance. Alternatively, enjoy a guided bike ride through the city. Later, indulge in a special Alsatian wine tasting.

Riquewihr walking tour & wine tasting, Kaiserstuhl Vineyard hike, or Breisach wine country bike tour. 

Step back in time and explore the Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which has preserved its 16th-century charm. On your walking tour, admire the historic architecture and iconic sights like the Dolder Gate, and enjoy a visit to a winery to sample locally produced Alsatian wines. Next, head to Freiburg, a vibrant city known for its stunning Freiburg Minster, a Gothic cathedral with breathtaking views from its tower. For those seeking a more active excursion, cycle through the picturesque countryside or hike in the Black Forest. 

 **Note: The Black Forest hike is weather dependent. 

Disembarkation: Following breakfast, say goodbye to Switzerland as you get ready for your return flight home. 

Safe travels!