March 27
Last night we left Arles and sailed back to Avignon. Avignon is the only city in France that is completely surrounded by the original wall, built centuries ago. On our walking tour today, we visited the 14th century Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic building in Europe. It is protected by walls up to 18 feet thick. Today it houses a national museum.
After a two hour walking tour of the city, it was back to the ship for lunch. I have to comment here that the food so far has been excellent, and the service outstanding. Viking has really stepped up and it shows. Wine is served freely for both lunch and dinner, and if there is anything that you want and do not see, simply ask.
After dinner the wife stayed on the ship and I took a bus tour to the town of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, which happens to be one of the best wine regions within France. The area one of the first regions certified under the Appellation Controlee rules in France. 18 Variety of grapes can be grown in the region, and the rules further define the area and management of the vineyards, harvest dates, yields, minimum alcohol levels, and vintage labeling.
During dinner tonight, we sailed for the town of Viviers, where we will dock overnight and then move on to Tournon.
After arriving at Viviers, we went out on a short evening walking tour of the town. Very interesting, but it is very hilly and a lot of cobblestone walkways, so keep this in consideration if you decide to try it. Again, my apologies for no pictures, but my computer is still giving me fits when I try to download, so I am not even going to try anymore.
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