Savoring the Rhone: A Journey Through France

Gordes a hilltop village in Provence

  S'il te plaît strolling through a sun-drenched vineyard in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a glass of velvety red wine in hand, as the scent of lavender drifts on the breeze. The medieval castle ruins in the distance whisper stories of centuries past, while your guide shares the secrets of the region’s world-renowned wines. Later, you’ll wander the cobblestone streets of Viviers, marvel at the Roman amphitheater in Arles, and indulge in a decadent Lyonnaise feast that will make you question why you ever settled for anything less than French cuisine.

This is the Rhone region of France—a place where history, culture, and gastronomy come together in perfect harmony. And this is the kind of experience I specialize in creating for my clients. Hi, I’m Jeff Bartlett, and along with my wife Allison, I’m the proud owner of Travel Marks Intl. Together, we’re not just travel advisors—we’re memory makers. Our passion is crafting itineraries that immerse you in the heart of a destination, and when it comes to the Rhone region of France, we know how to make every moment unforgettable.

The Rhone is a dream destination for anyone who loves history, food, wine, and culture. From the ancient Roman ruins of Arles to the culinary capital of Lyon, this region offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore Avignon’s Palais des Papes, a wine enthusiast ready to sip your way through the vineyards of Tain L’Hermitage, or a foodie on a mission to taste every morsel of Lyon’s famed bouchons, the Rhone has it all.

But let’s be honest—planning a trip like this can feel overwhelming. How do you decide which vineyards to visit? Which local markets are worth your time? How do you make sure you’re not missing out on the best experiences? That’s where I come in. With years of experience and a deep love for Europe, I take the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying the journey. One of my favorite ways to explore the Rhone is through a luxury river cruise. Imagine gliding down the river on a boutique ship, stopping in charming towns and villages along the way. With Riverside Luxury Cruises, Tauck, or Globus, you’ll enjoy five-star service, guided excursions, and plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the region.

And if cruising isn’t your style, I can design a custom itinerary that takes you from Avignon to Lyon, with stops in all the must-see spots—and a few hidden gems you won’t find in the guidebooks. Let me tell you about a recent trip I planned for a couple celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. They wanted a mix of history, wine, and relaxation, so I put together an itinerary that started with a private tour of the Palais des Papes in Avignon, followed by a wine-tasting experience in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

From there, they explored the charming streets of Viviers, took a cooking class in Lyon, and ended their trip with a romantic dinner cruise on the Rhone. They came back raving about the trip, saying it was the perfect way to celebrate their milestone. At Travel Marks Intl, we believe that travel is about more than just seeing the sights—it’s about creating moments that stay with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase.

That’s why we take the time to get to know you and your travel dreams. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a small group trip with friends, we’ll work with you to design an itinerary that’s as unique as you are. So, are you ready to fall in love with the Rhone? Let’s make it happen! Contact me today, and let’s start planning your journey through one of France’s most enchanting regions. Together, we’ll create a trip that’s filled with unforgettable experiences, from sipping wine in ancient cellars to savoring the best coq au vin you’ve ever tasted.

Trust me, the Rhone is calling—and you don’t want to miss it.