NEW PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE 2023 DOURO – SEINE – DANUBE RHINE/MAIN/MOSELLE – RHÔNE/SAÔNE EUROP EAN R I VER CRU I S E S The Next Generation: Sustainable, Flexible, Designed for All Ages CHANG I NG
YOUR INTERNATIONAL SALES TEAM DEAR READER , We look forward to welcoming you on board again, after a few challenging years. Even more of a reason to spoil yourself by taking a relaxing river cruise on board A-ROSA. Our award-winning newly built A-ROSA SENA excites with features that promise a plethora of enjoyment when exploring Europe’s finest rivers. A-ROSA SENA’s cabins are vastly larger than most. All suites and standard cabins offer spacious balconies with seating for two guests, and there’s plenty of space for families too, with generous five-berth family cabins and other child-friendly amenities. With outstanding dining and bar options, and enticing spaces to relax or to be active, A-ROSA SENA raises the bar on European river cruising. Finally, our focus on sustainability will make your stay on board A-ROSA SENA feel even more special. Thanks to a hybrid engine that switches from diesel to battery power, A-ROSA SENA can enter and leave ports with zero emissions and virtually noise free. So you can enjoy a greener way of cruising. Also new: this brochure, which we hope will renew your excitement in all-time favourite A-ROSA itineraries, and make you fall in love with some hand-picked new routings. Not only do we provide all essential information about our sailings in this brochure, but we also demonstrate how we have adapted in this ever-changing world. For example, find out more about our new Guest Relations Management, an innovative approach to liaise even closer with each and every guest and cater for individual needs and bespoke requests. Also new: our Destination Scouts! An industry first, these local experts are on hand to introduce their hometowns to you and share their insider destination knowledge to make your shore visit truly unique. We wish you a pleasant and relaxing journey. You have more than earned it. Yours sincerely, A-ROSA Service Center Phone: +49 (0)381 202 6000 Email: service@a-rosa.de International Sales Email: international.sales@a-rosa.de Marketing marketing@a-rosa.de International Group Department Group size >15 full-rate passengers Email: international.groups@a-rosa.de International Charter Email: international.charter@a-rosa.de www.arosa-cruises.com
A-ROSA INSIGHTS ___ 6–15 9 THE NEW PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE 11 A-ROSA APP 12 FLAGSHIP A-ROSA SENA 14 SUSTAINABILITY A-ROSA CITY EXPERIENCES___ 16–23 18 CITIES FROM A TO W 20 NEW: THE A-ROSA DESTINATION SCOUT 22 A-ROSA EXCURSIONS A-ROSA CULINARY DELIGHTS ___ 24–29 26 INDULGENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY 28 CRUISES FOR GOURMETS A-ROSA AND MULTI- GENERATIONAL TRAVEL ___ 30–35 32 A-ROSA: THE PERFECT MULTIGENERATIONAL CRUISE 34 FAMILY CABINS 4 A- ROSA DI SCOVERY CRUI SES
SPECIAL A-ROSA CRUISES ___ 44–53 46 NEW: SPECIAL & EVENT CRUISES 48 GOURMET CRUISES 50 E-BIKE CRUISES 52 FESTIVE CRUISES A-ROSA ITINERARIES AND PRICES ___ 54–143 56 DOURO 66 SEINE 78 DANUBE 98 RHINE, MAIN & MOSELLE 124 RHÔNE & SAÔNE 136 FESTIVE CRUISES GENERAL INFORMATION ___ 144–159 146 A-ROSA PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE RATE 148 POST-PROGRAMME AND PARTNER HOTELS 150 A-ROSA CLUB 152 ONBOARD ABCs 154 PACKAGE TRAVEL DIRECTIVE 155 ENTRY, DATA PROTECTION & LEGAL INFORMATION 156 INSURANCES 158 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS A-ROSA SERVICE AND WELLBEING ___ 36–43 38 CABINS AND SUITES 40 SPA-ROSA AND FITNESS 42 MULTIGENERATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT 5 CONTENT S
6
B E I T ADV E N T UR E , R E L AXAT I ON , E N J OYME N T, COMF ORT OR S U S TA I NAB I L I T Y: A - R O S A L E A D S T H E WA Y A-R O S A 2 0 2 3 7
PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE – REIMAGINED. 8 A- ROSA INS IGHT S
MO R E T H A N A L L I N C L U S I V E : T H E N E W A - R O S A F E E L For 2023, we have enhanced our popular “Premium all inclusive” concept. The new A-ROSA experience will raise the bar of choice and flexibility further, with even more inclusions and scope for personal customisation. New features and refinements await you. Come see for yourself! ¹ Exception: On the A-ROSA SENA, dinner à la carte is available at the SENA GRILL for a surcharge. ² Children up to 15 years of age travel free of charge on deck 1 when accompanied by at least one (two in Cat. G) supervising adult. From deck 2, Children receive a 30% discount. Different children’s discounts apply for A-ROSA ALVA and A-ROSA SENA. • INDULGE ALL DAY, EVERY DAY: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with live-cooking stations, as well as an embarkation snack and daily tea time. • NEW: At dinner, you have the choice between our signature gourmet buffet dining or an à la carte dinner¹. • HIGH - QUAL I TY DR INKS BY RENOWNED BRANDS : are included all day, every day. Tea, specialty coffees, water, soft drinks, beer and prosecco as well as a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks (also available outside dining hours). • NEW: Many cruises include culinary extras and regional specials with local food and drinks • NEW: A half day excursion, in which you’ll discover regional highlights during the day and have a special culinary experience onboard in the evening (for cruises of 7+ nights). • NEW: Special and event cruises in the off-peak seasons without extra charge • NEW: An even more comprehensive service concept thanks to our Guest Relations Management onboard and our Destinatination Scouts. • NEW: DAI LY VARY ING ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT. With local artists, up to twice a week (from 5-night cruises). • NEW: Price guarantee for bookings before 30.11.2022. • TRAVEL CANCELLAT ION INSURANCE INCLUDED FREE OF CHARGE FOR BOOK INGS UNT I L 30 .11. 2022 : Rebooking possible up to 30 days before departure. • INCREASED SUPER EARLY BOOK ING DI SCOUNT: valid for bookings before 30.11.2022 • CHI LDREN' S DI SCOUNT: CHI LDREN UP TO 15 YEARS OF AGE travel free of charge². More information and services can be found on page 146. 9 THE NEW PREMIUM ALL INCLUS I VE
10 A- ROSA INS IGHT S
A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES GETS SMART PLAN AHEAD COMFORTABLY WITH THE NEW A-ROSA APP Our new A-ROSA app offers even more service, anytime and anywhere. This gives you flexibility and full control over your individual cruise experience. Clear, convenient and always up to date. • TRAVEL PREPARATIONS. Before your holiday, you can use the app to find all the important information about the route, ports, the ship, and your cabin. The ship manifest can be filled out and sent off in just a few steps. And the calendar view gives you an overview of all the dates and even gives you a countdown for your departure if you like. • GUEST PROFILE. You can view all past and future bookings from the app and even see current bills. • EXCURSIONS AND OTHER EXTRAS ONBOARD. Whether before or during the journey, our app tells you exactly which excursions and spa treatments you can book. Simply browse, decide and reserve easily with the app. • DRINK ORDERS. Have you found the perfect spot on the sun deck and don’t want to risk losing it? Simply order yourself a drink from right there via the app. • MENUS. What's for dessert? With one look at the app, you'll know everything about the buffets and menus! • TRAVEL GUIDE WITH WEATHER FORECAST. What is the name of the castle on the shore? When does the market hall in the harbour open? With your app, you have a personalised individual guide in your pocket, designed for your journey, which will amaze you on the water as well as onshore. It even tells you whether you’ll need an umbrella or not. • FEEDBACK. You’d like to give a special thank you or make a suggestion how we can improve? We are always happy to hear from you! And our app will make this even easier by providing a convenient separate section designed for just this purpose. • NEXT CRUISE, PLEASE! You already know where you want to travel to next? The app will guide you through the booking steps. WHAT OUR APP CAN DO FOR YOU: YOUR FREE TRAVEL COMPANION ON YOUR SMARTPHONE THAT IS EASY TO USE AND GIVES YOU INFORMATION AND VALUABLE TIPS. 11 SERV I CE - CENTER AND A- ROSA APP
12 A- ROSA INS IGHT S
It’s good to have a clear position. You can explain it to others, write it down. You can even hang it in a nice frame in the foyer and point it out to everyone who passes by. We have built our position. Out of steel. It’s 17.7 metres wide, has four decks and went on its virgin voyage on the Rhine in May 2022. And our position even has a name: A-ROSA SENA. THE FLAGSHIP A-ROSA SENA LEADING THE WAY After all, the newest member of our fleet not only marks a completely new chapter in the A-ROSA story, it is also our way of significantly raising the bar on sustainable travel – for the future of the entire industry. The strategy behind it comes from our very own sustainability department, which works closely with the Fraunhofer Institute. The A-ROSA SENA is full of innovations from bow to stern. You will experience many of them on your cruise – such as when your ship lands almost noiselessly and without emissions. A wonderful way to greet the city that awaits you. This is made possible by a revolutionary hybrid propulsion system using diesel and electric engines with a battery storage system. You will discover a buffet that has been prepared with sustainability inmind: regional and seasonal fruit and vegetables exclusively from Europe, organic eggs and an increasing availability of organic meat, as well as MSC-certified fish. What’s more, there is a selection of vegan delicacies for you to enjoy at any time of day. Sophisticated concepts to combat singleuse plastic, packaging waste and food waste are also part of our approach. Another thing the A-ROSA SENA stands for is more space for each passenger, more style, more range and airiness; in short: more possibilities. There are several restaurants to choose from. There is more room for adventure in the very first Kids Club with its own rooms. And there are even more hand-picked excursions awaiting you ashore. Sounds pretty unique, right? It is. But it shouldn’t stay that way. After all, the best thing about the A-ROSA SENA is that while it is the first ship of this kind, it won’t be the only one. Our entire fleet will follow suit over the coming years. Soon, all our ships will be retrofitted with electric propulsion systems and be completely redesigned. This is a huge undertaking. But that is to be expected if we are to follow our aspirations at full speed and with all our hearts. 13 FL AGSHI P A- ROSA SENA
A- ROSA INS IGHT S 14
A-ROSA IS THE BEST EXAMPLE. Even though river cruises are often lumped together with ocean cruises, they actually have a completely different carbon footprint. Learn more about our company philosophy and environmental responsibility at A-ROSA. There is a lot going on at sea in terms of sustainability. Shipping companies are working hard to develop sustainable solutions. A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH is leaps and bounds ahead of them all as the market leader in the premium segment for cruises on Europe’s longest rivers – the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Rhône and Douro – for the last 20 years. Our proximity to shoreline landscapes and their inhabitants has increased our awareness of our responsibility to do everything we can to find climate-neutral solutions. “We take our responsibility very seriously. The existing prejudices are directed in particular at ocean cruises,” says the naval architect responsible for innovations at A-ROSA, Matthias Lutter. River cruising fleets are not only significantly smaller and carry around 200 passengers; “They are also one of the modes of transport with the smallest carbon footprint,” Lutter elaborates. “We use the same low-sulphur diesel fuel that cars and lorries do, but in very low quantities.” There are also promising concepts ashore: ships are to be run on onshore power as soon as they land in a port. “Our entire fleet is equipped to use this kind of power supply,” saysMatthias Lutter. The grid in western Europe has already been broadly expanded for this, and the company hopes that other ports will follow in the next few years. Cleaner and quieter With the new, innovative E-Motion ship, the company put its first hybrid into service in 2022. “We have optimised our hulls according to the computational fluid dynamics principle, so they consume as little fuel as possible,” explains the expert. “We have also installed a combination of a diesel engine and a large battery pack, which makes it possible to turn off the engine before the ship enters the port,” he says, summing up the concept. This technological leap is a bonus for noise levels too: thanks to the battery, noise in the port is reduced – on top of the fact that river cruise ships generate far less noise pollution than lorries anyway. While the ships are permitted to emit 65 decibels, the upper limit for a lorry is set at 85 decibels. Fully cleared and free from toxins Everything seems to be calibrated towards reducing the consumption of resources with A-ROSA. The ventilation systems – the second-biggest energy consumers on board – have been optimised to facilitate total heat recovery. What’s more, the entire fleet is equipped with ultramodern waste water systems. “The water is completely purified and free of pollutants,” says Lutter. The leftover sludge is disposed of at large ports by a specialist company every three weeks. A bottle for everyone The company has also come up with a systematic approach to tackling plastic waste. The first generation of A-ROSA ships is equipped with a water dispenser, and more will follow. Each guest receives a reusable bottle so that they can get fresh water whenever they like. Guests also play an important role when it comes to food waste. “We have seen that many guests are now aware of the issue of food waste,” observes Tobias Rüdiger, Corporate Food and Beverage Manager at A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH. “We are seeing increasing acceptance for the fact that we don’t restock our buffets with large amounts of food right up to the last moment; instead, items are provided in smaller bowls depending on demand.” SUSTA INA BL E CRU I SING? I T ’ S POS SIBL E ! “WE HAVE SEEN THAT MANY GUESTS ARE NOW AWARE OF THE ISSUE OF FOOD WASTE.” “WE TAKE OUR RESPONSIBILITY VERY SERIOUSLY.” 15 SUSTA INAB I L I T Y
16
A-R O S A C I T Y E X PE R I ENC E S T H E M E T R O P O L I S E S O F E U R O P E H AV E E X I S T E D F O R M I L L E N N I A. B U T W I T H A - R O S A T H E R E C A M E A N E W WA Y T O D I S C O V E R T H E M . 17
Amsterdam The canal city with the lively street life Budapest Habsburg splendour meets Hungarian charm Koblenz A young cultural scene right around where the Rhine and Moselle converge Paris The most beautiful city in the world, some might say Strasbourg Half-timbered meets Gothic, beer meets wine Antwerp Belgium’s diamond city close to the North Sea Bucharest A city full of winding streets and contrasts Porto Home to Port wine and sunshine right by the Atlantic Ocean Trier Old Roman city, UNESCO World Heritage Site and somehow just cool Frankfurt The Manhattan of museums, bars and cafés CAN’ T EXPERIENCE MORE THAN THIS. YOU LIKE CITY BREAKS? THEN YOU’LL LOVE A-ROSA! We do not just dock in the ports of classics such as Paris, Budapest, Amsterdam and Vienna, we also reach newcomers of the city break scene like Rouen, Porto and Rotterdam. See for yourself: We have put together a selection, from A for Amsterdam to W for Würzburg. 18 A- ROSA C I T Y EXPER I ENCE
Cologne Cosmopolitan and modern metropolis on the Rhine Lyon The city that is 2000 years old and is the third largest city in France Rouen Half-timbered, Gothic and the pride of Normandy Würzburg The city that has stayed young despite its 1400 years of history Vienna A mix of coffee culture, classical music and art Bratislava Rococo grandeur with Mediterranean flair Belgrade Serbia’s cultural metropolis, the city that never sleeps Düsseldorf A city offering anything between “Altbier”, Haute Couture and its Old Town Linz Known for its famous Austrian Linzer cake Rotterdam Has the architecture from tomorrow and artists from around the world 19 C I T I ES FROM A TO W
C I T Y C O N N O I S S E U R S I N S T E A D O F C I T Y G U I D E S There are almost endlessmagical moments on our cruises that will become lasting memories to take home with you. Maybe it’s the friendliness of the crew on board that you will remember fondly. Perhaps it’s the unique view from your cabin as the landscape outside slowly glides past you, giving you plenty of time to relax and free your mind. Or it might be something that happens on one of your shore excursions. After all, we offer something extraordinary. Ou r De s t i n a t ion Scou t s s u r pr i se e ven t he loc a l s . 20 A- ROSA C I T Y EXPER I ENCE
As of the new season, our DEST INAT ION SCOUTS will inform you about our amazing excursions and give you personal recommendations. You can enquire about special packages as soon as you are on board: Would you rather walk or cycle? Do you prefer culture or shopping? Our scouts don’t rely on the usual guidebooks; instead, they use their own experience as inspiration. They are happy to provide you with tips since they always know where to find a supercool gallery or the new craft beer brewery that doesn't even have its name above the door yet. Prepare to be surprised – not only by a new city but also by how you get to know it. INDIVIDUAL AND UNFORGET TABLE. 21 N EW : T HE A - ROS A DE S T I NAT I ON S COU T
OUT AND ABOUT E N R O U T E 22 A- ROSA C I T Y EXPER I ENCE
On an A-ROSA cruise, you now have many more excursions to choose from and find something you enjoy. There are 500 excursions in total, divided into six categories and four activity levels. DISCOVERY TOURS. This category includes all city bus tours, walking tours and sightseeing tours. A particularly fine example is the night-time tour through Budapest. Lit up, the parliament building and Buda Castle look even more imposing. A new addition to the programme is a visit to the fascinating Dutch port city of Spakenburg, where you can really immerse yourself in traditional Dutch culture. ADVENTURE TOURS. As the name suggests, these excursions promise an adventure. An example is the themed tours that are sure to become long-lasting memories. Or why not try excursions with unusual modes of transport in extraordinary locations – like an exclusive boat trip through the Camargue? Experience a day full of unforgettable impressions. And don’t forget to say hello to the 10,000 flamingos that are at home here. BIKE TOURS. Whether it’s Amsterdam, known as the city of bicycles, or the rather tranquil city of Vienna, what could be better than doing as the locals do and exploring the area by bike? You can take a guided bicycle tour with a normal bike or an e-bike. FAMILY TOURS. If you’re travelling as a family, you’ll have special requirements for your excursions. That’s why we have expanded our programme in this area, too. There are now tours to several French theme parks, while Lyon Zoo welcomes young and old with an animal adventure and, just a stone’s throw from Bratislava, the knights at Devín Castle are standing to attention. GOURMET TOURS. There aren’t many places where you will eat and drink better than on board an A-ROSA ship. Never theless, there’s always something new to discover. And we’ll take you there – to the beer culture hotspots of Bamberg and Düsseldorf or the centres of Norman cuisine, the home of Camembert and Calvados. EXCLUSIVE TOURS. This category is new and promises experiences like no other. On our exclusive tours, we take care of the vehicle, driver and tour guide, so that all you have to do is sit back and enjoy. A few examples include: a Mediterranean cooking course with Chef Erik on the Rhône, surfing on the IJsselmeer in the Netherlands and stand-up paddleboarding in front of the chalk cliffs of Étretat in Normandy. As you can see, it’s not just the number of tours that has increased; we’ve raised the bar on originality and individuality, too. This means we can now offer you more choice and an even more exciting cruise experience. We hope you enjoy it! 23 A- ROSA EXCURS IONS
24
A-RO S A C U L I N A R Y E X P E R I E N C E E X P E R I E N C E N O T O N LY C I T I E S B U T A L S O N E W C U L I N A R Y D E L I G H T S. 25
W E L I K E T O P A M P E R O U R G U E S T S That's why we keep on surprising our guests with new and fresh ideas. Be it an extraordinary dish, a great wine recommendation or the fulfilment of a special request, we’ve got it all covered. Welcome to our restaurants, where we make sure you also get to taste your destinations on the Douro, Seine, Danube, Rhine or Rhône! A-ROSA Indulgence at a Bite: • SUSTA INABLE LIKE NEVER BEFORE: thanks to more regional ingredients, greater use of organic food, and avoidance of plastic and food waste. • INNOVATI VE LIKE NEVER BEFORE: due to the new ideas of our gourmet ambassador Oliver Edelmann. With late breakfast, vegan offers, as well as special welcome and farewell dinners. • DI VERSE LIKE NEVER BEFORE: more live cooking, free choice between gourmet buffet and dinner à la carte at the table. And: more options in the choice of restaurants - already available on the A-ROSA SENA. 26 A- ROSA CUL INARY DEL IGHT S
27 INDULGENCE AND SUSTA INAB I L I T Y
28 A- ROSA CUL INARY DEL IGHT S
Whether you're a self-confessed gourmet or simply love to eat, you might want to come aboard for one of our gourmet cruises. This cruise will take you along the Seine, the Douro, the Rhine or the Rhône – and definitely leave you with unforgettable culinary experiences. ON A GOURMET CRUISE! BRING YOUR PALATE Always on board: the menu of a renowned guest chef, who conjures up dishes in the onboard kitchen with fresh and regional ingredients. Also on board is our gourmet ambassador Oliver Edelmann with his team. He is personally responsible for all A-ROSA gourmet cruises, invites some of the best chefs from Germany and around Europe to these cruises and provides an exciting programme. For example, you can look forward to interesting lectures about the culinary traditions of the region you’re travelling, insights into specialities of the region – and, of course, tastings of food and wine under expert guidance are also part of the cruise. You can find our gourmet tours on pages 48-49. 29 CRUI SES FOR GOURMET S
30
A-R O S A A N D M U L T I G E N E R A T I O N A L T R AV E L A N E W G E N E R AT I O N O F T R AV E L L O V E D B Y E V E R Y G E N E R AT I O N 31
FIRSTLY: Families are more than welcome on board. Sounds obvious, but this is not always the case for other types of travel and destinations. A-ROSA loves families and therefore has lots of ideas that are fun for parents as well as their children. We offer excursion destinations that delight young and old alike, have a Kids Club where the children experience something new every day, a delicious and healthy buffet that is also for children, play areas on the sun deck and much, much more. SECONDLY: There is nothing quite like experiencing something new together to bring a family closer. Getting to know exciting metropolises, for example. Or a joint bicycle tour through unknown landscapes. Or simply lazing around together and letting the shore pass by. Since everyone is in the same boat, literally. THIRDLY: Every family member gets to enjoy their freedoms. An A-ROSA ship is a small cosmos full of possibilities. While the parents finish their breakfast in peace, the children are already in the Kids Club. Here they explore the ship, visit the captain on the bridge, bake pizzas, craft travel souvenirs and make friends. All guided and supervised by excellently trained children's and youth entertainers, of course. LASTLY: On ships as manageable in size as A-ROSA's, nobody gets lost. Here, everyone quickly gets to know each other, at least by sight. The atmosphere on A-ROSA cruises is exactly what families want: very familiar. HERE ARE A COUPLE OF REASONS: MAKING MEMORIES TOGETHER The kids are having the time of their lives, whi le the parents get their wel l-deserved time to rest. Usual ly, these things would be mutual ly exclusive. But not with A-ROSA! What’s the secret you might ask? How is it possible that fami lies come back af ter a 5- or 7-day cruise feeling like they have just had one of the best holidays of their lives and want to do it al l over again? 32 A- ROSA I S MULT IGENERAT IONAL
¹ Children up to 15 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one (two in cat. G) supervising adult on deck 1. From deck 2, children receive a 30% discount. The conditions for children’s discounts are different for cruises on the Douro and with the A-ROSA SENA.. The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself in the Premium all inclusive rate. Limited availabilities. Chi ldren up to the age of 15 travel for free.¹ 33 A- ROSA : THE PERFEC T MULT IGENERAT IONAL HOL IDAY
R o o m f o r e v e r y o n e ! 34 A- ROSA I S MULT IGENERAT IONAL
AT A GL ANC E • Free choice of cabin depending on availability • Up to 18.5m² in size • Double bed, sofa bed, extra bed • Two cabins with a connecting door that can be used as a family cabin • Toiletries and bathrobe included • Turndown service available on request • On most ships children up to 15 years of age travel for free on deck 1 A - ROSA SENA • Up to 28m² in size • Double bed, sofa bed, double bunk bed • Extra large storage space • Play and creative area • New Design concept You will find more detailed information about the family cabins on the respective ship pages in the itinerary section. Families are always in good hands with A-ROSA . The A-ROSA FLORA , for example, offers family cabins for up to four people. Other options: You book two cabins with a connecting door so that parents and children have their own area. On a l l sh ips, except for t he A-ROSA ALVA t here i s t he opt ion of an ex t ra bed or a sofa bed. And i f you need even more space, you can ask for a fami l y ca bin on t he A-ROSA SENA . A cabin with an unbelievable 28 square metres, a cosy double bed, plus a double bunk bed with pret t y f urnishing deta i ls and a sofa bed. There is also an ex tra play and creative area for the children – and al l of this in the new and friendly bright design of the new E-Mot ion ship. The family cabins on the A-ROSA SENA offer maximum comfort for all family members. For the children, there is more space to play and retreat options. 35 FAMI LY CAB INS
36
A-R O S A S E R V I C E A N D W E L L B E I N G WH E N Y O U F I N A L LY F E E L R E L A X E D, Y O U K N OW Y O U ’ R E T R AV E L L I N G W I T H A - R O S A 37
A- ROSA SENA • 21m² • Balcony with seating for two people • Double bed • New design concept C A B I N S FAMILY CABIN AT A GLANCE • Free choice of cabin depending on availability • Up to 16.5m2 in size • Most cabins have a Juliette balcony or a drop-down panorama window • Double bed • Flat screen TV, desk • Toiletries and bathrobes included • Room service included • Turndown service available on request 38 A- ROSA SERV I CE AND WELLBE ING
BALCONY SUITE ON A- ROSA ALVA , A- ROSA FLORA , A- ROSA SENA & A- ROSA S I LVA • Up to 29m² in size • Balcony with seating for 2 people • Walk-in closet, flat screen TV, desk, a selection of magazines, high-quality brand-name toiletries and bathrobes • A-ROSA FLORA, A-ROSA SENA & A-ROSA SILVA: Daylight bathroom and minibar included • SUITE SERVICE: Room service 7:00-22:00, laundry and ironing service, 24-hour butler service, fresh fruit daily, check-in and personal greeting as early as 12 noon, welcome champagne, Suite cocktail with the ship's management JUNIOR SUITES ON A- ROSA FLORA & A- ROSA S I LVA • Outside cabin with Juliette balcony • 21m² • Minibar included • Walk-in closet, flat screen TV, desk, a selection of magazines, high-quality brand-name toiletries, and bathrobes A-ROSA ALVA A-ROSA FLORA & A-ROSA SILVA A-ROSA FLORA & A-ROSA SILVA A-ROSA SENA You can find more information about the suites on the respective ship pages in the itinerary section. S U I T E S 39 CAB INS AND SUI TES
Drift into deep relaxation. A cruise with A-ROSA is the perfect moment for a revitalising spa ritual. INDULGENCE 40 A- ROSA SERV I CE AND WELLBE ING
FIT AND HEALTHY WITH A-ROSA • New cosmetics and health treatments in SPA-ROSA: facial treatment with Thalgo gemstone and Mahana sandbag massage • Certified cosmetics • Fitness and yoga courses • Bicycle trips, free e-bike hire depending on availability • Vegan and revitalising cuisines Beauty and wellness treatments for your body and soul await in SPA-ROSA. Why not try the spa treatment with whole-body exfoliation, a soothing poultice and a massage to round it all off? It doesn’t get better than this! Or how about a sauna session or two? You could let the landscape drift by serenely as your muscles submit to complete relaxation – that’s a very special experience. Are you more the sporty type? Welcome to our fitness s tudio. Here, you can push up your heart rate on the modern cardio equipment or quickly hone that six-pack before you give it a stress test at the evening buffet. And while we’re on the subject of food – you don’t have to forego contemporary, lighter dishes or good square meals on board either. We also offer vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Plus, on the new member of our fleet, the A-ROSA SENA, health, wellness and fitness have even more space. The extra-large SPA-ROSA has a Finnish sauna, whirlpool, ice cave, heat bench, spacious quiet room, large treatment rooms and a fitness area for endurance and weight training as well as yoga groups. 41 SPA- ROSA AND F I TNESS
IF YOU TAKE A TOUR OF YOUR MEMORIES, WHICH ONES STAND OUT? GOOSEBUMPS WHEN YOU LISTEN TO A CERTAIN SONG? A VERY SPECIAL EVENING? You can’t plan these moments, but you can inspire them. That’s exactly what we do at A-ROSA – for example, with our live entertainment. Every day, mostly in the evening, we invite you to enjoy a special highlight with us. It’s always extraordinary and in keeping with the cruising area. Hand-picked musicians are a fixed part of every cruise of five nights or more and allow the character of their home city or country to be heard in their own way. Our aim is to have artists on board who speak to every generation – or rather, sing to them. Take the singer-songwriter Angela Mair from Vienna: she has not only traditional songs in her repertoire, but also her own modern creations. Or Tamás Seres, who will come on board in Budapest and blend traditional Hungarian music with modern influences. There are also roaring sail-away and farewell parties. Tastings that will make Grandma into a Port wine connoisseur. Readings AT A GLANCE: • An entertainment programme for every generation • Modern local artists • Sail-away and farewell parties, as well as tastings • Exciting lectures to complement what you have experienced that will turn Dad into an expert on knights' castles. And concert films from international stars that will have feet of all sizes tapping along. From grandparents to parents and children, everyone agrees in the end. And there’s just one question standing in the way of perfect family harmony: What are we going to do tomorrow? ENTERTAIN YOU! LET US 42 A- ROSA SERV I CE AND WELLBE ING
43 MULT IGENERAT IONAL ENTERTA INMENT
44
A-R O S A UN IQU E C RU I SE S N O T O N LY I N C OM P A R A B L E B U T A L S O U N F O R G E T TA B L E: O U R S P E C I A L A N D E V E N T C R U I S E S , G O U R M E T C R U I S E S , O R F E S T I V E C R U I S E S 45
O N B O A R D A - R O S A : PHOTO STUDIO, WELLBEING WORKSHOPS, ART STUDIO We are taking you on a journey within a journey: Experience lectures, workshops and individual coachings with experts for different topics. Would you like to know how to take your holiday snapshots more professionally? Or do you want to take part in a meditation and yoga group? Whatever you can imagine, we have prepared something unique for you. Royal expert Michael Begasse Chief reporter of Gala magazine: Hendrikje Kopp 46 SPEC IAL A- ROSA CRUI SES
1 * ROYAL GLAMOUR 22.03. – 27.03.2023 RHINE CITY EXPERIENCES 01.11. – 05.11. AND 05.11. – 09.11.2023 MINI CRUISE VIENNA & BRATISLAVA Get the royal treatment on board! Royal expert Michael Begasse will be giving entertaining, informative and exciting talks featuring the latest stories about Europe’s royal families, scandals, and drama. He might even share a little bit of gossip. So let yourself be taken into the world of the royals by an insider, who has been up close and personal with the most popular royals. 2 * RICH AND FAMOUS 29.03. – 03.04.23 RHÔNE ROUTE RENDEZ-VOUS 15.11. – 19.11.23 RHINE MINI CRUISE MAIN & LORELEI Hendrikje Kopp is the Chief reporter of the German Gala magazine. Who better to tell sensational, quirky, and funny stories about the lifestyles of the rich and famous? Find out more about celebrities, the latest Paris fashion trends, or just let the society expert entertain you. 3 * MEDITATION 27.03. – 01.04.2023 RHINE CITY EXPERIENCES 04.11. – 09.011.202 AND 19.11. – 24.11.2023 DANUBE DISCOVERY Mental health expert and mindfulness coach Fabienne Bill will help you relax and learn to stay in the moment. She will take you through a guided meditation in the mornings. Experience your day more mindfully by doing small reflection tasks and discover completely new perspectives on yourself and your surroundings. 4 * NUTRITION AND YOGA 29.03. -03.04.2023, 09.11. – 14.11.2023 14.11. – 19.11.2023 DANUBE DISCOVERY Health coach Ulrike Homuth will help you eat more mindfully and tell you everything you have ever wanted to know about inner beauty and healthy ageing. Join her for a yoga session on board to start the day relaxed. 5 * DESIGN 20.03. – 25.03., 25.03. – 30.03. AND 30.03. – 04.04.2023 DANUBE DISCOVERY 03.11. – 07.11. AND 07.11. – 11.11.2023 RHINE MINI CRUISE MAIN & LORELEI 17.11. – 21.11.2023 AND 21.11. – 25.11.2023 MINI CRUISE VIENNA & BRATISLAVA Tanja Meyer is an illustrator. With the help of her templates, you create your own bags or personal cards – even without prior knowledge or skills – right on board. Finally – a holiday souvenir that will also be useful once the cruise is over and always remind you of the days you spent on the river. 6 * PHOTOS 21.03. – 25.03., 25.03. – 29.03., 09.11. – 13.11. AND 13.11. – 17.11.2023 MINI CRUISE VIENNA & BRATISLAVA 24.03. – 29.03.2023 ROMANCE ON THE RHINE 29.03. – 03.04.2023 EXPERIENCE THE MOSELLE 11.11. – 15.11.2023 RHINE MINI CRUISE MAIN & LORELEI 18.11. – 23.11.2023 RHINE CITY EXPERIENCES No more blurred photos or unflattering selfies! Join photographers Laura Schneider and Lisa Stelzel on board or accompany them on a day trip to find out how to turn your camera or smartphone into a tool that will let you take gorgeous snapshots. 7 * MUSIC 19.03.2023 – 24.03.2023 ROMANCE ON THE RHINE 29.03.2023 – 03.04.2023 RHÔNE ROUTE RENDEZ-VOUS 19.11. – 23.11.2023 RHINE MINI CRUISE MAIN & LORELEI We have joined forces with SofaConcerts and invited an array of remarkable artists to perform their songs in a cosy SofaConcerts atmosphere. You can look forward to spinetingling voices, emotional stories and dreamy music – not to mention songs that will make you want to get up and dance. Supposedly, you are able to learn the most when you’re relaxed. That’s a good thing because on board you can combine both of these things. On our Special and Event Cruises you have the opportunity to dive into interesting topics. And who knows, maybe you’ll even connect with new like-minded people. 47 NEW: SPEC IAL & EVENT CRUI SES
Take talented chefs with new ideas, some of the most beautiful destinations, plenty of regional culinary exper iences, a generous handful of informative and enter taining talks, tastings and excursions, and you’ve got an A-ROSA gourmet cruise. Plated up and accompanied by our culinary ambassador Oliver Edelmann: together with master sommelier Hendr ik Thoma, guest chefs and the A-ROSA team, he will send your palate on an unforgettable journey. OUR GOURMET CRUISES S A V O U R Y O U R J O U R N E Y : * Culinary ambassador _______ Oliver Edelmann RH I NE GOURME T ( SUN. , 15.10. 23 –SUN. , 22.10. 23 ) The art of cooking is a wonderful world, full of ideas and surprises. You will be served one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world on this cruise. The route takes in the valley of the Middle Rhine, a region full of steep vineyards, fairy-tale castles and medieval towns. Our guest chefs draw inspiration from their surroundings and combine wild herbs and flowers with regional ingredients. The result is a unique culinary experience that will create lasting memories of the cruise. You can find the exact route itinerary on page 111. INCLUDED IN THE CRUI SE : • A gourmet set menu, prepared by Ebbe Vollmer from the Michelin-2-star restaurant Vollmers in Malmö. Vollmer revolutionises traditional pub food with new ideas and sophisticated cooking methods. • An A-ROSA set menu with Oliver Edelmann and the A-ROSA team • Bread set menu with Oliver Edelmann and WildBakers Jörg Schmid and Johannes Hirth, the young rebels of baking world, known for their creative baking shows. • A wine tasting with master sommelier Hendrik Thoma who, among other things, will also arrange the perfect wine accompaniment to your cruise, alongside Lisa Kechel. • Dessert show act with TV star Christian Hümbs. RHÔNE ROUTE GOURME T ( SAT. , 20.05. 23 –SAT. , 27.05. 23 ) When you hear “Southern France”, it conjures up images straight away, right? Lavender fields, picturesque villages, endless beaches and plenty of sun. And which flavours are making your mouth water? Ratatouille and bouillabaisse, probably. But there’s more on the menu than that. Our guest chefs have made it their mission to surprise you with exquisite combinations of seafood and meat. You can find the exact route itinerary on page 128. INCLUDED IN THE CRUI SE : • Guest chef Thomas Martin (chef at the Louis C. Jacob hotel in Hamburg and rated “Chef of the Year” by Schlemmer-Atlas) will spoil you with his Carls Brasserie set menu. • A gourmet set menu, prepared by Tobias andMarco Wussler from the Ponyhof restaurant in the Black Forest, known for innovative cuisine with regional products. • A Provence set menu from Oliver Edelmann and the A-ROSA team. • A Drappier Champagne tasting with master sommelier Hendrik Thoma. • The “Rock en bateau” kitchen party. With a soundtrack of French music, you can stroll to local vintners, enjoy typical national dishes and experience experts, affineurs and chefs at work. • Hendrik Thoma and Lisa Kechel (designer, podcaster and wine connoisseur with her own wine brand) arrange the ideal wine accompaniment to your cruise. * Master sommelier _______ Hendrik Thoma 48 SPEC IAL A- ROSA CRUI SES
DOURO GOURME T (WED. , 04 .10. 23 –WED. , 11.10. 23 ) Close to Porto is the famous Alto Douro valley, the oldest protected winegrowing region in the world and the home of the grapes that are used tomake delicious Port wine. And this is exactly where this gourmet cruise will take you. Experience Portugal’s sunshine on your skin and on your palate. Three renowned wine experts will be on board with you. They take you into the world of local Port and table wines and have plenty of interesting facts to share. You can find the exact route itinerary on page 61. INCLUDED IN THE CRUISE: • Two vintner set menus, prepared by our culinary ambassador Oliver Edelmann and the A-ROSA team and accompanied by master sommelier Hendrik Thoma together with regionally renowned vintners from the Douro Valley. • Wine seminar with master sommelier Hendrik Thoma. • Excursion to and dinner at a typical quinta. • Pastéis de nata presentation and the traditional abertura a fogo opening and tasting of a vintage Port wine. SE I NE GOURME T ( THU. ,14 .09. 23 –THU. , 21.09. 23 ) Paris and Normandy bring haute cuisine, multiple courses and time spent with friends to mind. But did you know that Normandy is also known for the three Cs in terms of cuisine? This is where Camembert, cider and Calvados are produced and enjoyed with typical French joie de vivre, so it’s only fitting that you will encounter the three Cs often on this cruise. In addition, you can enjoy the outstanding culinary art of Oliver Edelmann and his team, as well as two guest chefs. You can find the exact route itinerary on page 73. INCLUDED IN THE CRUI SE : • Two gourmet menus, created and prepared by our guest chefs Miles Watson (head chef, food designer and culinary trendsetter from New Zealand) and David Görne (chef at the G.a. restaurant in Normandy and the first German to receive a Michelin star in France). • The brasserie set menu, prepared by our culinary ambassador, Oliver Edelmann and the A-ROSA team. • A cider tasting with master sommelier Hendrik Thoma. • The “Rock en bateau” kitchen party. With a soundtrack of French music, you can stroll to local vintners, enjoy typical national dishes and experience experts, affineurs and chefs at work. • Hendrik Thoma and Lisa Kechel (designer, podcaster and wine connoisseur with her own wine brand) will arrange the ideal wine accompaniment to your cruise. 49 GOURMET CRUI SES
PACKAGE PR I CES WHAT ‘ S INCLUDED Cycling is one of the best ways to get around and see even more on your holidays. You get to admire city centres, but you can also venture further and marvel at the beautiful nature in the surrounding areas. That’s why we are offering high-quality bike packages in cooperation with terranova. These packages can be booked as an extra on selected cruises. Our e-bike packages include a full-day excursion on the bike with a local guide who will show you the highlights of the area. 7 NIGHTS: € 745 per person 7 NIGHTS DOURO: € 845 per person Only available with A-ROSA Premium all inclusive bookings. MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 6 All cruises where a terranova bike package can be booked as an extra are marked (T). • Your rental bike: a terranova e-bike with saddle bag • All guided tours and entrance fees • A tour guide who knows the area, shares his knowledge and tips, and also helps you with technical questions about your bike • All-around service during the excursions: drink breaks, picnics, mineral water • Accompaniment by minibus with bicycle trailer and the possibility of hopping on • All transfers by bus or taxi during the excursions E - B I K E T O U R S with terranova 50 SPEC IAL A- ROSA CRUI SES
EXPERIENCE THE DOURO 7 NIGHTS A-ROSA ALVA BOOKING CODE April/May 26.04. – 03.05.2023 RADDOU May 03.05. – 10.05.2023 10.05. – 17.05.2023 August 16.08. – 23.08.2023 23.08. – 30.08.2023 October 11.10. – 18.10.2023 6 guided cycling excursions during the cruise • Visit to a Port wine bodega with tasting • Porto city tour & Rabelo boat tour • Return transfer to airport on disembarkation SEINE EXPERIENCE NORMANDY 7 NIGHTS A-ROSA VIVA BOOKING CODE May 04.05. – 11.05.2023 RADSEN June 15.06. – 22.06.2023 22.06. – 29.06.2023 August 17.08. – 24.08.2023 September 21.09. – 28.09.2023 6 guided cycling excursions during the cruise • All museums and/or guided tours: Paris, Monet's garden, Jumièges Monastery, Musée Rodin DANUBE CLASSICS 7 NIGHTS A-ROSA BELLA BOOKING CODE May/June 28.05. – 04.06.2023 RADDON June 04.06. – 11.06.2023 July 23.07. – 30.07.2023 August 20.08. – 27.08.2023 September 17.09. – 24.09.2023 5 guided cycling excursions during the cruise • All museums and/or guided tours: Klosterneuburg, Esztergom, Visegrád, Dürnstein • Including transfers from/to Passau main station (at a fixed time) RHÔNE ROUTE CLASSIQUE 7 NIGHTS A-ROSA STELLA BOOKING CODE April 22.04. – 29.04.2023 RADRHO May 06.05. – 13.05.2023 September 09.09. – 16.09.2023 23.09. – 30.09.2023 Sept./Oct. 30.09. – 07.10.2023 5 guided cycling excursions and a cultural day in Lyon during the cruise • All museums and/or guided tours: Lyon, Cluny Abbey, Avignon, Arles • Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape RHINE DISCOVERY AMSTERDAM & ROTTERDAM 7 NIGHTS A-ROSA SENA BOOKING CODE April 22.04. – 29.04.2023 RADRHE May 13.05. – 20.05.2023 June 17.06. – 24.06.2023 September 02.09. – 09.09.2023 5 guided cycling excursions during the cruise • All museums and/or guided tours: Cologne, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Dordrecht, Antwerp • Including transfers from/to Cologne main station (at a fixed time) Helmets are available to rent for € 10. Terranova has been the market leader of high-quality cycling tours for four decades. More information: www.arosa-cruises.com/terranova You can find more information at www.arosa-cruises.com/terranova. 51 E - B I KE CRUI SES
C E L EBR AT E I N NEW SURROUND I NGS F E S T I V E C R U I S E S Do Christmas and New Year’s Eve really have to be the same every year? Treat yourself to new impressions and experiences this festive season by celebrating the yuletide and ringing in the New Year on the Danube or the Rhine. Saunter through one of the most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe, where you can enjoy the local Christmas delicacies and encounter new Christmas traditions alongside the punch and roasted almonds. A new year means a new city. Why not pop the champagne corks in Vienna or Rotterdam? You will be amazed at how Europe’s metropolises transform into one big party. 52 SPEC IAL A- ROSA CRUI SES
DANUBE, see pages 138 –139 Nights Danube Christmas Markets 4 Danube Enchanting Christmas Markets 5 Danube Christmas 4 Danube Enchanting Christmas 5 Danube New Year's Dream 7 Danube Enchanting New Year's 7 RHINE, see pages 140–141 Nights Rhine Christmas Markets 5 Rhine Christmas Market City Experience 5 Rhine Enchanting Christmas 5 Rhine Christmas City Experience 7 Rhine Enchanting New Year's 6 Rhine New Year's City Experience 7 FESTIVE HIGHLIGHTS ON THE DANUBE The Pöstlingbergbahn mountain tramway in Linz: The old- fashioned tram climbs to the top of the 539-metre hill in Linz in 20 minutes. From the viewing platform, you have a wonderful panoramic view over the city, lit with twinkling Christmas lights. Christmas market in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest: It doesn’t get more festive than this. A huge Christmas market is set up in front of the neo-classical building with its huge dome. This is a wonderfully romantic location, especially when it is fully lit up in the evenings. Great photo opportunities are not just available in front of the basilica – you can also take impressive shots from its dome. The Wiener Silvesterpfad: is a Viennese New Year’s Eve event where the whole of Vienna celebrates with people from all over world. The heart of the city is transformed into one big party district. There are live concerts, shows and even attractions for children. In terms of music, there’s something for everyone – from rock and pop to waltzes. There’s plenty of culinary variety, too. And at midnight, thousands of people dance into the New Year to the sound of "The Blue Danube." FESTIVE HIGHLIGHTS ON THE RHINE A star-studded walk in Strasbourg: At Christmastime, the Quai des Bateliers, the promenade along the Ill river, is particularly idyllic. All the historical half-timbered houses, the bridges and trees are decorated with over 600 large stars. Mainz Christmas market: the next Christmas highlight awaits you here. The 11-metre high Christmas pyramid, which you can go inside of, is particularly impressive, with life-size nativity figures all carved by hand. Advent in Antwerp: What’s tastier than a chocolate Santa? A chocolate Santa made of Belgian chocolate and bought on the Steenplein, the square in the historical centre. Then it’s time for a turn on the Ferris wheel to see the festive atmosphere from above. “Gelukkig nieuwjaar!” in Rotterdam: Rotterdam is a colourful city all year round and New Year’s Eve is no different. On the contrary. The change of year is celebrated in the numerous clubs, bars and pubs, but there are open-air parties too. Midnight is welcomed with a glass of champagne and tasty oliebollen, the traditional doughnuts. Our fes tive crui ses are marked s i lver in our i tinerar y sec tion. 53 FEST I VE CRUI SES
54 Atlantic Ocean North Sea Paris Le Havre Vernon Rouen Les Andelys Mantes-la-Jolie Caudebec-en-Caux Lyon Mâcon Vienne Viviers Arles Avignon Port-Saint-Louis Chalon- sur-Saône Châteauneufdu-Pape Rhône Saône Porto Régua Pinhão Barca d’Alva Salamanca Vega de Terrón Douro Valley Lisbon Brussels Rotterdam Gent Antwerp Koblen Rüdes Trier Breisach Strasbourg Cochem Nijmegen D Arnheim Amsterdam Cologn Ba Moselle Republic of Ireland Spain Portugal France Switzerl Netherlan Belgium Luxembourg Utrecht Hoorn Lelystad PAST THE MOST BREATHTAKING CITIES IN EUROPE! WHERE DO WE CRUISE? SEINE DOURO RHÔNE/ SAÔNE A- ROSA I T INERAR I ES AND PR I CES
55 Black Sea MediterraneanSea nz sheim Mainz g Düsseldorf ne asel Loreley Main Frankfurt am Main Bamberg Main-DanubeCanal Würzburg Rhine Kehl Nuremberg Danube Cataracts Wachau Valley Danube Delta Munich Melk Linz Krems Bratislava Esztergom Budapest Kalocsa Mohács Vukovar Novi Sad Belgrade Oltenita Bucharest Tulcea Rousse Dürnstein Passau Engelhartszell Vienna Giurgiu Germany Poland Sweden Norway Lithuania Belarus Slovakia Hungary Moldova Serbia Croatia Slovenia Montenegro Marcedonia Kosovo Albania Greece Bosnia & Herzogovina Romania Bulgaria Lativia Estonia Denmark Czech Republic Austria Italy land nds Legend Airport Port of embarkation and disembarkation D O U R O R H Ô N E R H I N E D A N U B E S E I N E RHINE, MAIN & MOSELLE DANUBE Airport Port of embarkation and disembarkation LEGEND I T INERARY OVERV I EW
DOURO YO U R C R U I S E O N T H E 56 A- ROSA I T INERAR I ES AND PR I CES The Arrábida Bridge crosses the Douro between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Porto Régua Pinhão Lamego Barca d’Alva Vega de Terrón Salamanca ( JAN , GUEST ON A- ROSA ALVA) That moment when we realised that Porto is not the most beautiful city in Portugal. It's the most beautiful city in the world. D O U R O 57
H I GHL I GH T S ON T HE D O U R O 58 A- ROSA I T INERAR I ES AND PR I CES
Our DOURO EXCURSION PACKAGE : €164pp More info on page 60. H E R E ’ S TO A P O R T I N P O R TO . Still a little off the radar for the hordes of tourists, Porto combines culinary delights with history and culture – and it does this with the airiness of a coastal city, as Porto is situated where the Douro joins the Atlantic. The city can be lively, romantic and dreamy, as well as impressive. Take the Igreja da Trindade, the Holy Trinity church from the 19th century, where you can marvel at the marble interior with gilded woodwork. You are bound to leave the many small shops in Rua de Cedofeita with your purse a little lighter, while the artists’ studios of Rua Miguel Bombarda has plenty to entice you, too. YOU HAVE TO SEE : São Bento station, which is right in the city centre and once housed a convent. The azulejos, images on ceramic tiles, are well worth seeing.. YOU HAVE TO TRY: Bacalhau. It is said that the Portuguese have 365 recipes for dried cod – one for every day of the year. PORTO Our excursion to Spain takes you to one of the most beautiful and most important cities in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, university city and “golden city” – discover your favourite side of Salamanca. You can see it all, as most attractions are within easy walking distance, including the university, Plaza Mayor and Puente Romano. YOU HAVE TO SEE: La Casa de las Conchas, an imposing house built between 1493 and 1517 by a university professor and knight and decorated with 300 shells. Today, it houses the public library. YOU HAVE TO TRY: Hornazo de Salamanca, a meat pie filled with chorizo, jamón ibérico and marinated pork loin. Definitely not something for vegetarians. SALAMANCA The Alto Douro wine region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. It is certainly one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. This valley has been the home of Port wine for over 250 years, but winegrowing has been present here since the Bronze Age. There are also almond and cherry orchards and plenty of unspoilt areas like Parque Natural do Douro Internacional at Barca d’Alva. However, the highlight is and remains the visit to one of the 50 wineries, where you will be invited to take part in a wine tasting. YOU HAVE TO SEE: Casa de Mateus, a fine example of Portuguese baroque, about three kilometres outside of Vila Real. It’s no surprise if the building seems familiar – a picture of it is featured on the label of Mateus Rosé. YOU HAVE TO TRY: Sardinhas assadas. Whether you have them with wine or beer, grilled sardines are like having a slice of Portugal on your plate. THE ALTO DOURO VALLEY: D O U R O 59
www.rivercruises.beRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTQ5NjY=