viking.com | 13
SEINE
Rouen
Le Pecq
Paris
Omaha Beach
Brussels
FRANCE
BELGIUM
–
C r ui s e
•• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••
M o to r C o ach
••
O ve r night in Po r t
VIEW
VOYAGE
GETTING THERE: Consider our new
similar voyage, 8-day Christmas time
in Paris & Normandy sailing between
Paris and Rouen in 2025 & 2026.
C H R I S T M A S I S S U E 2 4
hike up to the ruins of Château Gaillard, built
on the orders of Richard the Lionheart, which
we had seen looming above the river a couple
of days before. This time we had a sweeping
view of the Seine and our ship far below.
On board Viking Fjorgyn, the atmosphere was
jolly and festive. The chefs ensure there are
regional dishes on the menu such as Marmite
Dieppoise — a Normandy fish stew — and
tarte au citron. On one day, we learned how to
make the tangy dessert with a fun
demonstration.
One big advantage of winter cruising with
Viking is the Aquavit Terrace at the front of the
ship. Wraparound windows and comfy sofas
meant I could watch the passing scenery and
river activity in warm comfort, though I did
don my coat and gloves on several occasions
to enjoy the journey from the panoramic sun
deck.
France's Christmas markets are a delight—and
they are readily matched by those in Germany,
Austria and Hungary, which can be
experienced on Viking's Rhine and Danube
itineraries.
The flavours and aromas may be slightly
different—think sausages and sauerkraut—but
the enchantment is just as high.
Many markets are set in squares and streets
lined by wonderful old half-timbered
buildings. The glühwein is often served in
decorative mugs and there's a fondness for
beer, too. Look out for gifts made from wood,
wool and glass.
Listen, too, for the sounds of traditional music
or perhaps the haunting tones of a choir and
you'll add another pleasing sense to those
colourful sights, rich tastes and enticing scents.
Clockwise: Winter
in Paris in the snow.
Christmas Mulled
wine; Decorated
Christmas tree and
cathedral in Rouen
BONUS
RECIPE
