What do you get when you mix 39-degree sunshine, fairy-tale towns, riverside relaxation, and a dash of Black Forest cake? A river cruise to remember!
My colleague Katharine and I recently had the pleasure of spending a few glorious days aboard Emerald Sun, and let me tell you, river cruising is a whole different kind of magic. It’s slower, more scenic, and full of little moments you just don’t get on a typical holiday.
Day One: Arrival in Style (and Heat!)
We arrived in sizzling heat, 39°C to be exact, but were soon cooled down with a refreshing welcome aboard. After a gorgeous lunch, we toured the ship, got settled into our cabins, and then enjoyed a fabulous evening meal.
That evening, Emerald treated us to something really special, a private concert at Bruchsal Palace, exclusively for Emerald guests. It felt like we were living in a period drama (minus the corsets, thankfully).
Best of all, all the excursions on Emerald Cruises are included but totally optional. Want to explore? Great. Want to lounge on deck with a book and a cold drink? Also great.
Day Two: Border Hopping & Beer Tasting
We woke up to a small delay arriving into Kehl, which actually turned out to be a bonus, it meant we got to watch Emerald Sun navigate a lock! Surprisingly fascinating, and a great reminder of how unique river cruising can be.
One fun quirk: river ships sometimes dock side by side, so to get ashore, you might walk through another ship. When we opened our curtains, we found ourselves window-to-window with a lovely pair of ladies from Texas, cue a spontaneous chat and a quick selfie through the windows!
That day we hopped across the border into Strasbourg, France for a walking tour through the charming streets, ending at the breath taking Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg. We rewarded ourselves with a chilled Summer Beer (berries and elderflower, don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it).
Back on board, it was a German-themed lunch, a little sun-deck siesta, and then preparations for the big farewell dinner and party. Emerald hosts it a night early so everyone can enjoy without worrying about early departures. Glorious tasting menu, “jukebox jury” fun, and cocktails with new friends, the perfect night.
Day Three: Black Forest Bliss
On our final full day, Katharine and I headed into the charming city of Freiburg, considered the Capital of the Black Forest. It was everything we’d hoped for: buzzing markets, sausages sizzling in the sun, and real Black Forest cake (worth every bite).
We learned about the Freiburg Bächle, little streams that run through the city. According to local legend, if a single person accidentally stumbles into one, they’re destined to marry a Freiburger. We didn’t fall in… but we might’ve dipped our toes just in case!
That afternoon, we took it slow. We finally made it to the onboard heated pool with its retractable roof (which transforms into a cinema in the evenings – genius), and were treated to a lively cowbell performance by a Swiss duo. Quirky, joyful, and thoroughly entertaining.
Saying Goodbye (Reluctantly)
On our final night, we found ourselves back on the sun deck, cocktail in hand, watching the river drift by in the golden light. It was calm, beautiful, and a perfect way to end the trip.
We said goodbye to Emerald Sun, but not before falling head over heels for the rhythm of river cruising. It’s relaxed, it’s full of flavour (culinary and cultural), and it really does give you a front-row seat to some of Europe’s most beautiful towns and cities.
Thinking about a river cruise? Katharine and I would 100% recommend it, especially if you love the idea of unpacking once, seeing multiple destinations, and being truly looked after. It’s everything a holiday should be relaxing, enriching, and full of surprises (and cake).
If you’re feeling tempted – don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Katharine: 01572729915
Emma: 01146990100