Rhône boat picturesque tourism 

‘Mr Loudon was informed that a boat goes three times a week from Lyons to Avignon and takes two days. It is called a coche d'eau and like a barge. It is a sort of floating wooden house: a Noah's ark. It is inexpensive, but has small port holes instead of windows so that the country can hardly be seen. Mr Loudon decided it would be better to hire an open boat.’ € This is a quote from The Claudians: gardens, landscapes, reason and faith: John Claudius Loudon and Claudius Buchanan, Tom Turner (Kindle, 2024). 

More about the Rhône 

The river, with its gorges, vineyards, and historical sites, attracted many grand tourists seeking a picturesque experience. It was a relatively comfortable alternative to the often-rough and dusty land journeys of the time. Flat-bottomed barges were adapted for passenger transport, offering basic amenities like cabins and dining areas. Small sailing boats were used for shorter trips or private excursions. Travel times could be slow and amenities on board could be basic, especially on barges. Typically, boats were carried downstream by the flow in the river and pulled upstream by teams of oxen or horses.

Boats and Travel Experiences on the Rhône

The Rhône itself played a significant role in attracting tourists seeking a picturesque experience. The river's diverse landscape, featuring dramatic gorges, sprawling vineyards, and historical landmarks, offered a captivating backdrop for travelers. Compared to the often-harsh realities of land travel at the time, the Rhône provided a more comfortable and visually stimulating alternative. While barges offered some conveniences, Loudon's choice highlights the importance some travellers placed on maximizing the scenic value of their journeys.