If you are passionate about gardening, a river cruise to the gardens of Europe is the perfect holiday. Discover the famous Japanese bridge and water lillies in the gardens of Impressionist Claude Monet’s house at Giverny on a cruise along the River Seine. Some itineraries also include a visit to the beautifully-landscaped formal gardens and orangery at the spectacular Palace of Versailles. There is often time at leisure in Paris, which is home to the colourful Luxembourg Gardens.
On a springtime cruise along the waterways of Holland and Belgium, admire the vibrant floral displays at the renowned Keukenhof Gardens. The region is a riot of colour in spring, with bright tulip fields set amongst traditional windmills and meandering canals. The annual spring flower show, Floralia, at Chateau de Grand-Bigard is also a popular event for gardening enthusiasts.
During a cruise along the UNESCO-listed Douro river, it is often possible to visit the Baroque-style Mateus Palace and its beautifully-landscaped gardens.