2025 Memorable Anniversaries with CroisiEurope River Cruises

The Treasures of the Loire: A Decade Cruising Through Nature and Legends

The Loire, Europe’s last wild river, is a living testament to both nature and history. Since 2015, CroisiEurope has been offering an exceptional experience aboard the MS Loire Princesse, a paddlewheel boat specially designed to navigate the Loire’s shallow waters. It was the first French cruise ship to sail along this remarkable river.

As you cruise, immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of the Loire Valley. Uncover hidden treasures, from Viking secrets to the legends of the Loire castles, and experience the magic that has inspired stories for centuries.

The Hidden Treasures of the Loire: Viking Legends and Lost Riches

The Loire River, known today for its beauty, once echoed with the clash of Viking raids. In 843, Norse warriors stormed Nantes during St. John’s Day, killing the bishop and pillaging the city. They camped near the river’s mouth for years, amassing gold, relics, and sacred objects.

But legend says some ships sank with their treasure, while others dumped riches into the river to avoid capture. Though Viking coins and weapons have been found, no full treasure has ever been recovered, thanks to the Loire’s shifting sediments. To defend against these invasions, locals built motte-and-bailey castles, early forms of the Loire châteaux we admire today. Cruising with CroisiEurope lets you uncover these powerful stories, where every river bend holds a whisper from the past.

The Lady of Brissac: A Timeless Ghost in the Loire Valley

Rising tall in the Loire Valley, the Château de Brissac is France’s tallest castle and has stood since the 11th century. Home to the Brissac family since 1502, it remains a private residence today. But behind its grandeur lies a tragic tale.

In 1477, Jacques de Brézé, then lord of the castle, discovered his wife, Charlotte de Valois, in an affair with a squire. In a fit of jealousy, he killed her. Since that stormy night, legend says Charlotte never left. Known as “The Lady of Brissac” or “The Green Lady,” her ghost is said to haunt the chapel tower, clad in green, appearing during storms. Her presence is part of the castle’s enduring mystery—and a haunting highlight of Loire lore.

Venice and Its Mysteries: 25 Years Sailing the Serenissima

For 25 years, CroisiEurope has explored the heart of Venice aboard the MS Michelangelo—a ship designed to sail close to the city's soul. We’re the only cruise company still allowed to dock within walking distance of St. Mark’s Square, offering rare access to the true Serenissima. This intimate journey reveals more than postcard views. It invites you into Venice’s legends—from its divine founding in a lagoon to the hidden tales of its palaces, canals, and gilded halls. With every sail, the city whispers its ancient secrets.

The Divine Creation of Venice: A City Born of Legend

Venice, also known as the Serenissima, rises from the Venetian Lagoon as a testament to human resilience and divine inspiration. Its unique foundation, built on marshy waters, symbolizes a meeting of nature and ingenuity.

Legend says that in the 5th century, as barbarian invasions ravaged Italy, the gods led the people of Veneto to the Venetian Lagoon, offering them natural protection in its inaccessible waters. Inspired by this divine guidance, the first settlers built a city on stilts, taming the lagoon’s challenges with innovative techniques.

Another legend claims that St. Mark had a prophetic dream during his visit, foretelling that his relics would rest in Venice. Today, Venice stands as a symbol of both resilience and divine favor, with its canals and palaces echoing the sacred, legendary origins of this magnificent city.

The Curse of Ca’Dario Palace: Venice’s Dark Legend

Ca’Dario Palace, located on Venice’s Grand Canal, is both a masterpiece of 15th-century architecture and a haunting enigma. Built by architect Pietro Lombardo for Giovanni Dario, the palace’s elegant facade hides a chilling legacy of misfortune.

Legend claims that anyone who owns Ca’Dario is cursed. It began with Marietta Dario, Giovanni’s daughter, who allegedly took her life after her husband’s betrayal and financial ruin. Since then, every owner of the palace has faced tragedy: lost fortunes, mysterious deaths, and even Charles Briggs, an American businessman who reportedly took his life in the 1940s.

Though some dismiss the tale as an urban legend, others swear by the haunting whispers and shadowy figures seen in the palace’s windows. Whether fact or fiction, Ca’Dario remains an intriguing mystery for both locals and tourists alike.

The Rhône: A Journey Through History and Legends

For 30 years, CroisiEurope has been offering unforgettable cruises along the Rhône River. Aboard our intimate ships, discover the beauty of the Rhône Valley, from vineyards to historic cities like Lyon, Avignon, and Arles. Sailing the Rhône is more than just a cruise—it's an adventure where history and legends come to life, offering a deeper connection to one of Europe’s most iconic rivers.

Hercules in the Rhône Valley: A Mythic Legacy

Among the many legends of the Rhône Valley, the tale of Hercules stands out, showcasing the hero’s strength and courage. During his twelve labors, Hercules was tasked with capturing the bulls of Geryon. His journey took him across Europe, with the Rhône River presenting a major obstacle. Legend says Hercules either built a raft or swam across the river, leaving a lasting mark on the landscape.

On the left bank of the river, Hercules encountered two giant brothers, Ligur and Albion, who blocked his path. Despite their invincibility, Hercules battled them with divine assistance. Jupiter, the king of the gods, sent thunderbolts to aid the hero, helping him defeat the giants.

This epic battle symbolizes the power of the Rhône Valley. Some even believe the Mistral winds, which sweep through the region, are the divine breath of Jupiter, echoing the thunderbolts that aided Hercules. Today, Hercules’ legend continues to inspire those who visit the Rhône Valley, a region where myth and nature intertwine.

The Mysteries of Île Barbe: Legends and Hidden Treasures

Located just north of Lyon, Île Barbe on the Saône River is steeped in legend and mystery. From hidden treasures to druids and Charlemagne’s library, this island has inspired stories for centuries.

The island’s name, derived from the Latin “barbarian island,” hints at its wild, untamed nature. It’s said that Celtic druids once performed bloody rituals here, though there’s no concrete evidence to confirm this dark past. The name likely reflects its geography and hermit inhabitants.

One of the most enduring legends is that the island shelters the Holy Grail. According to folklore, Longinus, the soldier who pierced Christ's side, founded the island’s first chapel, and monks later hid the Grail underground to protect it from invaders.

Another tale suggests that Charlemagne’s library was once housed on the island. In 811, Charlemagne granted the island the status of lordly abbey, filling it with precious manuscripts that attracted scholars from across Europe. Today, Île Barbe is home to a few residents and welcomes visitors who come to explore its rich, mysterious history.

A Journey Through Time and Legend

While many of the tales surrounding the Loire, Rhône, and Venetian Lagoon are steeped in legend, the waters we sail on are filled with timeless magic. These rivers are not just waterways—they are witnesses to great epics, mysteries, and cultural milestones that have shaped civilizations.

In 2025, we invite you to join us on exceptional cruises, where each stop uncovers a piece of history and legend. Come celebrate with us the anniversaries of our journeys along these majestic rivers!