The Rhone River
The Rhone River is the biggest river in France in terms of depth and volume. It flows south from the Alps through the Massif Central, past the famous French cities of Lyon, Avignon and Arles. Navigation isn't as simple on the Rhone as on other bodies of water in France because of its swift current, but it's still an important waterway for commerce and tourism. Boating tours are common along the Rhone. Avignon attracts tourists to the historic Papal Palace, while traditional and cutting-edge restaurants abound in Lyon. Along the Rhone River you'll find the massive lavender and sunflower fields for which this area is known. Syrah, Voignier and other vineyards dot the countryside along the Rhone. Chateauneuf du Pape is both the name of a grape-growing area just outside the city of Avignon and the celebrated wine it produces.