Saint John’s Abbey Travel Tours

Abbey Travel Tours' primary goal is to give old and new friends of Saint John's Abbey an opportunity to journey around the world to explore faith, experience different cultures, appreciate art and architecture, and learn something of our history and that of the nations we are touring. And do this while strengthening their love of Saint John's and forming some wonderful friendships with fellow travelers.

We are thrilled to announce a new 2026 itinerary for Saint John’s Abbey Travel Tours! Please join us on a Douro River Cruise, April 19–May 1, 2026. We anticipate this pilgrimage selling out, so mark your calendars now!

Begin your journey in Lisbon and then Fátima, where pilgrims commemorate the religious events of 1917 when three shepherd children reported several apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. You will then embark on a Douro River cruise with AmaWaterways. Rambling vineyards and charming farms cling to the steep side of the Douro River Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions. Sail roundtrip from Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges”; visit Regua, the ‘capital’ of the Douro Valley; and marvel at Salamanca, the UNESCO-designated “Golden City.” Taste wines from historic wineries and so much more!

Colors of Provence, France

Rhône River Cruise

April 25 - May 6, 2027
7-Night Cruise + 3-Night Pre-Tour of the French Riviera

AmaWaterways cruise on France’s Rhone River, including a pre-cruise tour with three nights in Nice, and an optional post-cruise tour with three nights in Paris (May 6-9)

Join Saint John’s Abbey Travel Tours in France’s Provence. From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Along the way, our host, Fr. Geoffrey Fecht, OSB, will have optional Morning Prayers or Mass, either onboard our ship or at some lovely French churches, which, in and of themselves, are often worth a visit just for the sense of culture, art and architecture.

Start your journey in Nice, a jewel of the French Riviera known for its turquoise waters. Nice will serve as your base for a tailored three-night land tour before the river cruise. You will visit Monaco, where luxury meets breathtaking coastal views, followed by exploring the medieval charm of Eze. Delve into the cinematic allure of Cannes and then explore the fragrant world of Grasse, the world's perfume capital, where you will visit a traditional perfume factory and learn the secrets of fragrance creation, from selecting precious raw materials to the intricate blending processes that produce France's finest perfumes. 

And then, Aix-en-Provence, often referred to simply as Aix, is a canvas of joyful impressions, featuring colorful festivals, festivities, and traditions, Provencal markets, delicious sun-filled delicacies, walks in the countryside, and relaxing activities.

Then lower your fantasies' drawbridge as you begin your cruise in Arles, where you'll embark on a luxurious 7-night Rhône River journey with AmaWaterways, seamlessly blending the Riviera's beauty with the scenic landscapes of Provence. Follow in the footsteps of famous artists like Van Gogh and Picasso. Explore Avignon, the former home of popes (1309 to 1377), a sprawling town with an impressive array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Palace of Popes, fascinating art museums, and historic charm. Finish your cruise in Lyon, France’s culinary capital, admire the beauty of legendary vineyards, and enjoy local wines like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. Experience the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, named after the renowned chef, called "the pope of gastronomy."

Finally, for those who choose, there is an optional post-cruise tour of Paris from May 6-9. This tour will include a panoramic tour of Paris landmarks, the Louvre Museum—home to an unparalleled collection of masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci's mysterious Mona Lisa and the ancient Greek sculpture Venus de Milo. You will visit the famous Montmartre district for a guided walking tour of this iconic hilltop artists' neighborhood, including the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica with its distinctive white domes and the charming Place du Tertre, where artists display their work. Your time in Paris will also feature an evening dinner cruise on the Seine. Of course, a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must, recently fully restored after its historic fire, and one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, as well as a symbol of Paris itself.

Let us take you on one of our quality, customized tours, which have been planned and perfected for over 40 years. 

Space is limited on this pilgrimage, so sign up today!

For additional information, a detailed itinerary, and registration, please have a look here: https://cvent.me/VMP1yB.