LUXURY BARGE CRUISING IN FRANCE

As a guest aboard one of these charming barges, you’ll have access to some of the most stunning and varied areas of France. With its seemingly endless waterways and exquisite culinary and wine offerings, France sets the ideal scene for your luxurious week-long barge cruise. Itineraries are regularly refreshed to offer guests new and unique experiences to discover each year.

France cruise map

Bordeaux, is a fascinating destination known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. As the wine capital of the world, it features beautiful vineyards and prestigious wineries, making it a haven for wine lovers. The city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases stunning 18th-century architecture, including the Place de la Bourse and Grand Théâtre. Its vibrant cultural scene includes museums, art galleries, and a lively waterfront along the Garonne River. Food enthusiasts can savor local delicacies like canelés and entrecôte à la Bordelaise. Bordeaux offers an unforgettable blend of elegance and rustic charm.

Chateau of Josselin Brittany

Coming Soon! Cruising along the Nantes à Brest Canal between Josselin and Redon, you are immersed in the serene beauty of Brittany’s lush landscapes and charming villages. The gentle glide of the barge allows you to soak in the picturesque scenery, from the verdant hills to the historic stone cottages lining the banks. Each day unfolds like a beautifully curated itinerary, featuring leisurely excursions to explore quaint towns, taste exquisite local delicacies, and sip on the region’s finest wines.  As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, and the ambiance on deck invites intimate conversations and laughter, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activities. Completed in the 17th century, it connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and showcases remarkable engineering. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, cycling, and various water sports while indulging in the region’s excellent wines and delicious cuisine. Charming villages like Carcassonne and Béziers line the canal, each offering unique culture and history. The tranquil atmosphere provides an ideal escape from city life, and nature lovers can appreciate the area’s rich biodiversity. Overall, the Canal du Midi is a destination that beautifully combines history, culture, nature, and relaxation. 

Champagne glasses

Champagne, famous for its sparkling wines, is a captivating region in northeastern France, rich in history and picturesque villages like Reims and Épernay. Reims boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and a royal history, while Épernay is known for the prestigious Avenue de Champagne lined with iconic houses. The region’s vineyards produce noble grapes like Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, and the méthode champenoise adds artistry to each bottle. Paired with local delicacies, Champagne’s exquisite wines elevate culinary experiences, making it a perfect destination to celebrate special moments or enjoy a glass of bubbly, embodying elegance and allure.

Northern Burgundy, with its enchanting towns of Auxerre, Chablis, and Vézelay, unfurls a tapestry of beauty that captivates the heart of every traveler. Auxerre, with its charming medieval architecture and winding streets, whispers tales of history, while Chablis, renowned for its exquisite wines, beckons connoisseurs to savor its liquid treasures amidst picturesque vineyards. Vézelay, crowned by its magnificent basilica, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, inviting visitors to lose themselves in a serene embrace of nature and spirituality. Limestone cliffs, stunning waterway scenery and visits to rolling vineyards  combine to make Northern Burgundy a truly enchanting destination.

Southern Burgundy

Southern Burgundy is celebrated for its rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The influence of the Burgundian Dukes is evident throughout the medieval villages.  Renowned for exceptional wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it offers numerous vineyards for tasting and tours.   The gastronomy is equally impressive, featuring traditional dishes such as coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon in charming bistros and Michelin-starred restaurants. Historical sites abound, including medieval towns, castles, and landmarks like the Hospices de Beaune. Charming villages like Beaune showcase unique architecture, while the scenic landscapes provide opportunities for outdoor activities. Burgundy also boasts a vibrant arts scene, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and local festivals celebrating wine and food.

Upper Loire cruise

The Upper Loire Valley, celebrated for its exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes, provides a captivating experience in central France. This region is particularly renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, with charming towns like Sancerre and Pouilly-sur-Loire inviting visitors to explore historic sites and vibrant markets. Sancerre, perched on a hill, is distinguished by its unique minerality derived from chalky soils, while Pouilly-sur-Loire is famous for its Pouilly-Fumé wines, known for their smoky flavors and crisp acidity. The lush vineyards lining the Loire River create a picturesque backdrop for wine enthusiasts, where traditional winemaking techniques showcase the dedication of local vintners. Visitors can also savor local delicacies such as goat cheese and fresh fish. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, the Upper Loire Valley promises an elegant and unforgettable experience for all who venture to this enchanting destination.

Thank you for the wonderful week! We will long remember the food, the wine, the cruising, the tours, the walks, the lounging on the deck, the conversation and just plain fun!

Jane & Nelson

A week of fabulous food, wonderful wines, terrific trips, comfy cabins, cheery company and most of all the super duper staff.

Kym

You made this a truly memorable week – great food, fabulous wine and such attention to detail.

Ursala & Garth

The beautiful French countryside, amazing French cuisine & fabulous Burgundy wines surpassed all we had imagined!

Mike & Carolyn

I have traveled all over the world and this is by far one of the finest experiences of my life.

Heather

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