The French waterways by luxury barge

Discover the waterways, canals and rivers of rural France in style on board a luxury barge. This itinerary offers a unique way to see France’s spectacularly beautiful countryside. The Barges operate from April to October on a variety of routes through Languedoc-Roussillon, Burgundy, Provence, Franche-Comté and the Rhône. Sleeping from four to twelve guests, the five 'péniche-hôtels' can be chartered by families or groups for sole use or booked on a cabin-by-cabin basis.

1. Fly to Lyon

2. Days 1-7: South of France

   You will then board your barge in Lyon, ready to embark on your 6-night cruise to Avignon.  Once on board, attentive guides, chefs and hosts are on hand to make sure you get the most out of each port of call along the way, and the high ratio of staff to guests means impeccable service is assured. We recommend chartering one of the barges privately for a relaxed house-party atmosphere with your family and friends, with the added benefit of ever-changing scenery passing you by.

   Your 6-night cruise will include a different excursion every day as you explore the beautiful towns and villages which line your route. On-shore activities included in your itinerary, range from vineyard picnics to leisurely bike rides and visits to local villages. Your expert tour guide can personalise the itinerary for each day of your trip so that each of the tours and visits match your interests.

   You will have the opportunity to discover the gastronomic heritage of France, as all meals and drinks are included. During your cruise, you can expect to be served at least 15 different wines and over 20 cheeses, all sourced from the very regions you sail through daily. The chef will accompany you to local markets as you selected the freshest produce for the table that day. You will also enjoy a champagne reception, evening cocktails and a farewell gala dinner.

   Accommodation: Belmond Afloat in France (6 nights)

   

3. Days 7-9: Lyon and Beaujolais

   This particular itinerary we have suggested departs from Lyon, where you will begin a couple of nights on land before boarding your barge. This fertile area is a haven for food and wine lovers and there are some fantastic vineyards in Beaujolais to explore, and of course sample! You can also explore the city of Lyon, considered by many as France’s “second city” and a less-busy alternative to Paris. Here, there are also an array of museums to visit, or you may wish to venture to one of the nearby medieval villages. 

   Accommodation: Château de Bagnols (2 nights)

   

4. Days 9-11: Provence

   After bidding your barge farewell you’ll then spend a relaxing few days in the South of France where you can choose to do as much, or as little as you like! After an active few days you may decide simply to relax by the pool or to have a gentle meander through one of the beautiful Provençal towns. Of course, you may even decide to extend your trip to spend a few days discovering the glamourous Cote de Azur, your travel consultant can advise you on your options in the area.

   Accommodation: Hotel Crillon le Brave (2 nights)

   

5. Fly home from Marseilles

• Cycling in Provence

  In the shadow of Mont Ventoux, the fabled climb synonymous with the Tour de France, try your hand at a more gentle bike ride through the gorgeous countryside of Provence.

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• Wine tasting at Crillon le Brave

  A must for all oenophiles, enjoy a wine tasting with the chef-sommelier at Crillon Le Brave in a turret complete with delicious charcuterie.

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Lyon, South of France & Provence