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A barge cruise in France offers an idyllic way to travel through any of the country’s regions without the worry of transport and logistics. Barge holidays are designed to offer luxury living and elegant travel at a relaxing pace, but also the option of cultural visits and the chance to see some of the less tourist trodden parts of the country. For any first timer needing some convincing when it comes to a barge cruise in France, here is a taste of what you can expect from life onboard. Unique Ambiance When you book your vessel you will find that each one is small enough to accommodate only a few guests and the dedicated professional crew: the Captain, the chef, the hostess and deck hand. Each member of the staff is on hand to ensure the comfort of all guests at all times, and the crew are always attentive but unobtrusive. From the moment you step onboard you will be warmly welcomed; it won’t take you long to absorb the tranquil atmosphere as you sit back and watch the French countryside unfold before you. Comfort When we get to a certain stage of life, our comfort becomes ever more important, so rest assured that a barge cruise in France will offer quality accommodation and all the extras you would expect from a hotel stay. Every vessel is decorated with great attention to detail and cabins are spacious and all en-suite. Of course, every boat varies in its design but most have a terrace up on the deck and some even have a spa. Five Star Service The crew (which usually comprises between three and six people) is there to cater to your every whim. The Captain pilots the boat and you can relax in the knowledge that you are in good hands, while the chef creates freshly prepared meals using local and seasonal ingredients every day. Evening meals are generally a four course affair and accompanied by regional wines. A deck hand’s job is to keep the boat clean, tidy and well maintained, while the hostess is on hand to keep on top of the housekeeping but also to act as waitress at meal times. Food and Wine From the buttery croissants and stone baked baguettes in the morning and the summery quiches and cheese platters for lunch, to the gourmet feast you can expect every night, the food is a culinary highlight of any barge cruise in France. Your hostess will pay attention to pairing everything you eat with a delicious wine local to the region in which you are travelling. Along with the food the wine is a major part of any boating holiday. Daily Excursions Every barge offers the chance to visit local attractions such as chateaux, villages, markets and, of course, vineyards. Some excursions take in famous city sights while others are much more off the beaten path, but wherever you go you will be escorted in an air-conditioned minibus. So Relaxing Hopefully you have got the gist of the pace of this kind of holiday. The focus is on relaxation and comfort, elegant meals, fine wines and the good company of fellow passengers. As you meander through the seemingly endless waterways of France’s breathtaking countryside, you can watch local life simply pass you by. If you are dreaming of setting sail on France’s famous waterways and enjoying a week or two unwinding in the luxury and comfort of a barge cruise in France, then make sure you book with a reputable tour operator. Trust in the experts and you can rest assured that your experience will be better than you ever expected. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider if you're looking for an all-inclusive, luxury barge cruise in France or other great destinations. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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