Search Results - Barge

1. Charm Your Partner With a Barge Holiday in Holland
April 18, 2018

Looking to sweep your significant other off their feet with a surprise getaway? We’d highly recommend a barge holiday to Holland aboard the luxurious Panache. There’s nothing more romantic than winding down Dutch waterways and journeying alongside the stunning flower-filled fields and culturally abundant towns. You’ll see that this small country has so much to offer, providing many romantic destinations along its canals. Here are a few of our recommended love-spots that will make your partner swoon. Discover Leiden On a Romantic Bike Tour for Two The historical university town of Lei... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

2. Explore and Experience the Produce of Château de Perdiguier
April 18, 2018

For your next barge holiday in France, step aboard the Andoji and spend a relaxing few days navigating down the French Canal du Midi. This inland waterway flows past stunning countryside and charming villages. As you approach Maraussan, you can stand on the deck of your hotel barge and admire the stunning castles that line the shore. You won’t want to miss the impressive sight of Château de Perdiguier. A Local Heritage Site with an Intricate History Located in the heart of a lovely 7km2 estate, the Château de Perdiguier was erected in the Middle Ages, but has since been developed int... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

3. Embrace Spring with a Relaxing European Barge Cruise
March 21, 2018

Spring is a wonderful time of year, and there is no better way to embrace the change from dreary winter to fresh spring than to take a lovely barge cruise through some of the most fecund European countries. These types of holiday will provide plenty of much-needed sunshine and fresh air whilst featuring some of the most beautiful parts of the continent in full bloom. Europe has many stunning areas to discover by barge that will delight and invigorate visitors, but here are a few of the best places to consider: Italy Italian waterway cruises during spring are a brilliant way to see th... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

4. Discover Ireland's beautiful Castles on a Peaceful Barge Cruise
March 21, 2018

The Republic of Ireland is home to many of the most impressive castles in all Europe, and there is no better way to see these amazing fortresses than by boarding a barge cruise that travels along the River Shannon (the longest river in Ireland). Meandering through the heart of Ireland, a cruise will slowly reveal the great beauty of the country and allow you to hop off at numerous weird and wonderful strongholds along the way. Portumna Nestled at the northern point of Lough Derg, this beautiful castle in County Galway was inhabited by the de Burgo family for over two centuries. Fire ... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

5. The Most Romantic Destinations for a Canal Barge Holiday
February 07, 2018

Imagine exploring the beautiful sights of Europe this Valentine’s Day without having to share them with the crowds. Could anything be more romantic than winding your way along the Seine or the Grand Canal on board a luxury barge with the one you love? If you’re looking to do something special this year, then a barge cruise to a romantic destination could be just the thing. Paris in the Spring There probably isn’t a more romantic city on earth in which to spend Valentine’s Day than Paris. Take a river cruise through the French capital and you will see a hidden side to this destination... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

6. The Canal du Midi's Fonserannes Locks
January 17, 2018

While many visitors are prepared for the beauty of the Languedoc-Roussillon countryside and the delicious food and wine they’ll taste on a barge cruise, France still has some awe-inspiring surprises up its sleeve for visitors to the Canal du Midi. Probably one of the most impressive of these is the seven-rise staircase lock of Fonserannes. The engineering involved in working out a system in which barges can travel up and down the seven ovoid chambers (there is actually an eighth chamber, but this is no longer in use), raising boats 21.5m over a distance of 300m, is staggering. But what is... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

7. Tasting Languedoc: Oysters at Etang du Thau
January 17, 2018

The famous Languedoc region of southern France is one that is defined by water: by its proximity to the Mediterranean and the important trade link of the Canal du Midi which runs through its heart. For this reason, there is no better way to explore its stunning landscape than on a barge cruise. France may be known for its cuisine, but it is the distinctive flavours of its various regions which make exploring the country so fascinating for foodies; nowhere is this more true than in the Languedoc. Thanks to its unique geography (a shoreline protected by sandbanks and lagoons) it is seafood, and ... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

8. Not Gone to Narbonne? Here's What You're Missing
January 16, 2018

Narbonne is a beautiful city in Southern France which sits on the Canal de la Robine. Its stunning location, fascination history and vast cultural heritage make for a lovely stop-off point while on a French barge cruise. The City’s History and Heritage Located a few miles inland from the Mediterranean shores, Narbonne is gently nestled at the crossroads between the Canal de la Robine and the Canal du Midi. It was built by the Romans in 118 BC and became an important trading port. Throughout the period the area flourished and soon became the capital of the Roman Narbonensis province. ... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

9. Make the Most of Minerve on Your French Barge Cruise
January 16, 2018

As a French barge cruise travelling down the Canal du Midi often stops off in the stunning historical town of Minerve, there are a few interesting features you might want to know concerning its history, culture and heritage. About Minerve and its Periphery Set in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France, the Minervois area is an underappreciated beauty. Its deep blue skies extend above impressive mountains, widespread vineyards and large olive trees, while charming villages and châteaux are nestled between these agricultural riches. Minerve itself is a stereotypically ... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

10. Drink up the History (and the Wine) of the Château de Perdiguier
January 16, 2018

Anyone who wants to do more than just taste the wines of the famous Languedoc region, who really wants to understand the terroir and environment from which they come, should consider a leisurely tour of the region by barge cruise. France, with its vast rolling landscapes given over to agriculture and viticulture, is best understood by those who take the time to travel through it slowly. Nowhere is this truer than in the stunning wine-growing region of Languedoc where a leisurely cruise will take you past rows of vines responsible for some of the country’s most famous wines. The other adva... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

11. Forget French Wine - Discover French Beer in Poilhes
January 11, 2018

For many of our guests, a barge holiday in France through some of the world’s most famous wine regions is the perfect time to partake in a tipple or two. A cruise along the Canal du Midi takes you through the prime vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon, tempting your taste buds all the way. However, it’s not just premium local wine that you can discover along the Canal du Midi; we also love to introduce our guests to local French beer on a barge holiday. In France the beer market is overwhelmingly dominated by major breweries, but there are excellent local craft beers on offer if you know where to... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

12. Add Your Footsteps to the Via Domitia in Languedoc
January 11, 2018

History lovers are in their element on a barge holiday in France. The country’s heritage stretches back for millennia; it’s fascinating to see traces of its ancient past glimpsed in a modern setting. The Roman occupation of Gaul left its mark across the country, nowhere more so than in the South of France; the Pont du Gard, the arena of Arles and the Maison Carrée in Nimes are all top attractions for history buffs on a barge holiday. In France there are few Roman construction projects that I find more interesting than the Via Domitia. A Route Through Gaul It is said that all roads... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

13. Discovering Burgundy's Industrial Heritage on the Canal du Nivernais
December 22, 2017

The principal purpose of the Canal du Nivernais today is to play host to French barge cruises, transporting guests through the charming scenery of the region. Like most made-made waterways, however, the Canal du Nivernais was created amidst the hustle and bustle of trade and commerce. Its impressive feats of engineering were put in place to ensure the fastest and most convenient way of transporting goods into France’s capital. Keeping the Flame Alive If you’d attempted a French barge cruise a couple of hundred years ago you would have been in for a nasty shock. The waterways of Fran... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

14. The Château de Gremolles: Unique Architecture in Southern Burgundy
December 22, 2017

Barge holidays in France are a perfect way to explore this well-loved country from a new perspective. Picture yourself aboard a comfortable hotel barge, cruising gently along the waterways of Southern Burgundy, a glass of wine in hand. Sound ideal? Read on to discover one of the most interesting places you can visit in Southern Burgundy, an exemplar of a Burgundian ducal residence, the Château de Germolles. Daring Dukes and a Charming Château The Château de Germolles was home to some of the most important dukes of the region during the late medieval and early Renaissance eras: Phili... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

15. Taste the True Burgundy on Your French Barge Cruise
November 30, 2017

It is impossible to visit France and not be enchanted by its wonderful cuisine. For the French, food is a way of life; meals are far more than just a time to eat, but a time to gather, exchange views and enjoy the pleasure of well prepared food together. For this reason a meal in France cannot be rushed. Expect a leisurely aperitif – perhaps accompanied by a taste bud-tantalising amuse bouche – to lead into an excellent three- or four-course meal complete with wine and cheese. Visitors enjoying a French barge cruise will find that the pace of a meal mirrors the gentle flow of the w... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

16. Barging France: the Cuisine of Bordeaux
November 30, 2017

Any trip through any region of France is likely to be a culinary adventure. It is a country in which the national cuisine is like a religion that everyone believes in and delicious home-cooked food can be found in even the humblest brasserie. But while France is generally thought of as the home of excellent cuisine, it does not mean that each department doesn’t have its own unique taste and flavour. From the crepes of the north to the fish stews of the south, every region has its own proud culinary traditions. One of the great pleasures of taking a leisurely French barge cruise through a... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

17. French Cruising Secrets: the River Marne
November 30, 2017

The River Marne has inspired artists, such as Cézanne and Pissarro, for years, and continues to inspire all who encounter it today. A barge holiday in France is an ideal way to experience the Marne’s rich history, as well as learn more about the feats of engineering which helped make it an important trade passage across the country. Heading for the Seine: The River Marne Basics This French waterway is 514 kilometres long and begins in the Langres plateau. The river makes its way westward, joining the famous River Seine upstream of Paris. On its journey through the French countryside... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

18. For the Love of Locks: A History of the Waterways
November 30, 2017

As barge cruise aficionados know, the canal system is an intricate and carefully balanced feat of engineering. The keystone that supports these waterways is the lock. Whether run by a lockkeeper, actioned by barge owners, or controlled automatically by computers, locks enable a barge cruise to move quickly and easily through the countryside. Without this engineering marvel, canal travel would be completely impossible. So, how was the lock invented and what exactly does it do? When and Why Were They Invented? Rivers have long served as essential networks of trade and communication. Ho... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

19. Barge Types: Know Your Spitzen From Your Klippers
November 30, 2017

For a newcomer to the barge holiday, all barges may look alike. However, there are numerous types of vessels with distinct differences in their histories as well as designs. These models evolved over 200 years, adapting to changing conditions and technology. In Europe, canals – the home of barges – link the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Here is a brief overview of the most common vessels you might come across on your barge holiday. Tjalks and Klippers The tradition of this barge can be traced back to the seventeenth century. Originally wind-powered Tj... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

20. A History of the Waterways: Barge Building in France
November 30, 2017

Though you may be a lover of barge holidays in France, how much do you actually know about the history of this mode of transportation? Although the waterways are now reserved for leisure activities, tourism and barge holidays, France once relied on the humble barge to maintain and grow its economy. In fact, for centuries canals and rivers were essential components of France’s trade network, linking the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Standardisation and Transportation Despite these all-important river links, transportation was slow due to a lack of stan... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

21. River Oise: The Barge Cruise Guide
November 20, 2017

Stretching 341 kilometres from Belgium down to the outskirts of Paris, the River Oise (pronounced ‘waz’) travels through some of northern France’s most historic landscapes, making it an ideal waterway for a barge holiday in France. Meandering its way past Renaissance châteaux and ancient forests, the gorgeous scenery of Val d’Oise was first made famous by the impressionist artists of the nineteenth century. Impressionist Masters Pissarro, Cezanne and Gauguin were all enraptured by the rolling hills, the unique light and, of course, the River Oise itself. Many of the early ... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

22. Canal du Nord: A Barge Holiday Guide
November 20, 2017

If you’ve ever dreamed of canal holidays in France, then the beautiful journey along the Canal du Nord in northern France could be just what you’re looking for. A combination of stunning landscapes, fascinating history and excellent food and wine make this an ideal destination. On one of our luxury barge hotels, you will gently glide along this famous waterway, taking in the sights and sounds of the historic region of Picardi. Here’s my guide to the must see-sights for all northern canal holidays in France. About the Waterway Running from an area south of Lille and Arras i... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

23. Barge Holiday Overview: The River Shannon
November 20, 2017

The River Shannon is Ireland’s longest river and, thanks to the folklore that surrounds it, also one of its most famous. Known in Irish as Abhainn Na Sionainne, the river runs for an impressive 386km from County Cavan in the north to Limerick in the south-west, from where its extensive estuary works its way out into the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to the sheer length of the river, it is hardly surprising that it winds its way through no fewer than 17 counties, and forms three large lakes (or ‘loughs’) on its way to the ocean. The Loughs – Allen, Ree and Derg – are beautiful places to vis... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

24. Burgundian Barging: The Canal du Centre
November 20, 2017

The Canal du Centre winds its way through the picturesque French region of Burgundy. It’s a man-made waterway that, when opened in 1790, completed the final piece of the puzzle in the first inland waterway to link the Mediterranean with the English Channel. In its early days, the canal provided a route to transport firewood, coal, building materials, wine and pottery to Paris. Today it is a popular route for barge holidays in France and provides a delightful way to explore the Burgundian countryside. The Canal du Centre The route of the canal runs between the Loire and the Sa... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves

25. Your Guide to Cruising the Canal de Garonne
November 20, 2017

The Canal de Garonne forms a vital part of the network of canals that allow visitors on a barge holiday in France to cruise unimpeded from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Totalling 193km in length, the canal runs from Castets-en-Dorthe to beyond Toulouse and is studded with dozens of locks and bridges. It is possible to cycle along the entire Canal and there are numerous opportunities for excursions to the region’s notable towns and cities en route. Engineering Wonders Work began on the Canal in 1838, although it would be a further seventeen years before it was completed. With e... (read more)

Author: Laura Jeeves