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The south of France has long attracted artists to paint, sketch and do their best to portray the beauty of its scenery and replicate the intensity of its light. If you have an interest in art and have a desire to follow in the footsteps of the many famous painters such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and more recently, Simon Fletcher, then an art themed hotel barge holiday could be perfect for you. With opportunities to put pen to paper around every corner, hotel barge holidays with a focus on art have been designed to suit artists of all abilities. Here’s what you can look forward to drawing or painting. The Etang Linda Matthews was one of many famous contemporary painters drawn to the magical views and the sparkling waters of the Etang. This saltwater lagoon is separated from the Mediterranean by a narrow strip of sand that itself is a stunning beach, and the ideal place in which to sit and get out the watercolours or oils. Medieval Inspiration The medieval town of Béziers is a stunning place that you will have plenty of time to enjoy if you are enjoying a hotel barge holiday in the region. The famous view of the town is from the west side of the river, up to the imposing cathedral that stands high and proud on a hill in the town centre. Below it, rooftops spread down to where the old walls once protected the town. On first glance this is a delightful scene of old market town charm but there is much more to Béziers than first meets the eye. This is a fabulous town in so many respects, full of history and character, with its four bridges over the River Orb, including the famous Bridge of Water on which a canal has been built. Roman Stimulation Narbonne is a beautiful Roman town in which painting opportunities abound. For years, artists have flocked to Narbonne to paint the stunning golden beaches, the surrounding fishing villages, and the beautiful canal. Les Halles, the wrought iron and glass market is open every day and is a constant hive of activity. It is also a great place to sit and capture some of the local life on paper. An Historical Gem The historical town of Pezenas, now a protected monument, is one of the most attractive towns in the Languedoc. One of the most picturesque parts of this town is right in its centre, where beautifully preserved winding streets are dotted with artists showing off their skills, as well as antique shops and artisan boutiques. The enchanting heart of this historic town has a definite art scene and is simply ideal for the budding artist wanting to capture some of its allure. Other Highlights Other highlights of this art focussed hotel barge holiday include a visit to a local olive press and time spent in the magical city of Carcassonne, the enchanting hilltop settlement surrounded by walls and drawbridges, and decorated with towers and cobbled streets. This place that many believe to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, is one not to be missed. Achille Laugé, a famous painter who lived close by was one of many to be engrossed by the beautiful city. If you love the idea of painting in ‘Plein air’ then this hotel barge holiday could be just what you were looking for. Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury hotel barge holiday itineraries in France and 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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