Barging in France

Castles rising from vineyards and medieval churches mark the landscape of Burgundy, the land of the good life for those who savour fine cuisine and wine in historic settings. Burgundy was once an independent province; its Valois dukes spread their might across Europe during the Middle Ages. The Ducs de Bourgogne are but a memory, but they left a legacy of vintage red and white wines to please and excite the palate, and magnificent cities and towns to explore.

Our experience of Burgundy is from the delightful perspective of the “La Belle Epoque”, a beautifully appointed hotel barge which cruises the Nivernais Canal. This cruise is truly a rural experience – isolated villages and chateaux, and superb countryside.

There is plenty of time spent cruising quietly, well off the “beaten tourist track”. You can also walk or cycle along the towpath at your leisure, relax on deck, or enjoy the on-deck Jacuzzi. However your relaxation time is interspersed with captivating excursions.

We visit the historic Basilica of St Mary Magdalene at the lovely hill village of Vezelay; enjoy wine tastings in the famous wine-making town of Chablis; discover the half-timbered capital of Upper Burgundy, Auxerre; explore the chateau that was the home of Louis XIV’s chief military engineer, Vauban; and shop at the weekly market in the cobblestone village of Noyers.

Exceptional local cuisine and wines are provided by our private on-board chef, and different delicious cheeses sampled each day. Barging is a truly unique French experience, and one that will leave you with unforgettable memories of an enchanting holiday!

La Belle Epoque Deck Plan:

La Belle Epoque Lay-out:

2 Master suites* Larger cabin size, larger bathroom with bath/shower over bath, may be double/twin cabins *These cabins available for a supplement on tour price

4 double/twin suites May be double/twin cabins, one of these only may be booked as a single cabin – these cabins have “stand up” showers in the bathroom.

The barge is decorated in tasteful style with wood panelling and luxury fittings, and spacious salons and deck space. All cabins have private en-suite bathrooms. Bathrooms are very small as would be expected aborad a barge with a confined amount of room, but are nicely appointed with marble fittings and l’Occitane toiletries. Open bar is available 24 hours a day and all meals include premium red & white wines. The only drink not included on the menu is champagne apart from the champagne welcome on arrival.