THE QUINTESSENTIAL WAY TO SEE EUROPE

Canal and river cruising is thought of by many seasoned travelers as the quintessential way to experience Europe. Imagine a vacation that is an array of unique experiences, but without the hassles of packing and unpacking. Though "barging" has increased in popularity in recent years, it is not a new way for tourists to explore Europe. The history of Europe’s canal systems can be traced back to the first century. In the mid 1960’s, barging as we know it today was introduced. There are several dozen vessels on the European continent that are categorized as barges. France is the leader and hosts most of the barges of Europe. The Netherlands, UK and Ireland also offer barging experiences. Barges come in several sizes – Small (6-10 passengers) Medium (12-24 passengers) and Large (40-50 passengers). Barges differ in their level of amenities although they share a common essence.

Most travelers agree that the true essence of barging is about:

Exceptional food, wine and service on board the vessel - Fresh cheese, produce and wines often purchased locally.

We began each day by joining our intimate little group for steaming hot coffee and a wonderfully prepared breakfast. (It was the aroma of the freshly baked croissants that woke us) Each day the breakfast seemed to get better! The buffet style lunches were sensational and seemed to fit perfectly with the activities of the day. The dinners were very special and perhaps the part of our vacation that returns to our minds most often. It was not unusual to see our chef scouring the market of the little villages for perfect touch ingredients for the evening meal. We marveled at the creativity and range of the chef’s abilities. His knowledge of wines complimented the extraordinary cuisine and rounded out the gastronomic adventure. This is a vacation filled with 5 star dining experiences and was a reminder to celebrate life.

This vacation was a reminder to celebrate life!

Easy on/off access to the genteel landscapes and quaint villages along the route - Stroll or bike barge-side at your own pace.

New adventures lay around every bend of the canal. The surprise of the vacation is how easy it is to hop off the vessel to stretch, explore, and embrace new understandings. We loved the daily excursions that the crew planned especially for our group and which turned out to be an incredible expansion of mind and spirit. One winery was more fantastic than the next - One field of wildflowers more vibrant than the other - Each village was more charming than the one before. Our encounters with the villagers were particularly unforgettable and the lock keepers well wishes of "bon voyage" are salted away in our memories forever.

An incredible expansion of mind and spirit!

Intimate, relaxing and warm ambiance on board - Perfect atmosphere to reconnect with your companion

Many of our travels have brought us home feeling tired and unfulfilled. However, this vacation was different. The warm and elegant décor of the barge itself made us feel very relaxed and the crew did a magnificent job of creating a comfortable environment in which strangers became friends. Good wine and laughter were served and shared in generous portions and by the end of our barge cruise we felt a personal sense of renewal.