While not all barge cruises are the same and not all trips through France may be a perfect match for you, a private charter barge cruise delivers phenomenal scenery, exquisite French cuisine, and unforgettable experiences that will fill you with a lifetime of memories. Barge Meanderer will serve as your home base for all things French as you make your way through legendary canals, visit little towns off the beaten path and explore French cuisine as only a private chef can.
If you can see yourself gliding along the famous canals of France in a luxury barge, here are even more ways you can make great memories in France on a private charter barge cruise:
- Wine, Panoramic Views, and Pottery
One of the best ways to make special memories during your barge cruise is to explore the history and culture of the Upper Loire. The region is home to many charming villages and towns, each with its own unique character and history. For example, the town of Sancerre is famous for its wine and panoramic views of the Loire River, while the medieval town of Gien is known for its pottery and ceramics. We’ll be happy to provide information and recommendations on towns and villages that dot the romantic countryside as we cruise along the river.
- Century Old Palaces, Gardens, and Chateaus
The region is home to many beautiful Chateaus, parks, and gardens, such as the Château Vaux le Vicomte and its beautiful gardens. During the time that you’re enjoying your private charter barge cruise, be sure to bring your camera along with you so that you can capture these incredible sights!
- 12th Century Architecture
One of the towns that is well known on the southern route is Montcresson, a charming village located on the Loire River. This village is well known for its beautiful church, the Eglise Saint-Etienne, which dates to the 12th century. This is an incredible example of what you will see on a bespoke barge cruise.
- Counts and Castles
Another town that is well known on the southern route is Chatillon-Coligny, which is known for its beautiful castle and history as a former residence of the Counts of Champagne. The Château de Chatillon-Coligny is also well known for its labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.
- One of the Oldest Lock Systems in the World
Rogny-Les-Sept-Excluses is a small town located on the Loire River. It’s known for its unique lock system, one of the oldest in the world. This town is also considered by many to be one of the most unspoiled villages in the region.
- The World-Famous Sancerre Region
Sancerre wine region is well known for its delicious wines, the charming town of Léré, and the Cosne-Sur-Loire market. The wine region is also known for its beautiful landscape, with a panoramic view of the Loire River and vineyard.
- Beautiful Architecture
On the northern route, one of the more well-known towns is Moret-sur-Loing, famous for its beautiful historic buildings dating back to the 12th century. It is also well known for its incredible biking opportunities, perfect for avid cyclists or casual bikers. Also, enjoy the same picturesque spots used by impressionist painters such as Alfred Sisley long ago.
- Sampling Wine in Sancerre
You may also find yourself sampling wine in Sancerre or taking in the floral displays of Montargis. Admired by many, the Sancerre region is known across the globe for its variety and being the home of Sauvignon Blanc wine.
- Château de Nemours and Gardens
Nemours is another well-known town on the northern route. It’s known for its beautiful castle, the Château de Nemours, which dates back to the 14th century, and its beautiful gardens. The Château de Nemours is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the town, and it’s well known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture.
- The Royal Palace of Fontainebleau
Located in Fontainebleau, this palace was home to generations of French monarchs, from Louis VII to Napoleon III, and is one of France’s largest chateaus.
- Make the Trip Your Own
Perhaps one of the most memorable things you can do on a luxury chartered barge trip is explore. A private charter barge is a perfect way to uncover all that France has to offer. Maybe your trip is about the castles or the famous gardens, or perhaps it’s about the local cheeses you won’t find anywhere else; there are unlimited ways to make this trip your own.
Regardless of your interests, the Barge Meanderer has an itinerary designed to help you explore and discover a side of France you are unlikely to encounter anywhere else. And while our itinerary provides a wide range of incredible opportunities, we will work with you on anything of interest and try to accommodate whenever possible. Contact us today to directly book your lifetime trip through France’s beautiful countryside.