French Canal

What You Can Expect During a Barge Vacation in France

A barge cruise is a luxurious and relaxing way to experience the French countryside and culture. Barge cruises in France sail smoothly along the pristine canals and stop at many local villages and attractions along the way.

Boarding a luxury barge in France is the ultimate way to explore hidden countryside gems and lush winelands at your own pace. Luxury barge cruises are smaller than river cruises, and they accommodate fewer travelers for a more intimate experience. Here’s what you can expect when you book your dream barge cruise in France onboard the Barge Meanderer.

Onboard Comforts

Canal barge cruises are cozy and comfortable with premium amenities. For example, on the Barge Meanderer, you will have access to a sun deck with a hot tub for daytime lounging and evening cocktails. The atmosphere on our barge cruise is casual and welcoming. Our crew members are second to none and greet you by name and get to know your specific traveling needs.

Local cuisine and wine are a big part of French barge cruises. Our Talented onboard chef creates culinary masterpieces using ingredients sourced from local villages and markets. The rates for a barge cruise usually include meals and excursions.

Flexible Itinerary

Barge cruising is the perfect vacation for tourists who love taking their time. The Barge Meanderer drifts slowly down the canal so you have the opportunity to explore quaint villages and rolling vineyards. When you need a rest after a day of adventure, climb back aboard and get back to enjoying the scenery.

Our itineraries include multiple stops at landmarks and attractions, and you can choose whether to join the excursion or stay on board. You can tailor your vacation to include a well-rounded combination of active and relaxing activities. From biking along the beautiful French countryside or exploring some of the most popular attractions in the area, our barge team will provide you with all of the information that you need to make the most out of your time on land.

A Memorable Vacation

Hotel barges are fairly small, and only a few passengers can cruise at once. The cabins on the cruise are luxurious and private, offering you the option of relaxing alone or as a couple. Keep in mind that you can also plan a barge trip in France that will accommodate for just your close friends and family members. This is an excellent way to enjoy memorable time with the special people in your life or to celebrate a certain event such as a birthday or an anniversary.

Where do Barge Cruises Go in France?

Our French canal barge travels throughout France, and some of the most popular routes include trips along the Canal de Briare and Canal du Loing. When you book your vacation with Barge Meanderer, you will have the opportunity to build your travel agenda along one of these two historic canals. These French canals snake through picturesque winelands and scenery, and there are many antique villages and historical attractions at the water’s edge.

The Canal de Briare is among France’s oldest canals, built in the 1600s while the Canal du Loing was built between 1720 and 1723 by Phillppe II who was the Duke of Orleans.  For history-loving wanderers, cruising along this canal immerses you in antique French architecture such as the royal palace of Fontainebleau, the Château of Vaux-le-Vicomte, and the Guédelon castle. Explore Loire and Burgundy to experience authentic French cuisine and wine tasting in the Sancerre wine country. These regions are also brimming with art history for creatives and art-lovers aboard the barge cruise to explore.

Book Your Barge Trip in France Today

Luxury barge cruises are the perfect way to discover France slowly and take in all its natural beauty and culture. The crew of the Barge Meanderer always goes above and beyond to see to your every need during your barge tour. Don’t wait another day to book your trip of a lifetime.