Tag Archives: Barge Cruises

The Route of the Grand Cru Wines of France – Barge Cruise

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Wine-making is a tradition in Burgundy dating back to the days of Charlemagne when monks started it. With an art so old, the locals obviously got years of experience to make the perfect wines in the region. This is the most enchanting countryside of France and has the honor of having some world-class wineries. Burgundy is one of the most important historic sites in France with some prominent places listed on UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The winegrowers in Burgundy have only small vineyards which are hardly more than 10 hectares and they produce small volumes of very good wine. Burgundy reds are produced from pinot noir grapes and the best vintages demand 10 to 20 years of age whereas the whites are produced from chardonnay.

The Route of the Grand Cru Wines (the Route des Grands Crus) is the most famous wine route in Burgundy region and a much sought after tourist attraction.

Starting from Dijon in the north and expanding to the wine village of Santenay in the south, the Route des Grands Crus, takes you through the vineyards of the Côte de Nuits and the Côte de Beaune and the back hills (Hautes-Côtes) behind and above the wine slopes. This 60-kilometre stretch is punctuated by around 38 picturesque localities including villages and little towns, many with  picturesque churches.

The Grands Crus Wine Route is only a few hundred yards wide and positioned at an altitude of between 300 and 400 meters. The route is signaled by panels with a brown background showing a white bunch of grapes (Route Touristique des Grands Crus de Bourgogne).

From Santenay through Chassagne-Montrachet, Mersault, Nuits St Georges, Beaune, Gevrey-Chambertin and all the other famous names of 38 villages on the Cote d’Or to Dijon, the Route Touristique des Grands Crus de Bourgogne is a well-signposted route for cars, cycling or walking exploring the vineyards of Burgundy. The area is normally peaceful with the exception of the main towns. So as you travel off the main roads, it will help you discover some of the nuances of the countryside which make some areas more special than others.

And it’s not about vineyards only as you travel along the Grands Crus Wine Route. On the way, you will come across some of the prettiest villages in France as the wine growers are as much attentive about their villages as their vineyards. You will be delighted to see the clusters of stone houses decorated with geraniums. The narrow cobbled streets in between further add to the beauty of these villages.

Book your family vacation on our France barge cruise or Burgundy cruise and take an unforgettable road trip through the Route of the Grand Cru Wines and marvel at the breathtaking vineyards, historic monuments and some exquisite UNESCO World Heritage Sites!

For more information contact: Europeanbarging, 888-869-7907, jan@europeanbarging.com

Visit Nantes on a Loire River Cruise or French Barge Cruise

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Nantes is a vibrant and innovative city situated on the banks of Loire River, 50km from the Atlantic coast. The sixth largest city in France, Nantes is popularly known as the green wonder of western France. It was named as ‘the most liveable city in Europe by Time Magazine in 2004 and in 2013 it received the title of European Green Capital.

Nantes is the capital city of the Pays de la Loire region. It was one of the most important cities of the historic province of Brittany, and the ancient Duchy (capital) of Brittany. Though Nantes was officially separated from Brittany in 1789, it continues to be culturally Breton and still largely considered as its capital city. The fact is that you can separate Nantes from Brittany due to the regional boundaries created during WWII, but you can never separate Brittany from its long-time capital, Nantes which is called Naoned in Breton.

Nantes was the leading port of France by the 18th century. It prospered on the triangular trade with Africa and the West Indies. During the 19th century when the slavery was scrapped, Nantes transformed into a front line industrial centre. It has the honor of being the place where the world’s first public-transport service, the omnibus, started in 1826. Shipbuilding was a thriving industry which secured the city’s economy until the late 20th century. With the relocation of shipyards westwards to St-Nazaire, Nantes converted itself into a flourishing student and cultural center. Nantes also takes pride in being the home of the science fiction writer Jules Verne.

Frequent rainfalls take place throughout the year and temperatures are cool. Even if it is sunny, always stay prepared as it is common for short but fierce tempests to appear all of a sudden. It is always desirable to carry an umbrella or raincoat when you step out. Winters are generally mild.

Place du Commerce is the wonderful medieval center of the city and anybody can guide you towards it. Nearby, you will find la Place Royale, le Quai de la Fosse and la rue Crébillon famous for its exclusive shops.

Nantes has so much to offer. Book your European family vacation on our French barge cruise, French river cruise or Loire river cruise for an unforgettable cruising experience!

For more information contact: Europeanbarging, 888-869-7907, jan@europeanbarging.com

French River Cruise in Angers, France

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The city of Angers is a French city situated in the north west of France. It is the capital of the Maine-et-Loire department of the French region Pays de la Loire. Before the French revolution, Angers was the capital of the province of Anjou, and so the residents of both the city and the province are called Angevins.

The historic city of Angers greatly appeals to the historians and visitors who want to explore France’s rich medieval history as it is a part of the French region which was known as Anjou in the Middle Ages. Angers is a busy and vibrant city today which is inhabited by approximately 150,000 people in the city itself and around 270,000 people in the greater metropolitan area.

Angers offers several places of attraction and the best way to explore the city is by foot. Almost all the major tourist attractions and shopping areas are situated close to one another except for the nearby lake, Lac de Maine, which is around 30 minutes from outside of the center of the city. But that too can offer you a wonderful experience when you walk to the lake on a summer evening and come back to your place.

The castle fortress of Angers is the most dominating of all the attractions held by the city. It is an amazing defense work with 17 towers and a massive mediaeval tapestry of the Apocalypse. This tapestry is probably one of the most impressive artworks that the Middle Ages have graciously passed on to us.

The Regional Angers Marcé Air Museum is another prominent attraction in Angers. It was created by some local aviation aficionados with the aim to let the generations know about the role of those great men of the great flying adventure, such as Roland Garros, René Gasnier and so on. The purpose of this museum was to provide the visitor a chance to recognize the second national collection of light and winged aircraft in France. The museum often holds temporary exhibitions, guided conferences, and restoration of the “vieux coucous” demonstrations in order to provide a delightful experience to the visitors.
The Museum of Fine Arts (Beaux Arts) is yet another attraction in the city. It has been accommodated in the Barrault residence, a late 15th century private home since 1796. The museum’s collection displays many paintings among which are the paintings by eminent painters such as Chardin, Watteau, Fragonard, Boucher, David and Ingres. The collection also encompasses Goldsmith’s work, enamel, and ivory arts.

Book your European family vacation on our French river cruise and visit Angers France for an enjoyable family experience!

For more information contact: Europeanbarging, 888-869-7907, jan@europeanbarging.com

Visiting the Dordogne Region After a Bordeaux Cruise

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 Visit the Dordogne Region

Dordogne regionWith the largest concentration of chateau in France as well as great wines and gastronomy, the Dordogne is a great area to visit. One of the places to visit is Beynac-et-Cazenac and Cliff-top villages Domme. The beautiful scenery represents so much life viewers are amazed by the magnificent views they are privy to. The castle has great views and everything looks as if it was in a picture. Sarlat-la Caneda is just one of the views. This place is sure to bring back the feeling of medieval times.

Dordogone is the capital of France for the foie gras, duck and truffle. This combination of food is popular in France but nothing is better than Dordogone region. Wine is definitely a France favorite. The local cheeses are paired well with wine. One local cheese that stands out is the Cabecou, its main ingredient is raw goat’s milk. There are 13 wines produced in the Dordogne region. The white or red wine Bergerac brings a delightful taste to regional dishes. Others to talk about are the Sweet Monbazillac, Pecharmant and ambrosial walnut liqueur.

Bordeaux Barge

Barge cruises in the Bordeaux region are offered on the 6 passenger St Louis and the 6 passenger Rosa. The Rosa offers round trips cruise from Toulouse while the St Louis offers alternating itineraries between Montauban and Agen as well as between Agen and Castets.

River Cruise

On the River Gironde, Dordogne River and the Garonne in Bordeaux, we offer 5, 6 and 7 night cruises sailing roundtrip from Bordeaux.

For more information contact: Europeanbarging, 888-869-7907, jan@europeanbarging.com

Luxury Barge Cruising Northern Italy – Europe River Cruises and Barging

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http://www.europeanbarging.com ~ 713-240-6753 ~ 888-869-7907 :: Cruising Northern Italy by luxury barge cruise, casual bike and barge cruise or river cruise. Being one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Italy, is an ideal place for luxury barge cruising. Contact European Barging to plan Continue reading →