Tag Archives: french river cruise

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