Tag Archives: Wine Cruise

Gourmet France: Famous Cheeses from the Best French Cheese Regions

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Aside from French sweets, Gourmet France is known for its cheeses. So crazy are the French about their cheeses that there are around 400 distinct types of French cheeses grouped into 8 categories. Since it would take forever to go through every single type of cheese, here are the 10 tastiest cheeses from different French cheese regions that every aspiring French cheese connoisseur needs to know.

 

Cheese tasting

Cheese tasting on the Apres Tout barge in Burgundy France

Brie
Considered as one of the best-known cheeses in the world, brie is a type of soft cheese that becomes softer as it ages. Named after the historic region in Northern France where it’s mainly produced, brie has a rich milk and buttery flavor that makes it perfect to eat with bread and paired with either red or white wine.

Camembert
Named after its birthplace in Camembert, Normandy, Camembert is another type of soft creamy cheese that the French absolutely love. Made with raw cow’s milk, Camembert has an earthy flavor that is similar to brie, only a bit stronger.

Reblochon
This creamy cheese is made in the Haute Savoie Alps region and is one of the more popular grand mountain cheeses readily available in markets today. Made from raw cow’s milk, Reblochon has a strong aroma with a nutty aftertaste.

Edel de Cleron
Made in the village of Cleron in the Franche-Comte region, Edel de Cleron is a traditional cheese made from pasteurized cow’s milk. This soft cheese, known for its woody aftertaste, is best eaten ripe when it’s runny and gooey on the inside.

Delice
The Delice is a type of cheese that is made in Burgundy. Since cream is added in twice with the milk during the cheese-making process, this cheese is rich and exceptionally creamy that you’ll feel it melting in your mouth.

Morbier
Produced in the Eastern region of France, the Morbier is a type of semi-soft cheese that can be made from either raw or pasteurized cow’s milk. The Morbier has a tangy flavor with a hint of citrus and is also fairly elastic.

Pont-L’Eveque
Known as one of the oldest cheeses from Normandy, the Pont-L’Eveque is the only semi-soft cheese with a cross-hatched pale orange rind. Made from raw cow’s milk, it has a creamy smooth texture and a fairly strong pungent aroma.

Mimolette
Traditionally produced in the city of Lille, the Mimolette is a type of hard cheese with a bright orange color and comes in the shape of a cantaloupe. When properly aged, this cheese has a nutty flavor and makes a great addition to any cheese platter.

Comte
Also known as the Gruyere de Comte, the Comte is a delightful hard French cheese with a smoky yet fruity taste. Made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and produced in Eastern France, this versatile cheese is usually melted to make fondue, eaten as a sandwich, or grated over savory dishes.

Roquefort
Known as one of the most popular blue cheeses around, the Roquefort is made from sheep’s milk in the south of France. Similar to the Bleu d’Auvergne, the Roquefort is a rich, creamy, sharp cheese with a pungent aroma.

Taking a barge cruise through the canals of France will give you a chance to taste many different cheeses. The cheeses will be accompanied by complementary wines of the regions as well as great food. Barge cruises range in price from low $3,000’s to over $7.000 per person for 6 nights. Rate includes the cruise, all meals, most non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages and excursions. All barges include bicycles for cycling the towpaths along the canals and exploring the nearby towns and villages. Check out our site to learn about the different barges we offer. For more information contact: jan@europeanbarging.com or 888-869-7907  Barge and River cruise specialist since 1998.

Enjoying 3 Bordeaux Wines – on a River Cruise

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When taking a European River Cruise through Bordeaux, you can experience a one-of-a kind wine tour all throughout the journey.

The cruise will take you to different wine destinations that offer a variety of world-renowned wines in the area.  There is the opportunity to experience 3 Bordeaux Wines – Medoc, Cotes de Bourg and Sauternes

Other than savoring the taste and aroma of good quality wines, a Bordeaux River Cruise will be a treat for the eyes as you enjoy magnificent views of lush vineyards, historic landmarks, and natural landscapes.

MEDOC WINES
There are a number of vineyards in the Bordeaux area and you must not miss trying out some of the most popular wines. The full-bodied red wines in the Medoc region are recommended. The world-famous wines in this region are made at family-owned chateaus producing signature blends and grand cru wines.

Visit the Margaux and St. Julien vineyards and cellars to also gain insight of several centuries of winemaking tradition. Admire the scenic view of rolling vine-covered hills as you go from one place to another.

BOURG WINES
Northwest of the city of Bordeaux is the Cotes de Bourg, one of the oldest wine producing regions in France. You can find around 400 winemakers in this area, the majority of which are family-owned. Cotes de Bourg is known for Merlot-based red wines but it also produces dry white wine in small quantities.

SAUTERNES WINES
Another popular wine in the Bordeaux region is the Sauternes. It is known for being a timeless classic when it comes to white wines. A tour to the Sauternes area will give tourists a taste of this sweet wine as they are learning about the “noble rot” process involved in making it. In this winemaking process, the grapes are left on the vines to rot to maintain the concentration of sugar and acidity.

Taking an AmaWaterways River Cruise in the Bordeaux region will indeed satisfy wine lovers. At the same time, it showcases the number of attractions that has earned its slot in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Europeanbarging is offering a $1000 discount per person off a Baron’s Creek winery cruise departing  Aug 14 – 21, 2025. Offer good thru March 30th 2024. CALL NOW for best selection. Europeanbarging.com 888-869-7907

Cruising the Canal du Midi on the 6 Passenger Roi Soleil

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Converted to a  hotel barge in 1999, the Roi Solei is a deluxe six passenger barge cruising the Canal du Midi in Southern France.

The Roi Soleil  offers cruises in the Canal du Midi area in France, some of the highlights include: Medieval Carcassonne, a fortified Medieval fortress with a walled city and preserved ramparts, Narbonne (Roman capital), historic Cathar hilltop towns, as well as the experience of cruising on the man made Canal du midi – finished 350 years ago, and featuring 91 working locks.  Cruise through the magnificent vistas vineyards as far as the eye can see to the snow capped Pyrenees.

The Roi Soleil also offers special wine charter themed cruises.  With their contacts the owners can help you find some special vintages, they can offer daily wine tasting or even comparison tasting with other wine regions – at additional cost.

Family cruise charters are another specialty of the Roi Soleil.   Excursions can include cycling (bike and helmet sizes can be arranged in advance for children), horse back riding, 4 wheel riding, hot air balloon swimming at the beach, in the river or on the barge.  Excursions can be arranged for the children at the same time as the adults are out on excursions.

With a large saloon on the upper deck, with a fireplace, bar and elegant dining area, the barge has an open feel with many windows and skylights. The barge has two sundecks with a retractable canopy and a jacuzzi tub at one end.  The cabins can be configured for queen or twin, and ensuite bathroom with large showers, lave stone floors, and heated towel racks.  There is limited Wi-Fi depending on reception.

For excursions there is an air-conditioned eurovan with seating for 8, and there are six Giant Boulder Breeze Hybrid bikes and six helmets.

Continental breakfast includes fresh breads, pastries, cereals, fresh fruits, yogurt, freshly brewed coffee and tea.

  • Atypical lunch might consist of: Smoked duck and granny smith apple salad with fresh raspberry dressing,  braised quail served on creamy porcini mushroom risotto, and lemon soufflé.
  • A typical dinner might consist of: home made foie gras au torchon with pear and date, Charollais beef fillet on braised beetroot and fresh asparagus with chunky basil pesto and plum, apple chutney. Chilled blackberry & vanilla soup with caramel & balsamic ice cream on a chocolate truffle with pistachio spun sugar, followed by coffee, tea or liqueurs with fine chocolates. The galley on the Roi Soleil was specifically designed with an open plan to accommodate passengers who may be interested in participating in our Chef cooking demonstrations to learn new techniques or pick up a few tricks.

Included in the rate is 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath, all meals – from dinner the first night to breakfast the last morning, all wines with lunch & dinner open bar, daily escorted excursions and use of onboard bicycles.  Check out the Roi Soleil itinerary and our videos on the Roi Soleil barge and the Roi Soleil Dining.

For more information contact us at 888-869-7907   or europeanbarging.com   European River Cruise and Barge specialists since 1998.

6 Passenger Clair de Lune barge on the Canal du Midi

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When looking for a barge cruise in Southern France, an excellent choice would be the 6-passenger Clair de Lune, tastefully furnished with Mediterranean plane tree and American cherry wood furnishings. There is a stylish, modern salon with a comfortable sitting area, a large dining table and a well stocked bar. There are three spacious cabins, each of which can be configured with a queen bed or two twin sized beds. Each cabin has a large wardrobe, dressing table, and an ensuite bathroom, with large shower. The cabins and the salon all have large picture windows. The beds in each cabin face the windows, so that you can enjoy the scenery even from inside of the barge. For easy access, the boat has been built with as few stairs as possible.

A very large sundeck takes command on the exterior of the barge, where you can lounge in comfort on reclining chairs. Sun-lovers can soak up the sun and cool down in the Jacuzzi, while those who prefer the shade can relax under the awning while watching the picturesque scenery unfold. The sundeck is a perfect setting to enjoy an al fresco lunch or a leisurely candlelit dinner on beautiful summer evenings.

In the spring and fall the Clair de Lune cruises on the quaint Canal du Midi between the charming village of Le Somail and the fortified city of Carcassonne, discovering some of the most beautiful scenery in the south of France along the way. During the cruise you will visit historical sites such as the spectacular Cathar village of Minerve, the elegant city of Narbonne and enjoy wine tastings at renowned local domaines. In the summer it cruises an alternative itinerary on the Canal du Midi passing Carcassonne and Castelnaudary. Excursions include a visit to Limoux for a private wine tasting, the medieval Cathar town of Mirepoix and beautiful Lac de Saint-Ferréol.

The Clair de Lune team is led by its French owner, Yves Pastor, who is accompanied by an English-speaking crew: a professionally trained Chef who will be responsible for all of the meals on board, a tour guide who will lead all of the excursions, and a hostess. Yves’ lifelong love of boating and desire to provide a luxury barge experience to passengers from all over the world is what drives his passion for barging. While on board, the crew invites you to relax and enjoy the landscapes and natural beauty of this magnificent canal.

Europeanbarging.com   888-869-7907

Questions and Answers on AmaWaterways European River Cruise

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Our questions and answers on AmaWaterways European River Cruises are to provide information on what make AmaWaterways a great River Cruise company for your European River Cruise  We can assist in finding the perfect cruise.  Call us  Europeanbarging.com   – 888-869-7907

 

AmaLegro docked at night

AmaLegro docked at night

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is Internet available onboard?
High-speed Internet service is available free of charge as part of the in-stateroom “Infotainment System.” Additionally, AmaWaterways offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.

What is the dress code?
We recommend country club casual for dinner. Guests typically wear dressier attire for the Captain’s Gala dinner.

Is there an elevator on board?
Elevators are available onboard all vessels reaching the two highest passenger decks, reception area and restaurant. Elevator does nto go down to the lower cabin decks. Staircase from lower deck to 2nd deck is a spiral staircase.

What time is embarkation?
Official embarkation time is 3 p.m. for all ships. This allows the staff to prepare your stateroom and have the ship ready for the next departure. If you arrive earlier, you may check your luggage on board, and then explore the embarkation port city.

What time is disembarkation?
Official disembarkation time is 9 a.m. You may disembark earlier if the ship is moored in the location you are disembarking in, and you may disembark later providing you have vacated your stateroom and checked out before 9 a.m.

What language is spoken on board?
The official language on board is English on all ships. Most crew members speak fluent English. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English. All locals guides are fluent in English.

What are the tipping guidelines?
Gratuities to your Cruise Manager and ship crew are not included in the vacation price. While the amount of these gratuities will depend upon your degree of satisfaction for services received, many of our clients have asked us for general tipping guidelines. Here are our recommendations:

For good service, we recommend 3 Euros per passenger, per day for the Cruise Manager and 12 Euros per passenger, per day for the crew, which will be divided up among the ship’s personnel. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide by leaving a tip of 1-2 Euros per tour. Gratuities on most vessels, but not all, may be charged on credit card as well as cash.

Is smoking allowed on board?
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside any of the ships. Smoking is only permitted on the Sun Deck. For the safety and comfort of all passengers on board, your cooperation in observing the no-smoking policy is greatly appreciated.

What amenities are available in the staterooms?
Each stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer, plush terry bathrobes, slippers and a safe. Your bathroom offers a magnifying mirror and spa-quality toiletries including soaps, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.

Are there phones in the staterooms?
Each stateroom has its own telephone, along with instructions for use. Phones may be used to call from stateroom to stateroom and ship to shore. Since the telephone system functions via GSM, there may be times, depending on location, when service is unavailable. Any charges for calls will be billed to your shipboard account. Please inquire at the reception desk for rates.

Is air conditioning available in the staterooms?
All staterooms in are equipped with individual climate control. If you have any questions regarding your stateroom’s temperature control, please refer to the instructions or check with the reception desk.

Is there a Fitness Center on board?
Each ship has a fitness room with a selection of exercise equipment. Use of the equipment is at the sole risk of the user. Hours of operation vary according to the ship. There is no attendant on duty and therefore, without limitation, AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the fitness room.

What electrical current is on the ship?
Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you.

Is there laundry service on board?
Laundry services are available on board for a fee. Price lists are available in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board.

Are there medical facilities on board?
There are no medical facilities on board. However medical services can easily be called from shore if required.

Are bicycles available?
Each ship has a limited number of bicycles and helmets available for use when the ship is docked. When appropriate, a sign-up sheet is used to request the bicycles. Use of the bicycles is at your own risk. Therefore, without limitation, AmaWaterways and all of its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during their use.

Are all meals included on board?
All meals on board the ships are included in the cruise price. Meals are served in the dining room in a single seating. For dinner, passengers will be seated by a dining room host.

What type of cuisine is served on board?
All meals are skillfully prepared by European chefs and consist of Continental cuisine
made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Breakfast is buffet-style with selections available from the menu as well. Lunch is also buffet-style with salads, soups and a selection of hot buffet items, hot entrees and desserts. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a choice of delicious entrees, including a vegetarian option.

What is the beverage policy on board?
Coffee and tea are available free of charge throughout the day and during meals. Specialty coffees, such as espresso and café latte are also available free of charge. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at additional cost. During lunch and dinner, local wines soft drinks and beer are available on a complimentary basis. Complimentary bottled water is replenished daily.

Are excursions included?
A sightseeing tour is included in each city or town you visit, along with free time to explore the city according to your own interests. The sightseeing tours can take place on foot, via motor coach, or a combination of the two. Each tour is led by a qualified, licensed English-speaking local guide or your Cruise Manager. In addition to our Gentle and Active Walkers groups noted in our Health and Well-Being section, for some excursions, we have a “Late Starter” option for guests who wish to sleep in but do not want to miss key tour highlights. For those guests interested in exploring Europe from an exciting new perspective, we offer guided bicycle tours in select cities (capacity controlled). In the event of water level problems on certain stretches of the river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach or to alter the daily program as determined by the ship’s Captain.

Are audio sets provided during the tours?
During shore excursions, we provide a sophisticated audio headset system that allows guests to comfortably listen to their tour guide while taking photos or admiring some of Europe’s hidden gems.

Is there a beauty salon on board?
Various beauty and hair treatments as well as massages are available on board. Please inquire at the reception desk for a list of services and to schedule an appointment.

Is there a gift shop on board?
The ship has an onboard gift shop that sells accessories, souvenirs, gifts, and a limited selection of personal and toiletry items. Opening hours vary according to itinerary.

Is there a pool on board?
All ships are equipped with a whirlpool or heated swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. Saunas are available on select ships. There is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is at the sole risk of the user. AMAWATERWAYS and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the whirlpool, pool or sauna.
Please note there is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is solely at your own risk.

What is the minimum age to travel with AmaWaterways?
All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a cabin with an adult, and must remain supervised at all times, and their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). Children between the ages of 4 – 10 at the time of embarkation may share a cabin with 2 adults provided the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony cabins of any kind may be unsafe for small children if left unsupervised. Children 4-7 years old are not recommended on any program and on our Africa program, due to safety precautions, there is a minimum age limit of 12 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities. Please let us know if you need anything else.