Cruise the Languedoc in the south of France aboard an 8-passenger barge-hotel (7 days - 6 nights). This barge is of classic Dutch design, rebuilt to navigate the 300-year old Canal du Midi. It has been completely refurbished in the tasteful tradition of African hardwoods, hand-crafted paneling and shining brass, creating a comfortable and charming ambiance. This cruise offers wonderful views of the deep blue Mediterranean and a fabulous visit to one of the largest and best-preserved medieval walled cities in Europe.
Typical Itinerary (actual program may vary)
Day 1, Sunday: Marseillan. You will be met at a specified hotel in Montpellier at 4 p.m. You will be escorted by minibus to the barge moored in the fishing village of Marseillan. Champagne welcome followed by time to relax or take a stroll around this lovely fishing village and along the towpath. Dinner on board.
Day 2, Monday: Marseillan to Portiragnes. Morning cruise from Marseillan to Portiragnes. Visit the old Greco-Phoenician port of Agde and explore its winding, medieval streets. Afternoon wine tasting at the 14th-century Château de Perdiguier, famed for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Dinner on board the barge.
Day 3, Tuesday: Portiragnes to Béziers. This morning we visit Pézenas, a delightful village mostly known for its association with the French playwright Molière, who is said to have written many plays while staying there. We then cruise to the bottom of the Fonseranes 7-lock flight at Béziers, where we continue along the 300-year-old tree-lined Canal du Midi. Dinner in Béziers.
Day 4, Wednesday: Béziers to Poilhes. This morning we cross the aqueduct over the River Orb and then ascend the 7-lock flight of Fonseranes before reaching the world’s oldest canal tunnel at Malpas. On arrival at the picturesque village of Poilhes we take an excursion out to Minerve, the ancient capital of Minervois, which boasts a 12th-century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges. Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215, its hill-top location affords spectacular views. A fascinating recreation in miniature of the bloody Cathar rebellion and a small museum complete the intriguing picture. Dinner on board the barge.
Day 5, Thursday: Poilhes to Argeliers. Morning visit to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy the Archbishop’s Palace and Horreum. Explore the indoor market at the hub of this bustling canal-side town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere. Return to the barge for a cruise along the shaded winding canal to Argeliers, stopping off en route at Domaine de Guery, a 500-year-old canalside vineyard, for a pre-dinner wine tasting of the full-bodied Corbières. Dinner on board.
Day 6, Friday: Argeliers to Le Somail. Morning visit to Carcassonne. Dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence today. With its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defenses, it resisted the many armies that tried to storm this Camelot setting. Captain's farewell dinner on board the barge.
Day 7, Saturday: Le Somail to Béziers. After breakfast, return to Béziers around 11:00 a.m. - end of cruise.
On alternate weeks, cruise will be in the reverse direction.
This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change without notice.
Highlights:
- Greco-Phoenician port of Agde
- Wine tasting at local winery
- Fortified city of Carcassonne.
Included:
- Accommodations with private bath or shower and all meals from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 7
- Wine with lunch and dinner and selected alcoholic beverages consumed aboard the barge
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees as specified
- Round trip transfers from specified meeting points.
Not Included:
- Transportation to and from beginning and end points
- Health and travel insurance
- Crew gratuities
- Superior vintage wines
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities when available
- Other items not specifically listed under "Included" above.
Barge Features:
- Cabins: 4 twins (8 passengers)
- 4 crew members
- Size: 100 ft. long
- Spa/Jacuzzi
- Air conditioning and central heating
- Air-conditioned coaches for excursions.
Departures every Sunday subject to availability (except winter)
This barge can be chartered or tandemed with a sister ship for groups. Various itineraries, themes and dates can be arranged to fit the specific interests of each group. Extra customized trips and excursions may be added before or after the cruise.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Low season: US$3590 per person double occupancy. Add $500 for high season, $1300-$1500 single supplement.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
France
Barging
Food & Wine
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