This review was written in good faith and in return for a complimentary river cruise offered by this operator. The gifted cruise was to be won by one of our readers in our luxury travel auction.
It is with deep regret that we share that since we have written and published this article, France cruises stopped replying to our emails and never honored their promised prize. Our winner never got their cruise. We can therefore no longer recommend this company.
France is home to some of the most famous and beautiful rivers in Europe, if not the world, including the Seine and the Rhone. Nothing could be more magical than taking a cruise along one of the many waterways, taking in its world-renowned history and culture, and savoring the culinary delights and fine wines that France has to offer.
France Cruises
The best way to truly experience France is without doubt by water. For nearly twenty years France Cruises have been providing an array of unique experiences to a variety of authentic destinations: From the smaller intimate cruises such as their canal hotel barges right up to their larger scale riverboat cruises, travel experts France Cruises can create your ultimate luxury vacation package in France.
Providing tailor-made travel experiences with off-the-beaten-path travel arrangements, France Cruises offers personalized travel packages designed to meet your specific vacation needs. Professional advice and insider tips coupled with their experience, expert knowledge, and outstanding contacts provide the best travel options possible and that ultimate trip of a lifetime.
As well as the variety of authentic French destinations to consider, they also offer cruises in England, Ireland, Scotland, Holland & Belgium, and Italy too. For holidaymakers wanting perhaps less crowded, but still charmingly scenic river cruises, England may well be the perfect destination.
Why not try a quintessentially British river cruise, exploring the beautiful villages and countryside that England has to offer. Or perhaps fall in love with Venice and northern Italy with its picture-perfect canals, islands, and waterways.
One of our favorite cruises is the “La Vie En Rose” Burgundy Barge Cruise, aboard a luxury barge that caters to up to six passengers. This charming barge is comprised of three well-appointed en-suite air-conditioned cabins and two amazing outside decks where you can take in the breathtaking scenery whilst cruising up the Canal de Centre.
The Barge
Built in 1930 in Holland, La Vie en Rose was used for ferrying grain, stone, wood, and other dry cargo in Europe. Previous to her total refit and conversion into a hotel barge, in her previous life, La Vie En Rose was a “floating home” based in the center of Paris for 17 years, where she was owned and lived by the American Actor Sterling Hayden.
The Cruise
La Vie En Rose cruises on the picturesque Canal du Centre in the Southern Burgundy wine region, drifting past infinite landscapes with vineyards, pretty towns, and villages with their historic architecture. The week-long peaceful barging experience goes beyond visits to exceptional sites and the beauty of the landscapes: La Vie En Rose is also about being welcomed by true locals who are eager to share with you the regional culture & traditions.
Being aboard La Vie En Rose provides the opportunity to enjoy the local gastronomic delights at the “table” of your choice: from a local “auberge” to an iconic Michelin star restaurant. A truly wonderful cruise package that provides you with the opportunity to “live like a local” and experience authentic local restaurants along the route, all carefully selected and recommended by your Captain.
Highlights
With so much to experience, some of the highlights include visiting XIIe Century fortress of Chateau de Couches – the most complete medieval fortified city in existence and classified as a ‘Monument Historique’. With its fascinating history and beautiful grounds, it is certainly a treat to the eyes.
Wine tasting at the famous “Patriarche Cellars” is a must for wine lovers. These cellars are the longest cellars in Burgundy, and the history of the wine merchant is one of the oldest. A fantastic experience tasting and buying some amazing wines, and incredible to see such vast cellars and the sheer volume of wine bottles!
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Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Any auction prices listed correct at time of publication, but will be subject to change. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.
