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Barge Cruises in France ~
Midi
- Narbonne
A
canal cruise among medieval towns and lush vineyards. Cruise
the Languedoc region in southern France aboard a luxury 8-passenger barge-hotel
(7 days - 6 nights). Discover
the ancient citiy of Carcassonne, the largest medieval fortified city in Europe.
Enjoy tastings of regional wines and olive oil. And stroll through colorful local
markets. All of this while gently floating down the peaceful canal du Midi. 
TYPICAL
BARGE CRUISE ITINERARIY
(actual program may vary)
Day
1 - Sunday:
Narbonne to Puichéric.
You will be met at the Narbonne TGV station (or the Chateau l'Hospitalet Hotel
in Narbonne) at 4 pm and escorted to the barge, moored near Puichéric.
Champagne welcome and dinner on board the barge. Day
2 - Monday:
Puichéric to Jouarres.
Morning tour of medieval Carcassonne with its massive ramparts and 52 watchtowers,
all perfectly restored. Afternoon cruise along the 330 year old Midi canal descending
its trademark locks and past "l'Epanchoir", one of the canal bridges
invented by Pierre Riquet for the Canal du Midi. In the evening we will moor at
Jouarres lock, a pleasant bicycle ride from Homps village. Dinner on board the
barge. Day
3 - Tuesday:
Jouarres to Bassanel.
Morning cruise under the shade of the plane trees which line the canal, Late morning
excursion to the bustling village of Olonzac and its street market. Afternoon
excursion to a wine tasting at Chateau Saint Jacques d'Albas in the Minervois,
one of the few regions to receive the much envied French mark of approval for
wines known as A.O.C. (Appellation d'Origine Controlée). Upon return to
the barge we continue cruising to a picturesque mooring under the trees, a perfect
opportunity to try your hand at pétanque the local sport of boules followed
by an alfresco dinner on board. the barge. Day
4 - Wednesday: Bassanel to Roubia.
The Benedictine Abbey of Lagrasse is on the schedule this morning. Founded in
the 8th century, the village of Lagrasse is a proud recipient of the prestigious
title “plus beaux villages de France” (most beautiful villages in France).
It is now home to many artisans who work in the medieval center. Today, you will
have a chance to sample some local cuisine with lunch ashore in a spectacular
setting overlooking the hills of the Corbières. Afternoon cruise to Roubia.
Dinner on board the barge. Day
5 - Thursday: Roubia to Le Somail.
Morning cruise through vineyards and pine trees to the charming and historical
village of the Le Somail. Take some time to explore the old bookstore. Afternoon
excursion to "Oulibo", Occitan for olive, this cooperative olive oil
press is a great opportunity to sample the famous Lucques. We continue by minibus
to Minerve, the ancient capital of the Minervois, which boasts a 12th century
Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges. Besieged by Simon de Montfort
in 1215, its hilltop location affords spectacular views. Dinner on board the barge. Day
6 - Friday:
Le Somail to Sallèles d’Aude.
This morning’s excursion takes you to Narbonne, a prosperous city under both
the Romans and the Visigoth monarchs. Enjoy a visit to the Archbishop's Palace
and the indoor market at the hub of this bustling commercial center with time
for shopping. Afternoon cruise on the Robine Canal, built to link the the Canal
du Midi and the Mediterranean. Final mooring in the village of Sallèles
d’Aude. Farewell dinner on board the barge. Day
7- Saturday: Sallèles d’Aude.
After breakfast depart from Sallèles d’Aude and return to designated
drop off point.
On
alternate weeks, cruise will be
in the reverse direction.
This itinerary is subject to change without notice.
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Highlights -
The medieval walled city of Carcassonne, a World Heritage Site
- Wine
and olive oil tastings
- 8th-century
abbey of Lagrasse
- Hilltop
village of Minerve
- Narbonne's
colorful indoor market and the Archbishop's Palace
- Picturesque
Canal du Midi
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 in Narbonne
- Health
and travel insurance
- Barge
crew gratuities (suggested 5-7% of cruise price)
- Superior
vintage wines
- Personal
expenses
- Optional
activities when available
- Other
items not specifically listed under "Included" above
Barge
Features - 4
cabins:
(165 sq. ft. each) can be set up as twin or queen (8 passengers)
- 4
crew members
- Length:
100 ft.
- Sundeck
- Air
conditioning and central heating
- Air-conditioned
minibus for excursions
Cruise
Departures Every
Sunday subject to availability (except winter)
This
barge can be chartered for groups. Various themes (wine, painting, golf, tennis,
family cruise) can be arranged to fit the specific interests of each group. Contact
us for details. DEPARTURES
AND PRICES BOOK
YOUR CRUISE [top]
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