For those who would like to enjoy Paris in the spring and see the iconic landmarks from a different perspective, European Waterways is offering 10% off the charter price of its May 24, 2020 departure onboard hotel barge Panache.
One of its most unique hotel barge cruises for 2020, the cruise leaves from central Paris and passes some of the city’s famous landmarks that include Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower on its way to a six-day “voyage of discovery” through France’s Champagne region, visiting the likes of Moët & Chandon and Reims Cathedral. Guests can then return to Paris by private transfer or take advantage of many excellent transportation links in Champagne to continue their holiday in France.
The 10% off special represents a saving of €6,100 (approx. AU$9,765) off the regular €61,000 (approx. AU$97,650) 12-person charter price for the Panache.
“With reconstruction underway of Notre Dame following the dramatic fire, we’ve also seen a 30% increase in recent months in guests who are choosing Paris, the ‘City of Love’ as their connection point to many of our cruises”, said Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways. “Chartering the once-a-year cruise to the heart of Champagne aboard Panache is a great option for groups, who can conveniently combine the history and romance of Paris with the celebrated gastronomy of this stellar wine region.”
Every European Waterways hotel barge that cruises in France features wine excursions, friendly meet-and-greets with local personages, tours of royal and aristocratic residencies, and world-class cuisine. Meals are prepared by onboard master chefs and paired with local wines. The Panache cruise, which navigates the River Marne in the renowned Champagne region, is a prime example. Itinerary highlights include a visit to the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a pioneering feat of architecture that reflects the quintessential 17th-century French Baroque style and which inspired the construction of Versailles.
Panache’s classic cruise includes a visit to the Domaine of Champagne Henriot. Founded in the late 1700s, it is one of the oldest family owned houses in Champagne. Guests will tour the Henriot vineyard on the hillside above Epernay, where a viticulture expert will explain the grape selection process that produces the famous house wines. Guests will also receive a private tour of the 18th century Château d’Aulnois winery in the nearby village of Perry, where they will be treated to an exclusive tasting of various Henriot champagnes, followed by a gourmet lunch.
The itinerary also features an excursion to the renowned house of Moët & Chandon, where guests will tour its vast underground cellars and indulge in a private tasting of some classic Moët vintages in an elegant private salon.
In addition to Panache, European Waterways barges offering free private transfers to and from Paris include L’Art de Vivre in Burgundy, the Renaissance in the Upper Loire and Western Burgundy, L’Impressionniste in Southern Burgundy and the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque, which cruises Upper Burgundy. Other barges can be reached by rail or through the many convenient transportation options available in France.
For more information, call toll free from Australia 1800 828 050 or visit europeanwaterways.com.
SOURCE: European Waterways
