- Emphasises private and often exclusive tours
- Now available, the brochure features private wine tastings, tours and cooking demonstrations among the latest immersive experiences
European Waterways has released its brand-new 2022 hotel barge cruising brochure – a comprehensive guide to cruising the canals and smaller waterways of Europe and the U.K. The brochure features new excursions to charming cultural attractions, as well as enhanced experiences that offer more immersive, “deep dives” into the various cruise regions. It includes easy-to-navigate guides that allow travellers to effortlessly find their perfect cruise – from the ideal itinerary, to the time to travel, to which barge style best suits their travel interests and needs.
European Waterways’ Managing Director Derek Banks says the company has ramped up its offerings of exclusive excursions and experiential outings for 2022 to meet travellers’ demand for unique and more memorable activities.
“Many of our guests tell us that they’ve ‘been there, done that’ aboard the larger river and ocean vessels, and they yearn for the truly unique activities that our smaller, more intimate barges provide,” said Banks. “You can’t offer ‘exclusive tours’ for a hundred people. Since most of our barges hold a maximum of 12 guests, exclusivity is our specialty!”
He added: “For 2022, we went in search of the more hidden gems and less crowded attractions that are tailor-made for small groups – and are often overlooked by visitors.”
A Lasting Impression
As part of L’Impressionniste’s cruise in Southern Burgundy, for example, European Waterways has added a private tour and tasting at Domaine Chanson, one of the region’s most historic wine makers. The classic cruise also features a second wine tasting during the week, to Domaine Rion, a family-owned vineyard spanning five generations.
The brochure also highlights the hotel barge Renaissance, which cruises the Canal de Briare, France’s oldest canal. Guests on this unique journey can enjoy a fascinating visit to the studio of the most celebrated female artist of the 19th century – Rosa Bonheur – which has remained untouched since her death more than 120 years ago. The artist is best known for the extraordinary accuracy and attention to detail of her animal paintings, alongside an unusual friendship with American soldier, bison hunter and showman – Buffalo Bill.
Renaissance will also treat guests to a more in-depth tour of Château de Fontainebleau, one of France’s largest royal palaces. The château served as a residence for a series of French monarchs, from Louis VII to Napoleon III, the latter who was a nephew of Napoleon I. The newly enhanced private tour includes a visit to Napoleon III’s sumptuous, recently restored Imperial Theatre, as well as certain rooms and galleries that are normally excluded from public view.
For the artistically inclined, European Waterways offers the opportunity to participate in a pottery class at the Château de Ratilly, an impressive 13th century medieval castle that today serves as a haven for artists. Meanwhile, food lovers can savour a cooking demonstration in the picturesque gardens of the Château de la Bussière, hosted by the barge’s chef. The château is also known as the “fishermen’s castle” because it features a museum of freshwater fish.
European Waterways’ 2022 brochure is free and can be ordered directly from the company, or viewed online – both via the website: www.europeanwaterways.com.
SOURCE: European Waterways
