Experience a barge cruise along French canals

Cruising the canals of France is not only an idyllic way to enjoy the rich offerings of the French countryside but a great alternative to the traditional river cruise.

True to its name, Back Roads Touring takes you on a unique journey of discovery at the gentle pace that is canal cruising by barge.

A relaxing way to take in the varied landscapes of France, canal cruising by smaller river vessel provides an intimate way to explore the lesser known waterways and experience quaint, out-of-the-way villages.

Here we look at why this mode of cruising is seeing a surge in popularity and what to expect on a small-group barge cruise in both Burgundy and Provence.

Canal cruises

Sailing round-trip from Paris, barge cruising takes the less-known canal arteries throughout France avoiding the larger, more congested river systems such as the Seine.

Canal cruising will have you up close and personal to quaint towns and villages where disembarking the barge means you step straight into the heart of the village. Relax as you pass by sleepy vineyards and rustic landscapes letting it all gently unfold in front of you.

As Back Roads Touring says, “If you are hankering to get to the heart of French history, culture and cuisine, our touring series afloat on the canals of France provide a truly special way of experiencing its abundance.”

On the Burgundy cruise, the Canal de Bourgogne will provide the route through the region’s verdant vineyards onboard MS Jeanine.

The Provence cruise uses Canal du Rhône à Sète to explore the treasures of southern France onboard MS Anne-Marie.

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RELATED STORIES

1. An introduction to Back Roads Touring
2. Five must-do Back Roads tours
3. When is the best time to cruise?

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Onboard a barge cruise

With exclusively chartered barge vessels, Back Roads Touring ensure all guests enjoy comfortable surroundings with modern and elegant touches.

With only 22 passengers onboard, this is the ultimate in small-group touring. Each of the two river vessels, MS Jeanine and MS Anne-Marie have their own dedicated chefs preparing exquisite dishes related to the region and locally-sourced from towns and villages along the way.

Meals are served at the indoors restaurant, or weather permitting, on the BBQ deck under the stars. One thing is assured, the all-inclusive meals will immerse you into the French cuisine … accompanied by fine French wine of course.

An experienced Back Roads tour leader, along with a professional crew, travel with you throughout the journey providing insightful commentary and ensuring your every need is met.

While tours are included, ample time in each of the stops is dedicated to exploring at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll through the villages, enjoy local markets or shops, or maybe use one of the onboard bicycles to explore the nearby surroundings.

The personalised service and intimate group size will allow you to relax and indulge as you enjoy the unhurried pace of barge cruising along peaceful waterways.

Comfort in quirky surrounds

With oversized windows to gaze at the passing scenery, the interior pays homage to bijou luxury. While the barge may be traditional looking from the outside, the modern interior is always a pleasant surprise for guests.

The lounge and bar areas are flooded with natural light and located in the heart of the vessel. While upstairs on the sundeck, outdoor lounge areas allow you to sit in the open air while cruising, or a tranquil place to enjoy an evening sundowner wine or cocktail under the stars.

Don’t forget your swimmers to enjoy the deck jacuzzi and each boutique cabin has a private en-suite with modern furnishings and décor.

Food and wine

Experiencing local cuisine when travelling can bring people together and unlock a country’s culture. And the dining onboard will certainly give you a sense of the region’s rich history and traditions passed from generation to generation.

Immersive experiences are included with your fare, such as a visit to Château Clos De Vougeot (on the Burgundy cruise) – a twelfth-century monastic winery that still features its medieval presses and original kitchens.

On the Provence tour, a visit to a family-run farm gives you the chance to taste delicious homemade olive oils and jams.

Relax onboard with your dedicated chef or enjoy eating like a local – the choice is  yours.

England, Scotland, Wales This adventure delves deep into Britain’s history and culture. In England, we celebrate ‘Great British Puddings’ and trace the footsteps of writers and poets. While in North Wales and Scotland, our journey highlights grand castles and plenty of spectacular scenery. Heart of England Discover the back streets of Oxford, The Cotswolds, Bath and Avebury and immerse yourself in the world of some of history’s greats. French Barge Cruising Rich and refined, Burgundy is as elegant and enticing as the fine wines produced there. But this tour shines a more voluminous light on the famous French region where the food and wine are but an accompaniment to the other great attractions found here. ANZAC Western Front Follow in the footsteps of heroes with an expert guide as you trace some of the most significant battlefields in Australia’s wartime history. Enchanting Italy Southern Italy arouses the senses. Step back in time in Naples, to the days of the Roman Empire. Tour ancient cities and marble temples, and explore pastel-hued villages on the Amalfi Coast, all while savouring exquisite regional cuisine. Corners of Cornwall From windswept moors and wild coastlines to historic cities and picture-perfect fishing villages, discover Cornwall and its many attractions. The region’s maritime heritage, rural beauty and culinary offerings will delight all who visit. Your tour provides plenty of free time too for independent discovery. The Emerald Isle Discover Ireland from north to south starting with the legendary Giant’s Causeway and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Your Back Roads tour will take you through charming Irish villages and across rugged peninsulas, where sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains create a dramatic setting for your Emerald Isle adventure.