Visit on One of Many Wonderful Barge Trips in France

There are few things as satisfying in life as discovering a new destination. Your first visit will forever be etched in your memory, along with the tastes, the smells and the sights. Without a doubt this aspect is one of the best things about taking barge trips in France. The chance to stop off and visit so many renowned (and also lesser-known) places on the itinerary is the chance of a lifetime - and doing it in such a relaxed manner just can’t be beaten.

For frequent visitors to the country, Bordeaux may be a city that’s on your radar if you have not already managed to go. But whether it is your first time there or you’ve been numerous times before, there are always new things to discover on a shore excursion.

Brilliant Bordeaux

Many barge trips in France will eventually lead you along the Canal de Garonne and into the romantic and elegant city of Bordeaux. Whether you have a full day or just a few hours before your boat heads onwards, you’ll find plenty to do. From its fabulous food and wine to its long and interesting history, this bastion of French culture really has it all.

A Treat for Wine Lovers

Perhaps one of the most famous places in the world for wine, this is a good enough reason in itself for visitors on barge trips in France to visit. The region is renowned for its vineyards and châteaux, offering world famous tipples and interesting lesser-known varieties. Whether you prefer a guided tour, or independent sampling at the many, many wine bars, you will not leave disappointed.

A Grand Cathedral

For history and architecture lovers there is the Cathédrale Saint-André. It existed in some form almost a thousand years ago and there are several centuries of history on show in this celebrated landmark. For the active visitors, a climb to the top provides a great view!

Botanical Gardens

A wonderful, and perhaps unexpected, thing about the city is its beautiful Jardin Botanique. For keen gardeners and indeed anybody else who loves the natural radiance of picturesque landscapes, a visit here is a great way to spend a few hours away from the waterways.

Shopping Paradise

Rue Saint-Catherine is one of the longest shopping streets anywhere in Europe and for fans of designer clothes and well-known brands this is the place to come. It’s a great stop for anybody looking for a souvenir too, either for themselves or for those unlucky enough to be back at home!

All Aboard!

Barge trips in France provide a fantastic opportunity to see cities like Bordeaux up close and personal, without having to dedicate yourself to seeing just that one place. They offer a relaxed and enjoyable way of visiting cultural and gastronomic hotspots, and they make the journey itself a big part of the experience.

The most reliable way to get the most out of barge trips in France is to book with a reputable tour company who can ensure that your needs are met and your holiday runs as smoothly as possible.

Author Plate

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury barge trips in France. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience