2019 BOATING GUIDE


Hotels Afloat is based in Burgundy but now covers all of France's navigable inland waterways


experienced tour company presents itineraries with all the frills. Feast in Lyon, step back in time with a trip to Avignon and follow the footsteps of Van Gogh – or simply kick back and enjoy the view from the Emerald Liberté, whose excellent amenities will cater to your every whim. www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk Tel. +44 (0)808 159 4193


H2olidays


Get-togethers with friends, family reunions and romantic getaways… These memorable occasions are elevated somehow when they take place on a boat. Maybe it’s the languid pace of things, or the reflective


panoramas; perhaps it’s the novelty of getting behind the wheel and taking turns to play captain. With H2olidays, you can choose whether you man one of the self-drive boats available (no licence needed, luckily!) or let staff wine and dine you on a hotel barge or cruise ship. As well as boasting a broad choice of vehicles and scenic waterways, the company’s Franco-American team – who speak fluent English, French, German and Spanish – will help you find your perfect cruise. www.barginginfrance.com


Hotels Afloat


Barging comes in many shapes and sizes. Whether you’re


seeking a hands-on self-drive holiday, a relaxed half-board cruise with a captain, or a fully-inclusive, luxury hotel barge cruise, British owner Emma and her experienced team are dedicated to finding your perfect trip. Created in 2003, this passionate Burgundy-based company has a long history founded on customer satisfaction. All of France’s navigable inland waterways are covered, so you never have to miss out on your dream destination, and a diverse fleet of barges means you can cherry- pick your favourite. www.hotelsafloat.com Tel. +33 (0)6 14 25 02 00 info@hotelsafloat.com


La Bélandre


No boats had plied the River Cher for 80 years – at least, not until La Bélandre swanned along, determined to revive this long-lost tradition. The company’s château-bound boats cast off from Chisseaux, skirting forested and vine-covered slopes before slipping under the very arches of Château de


Chenonceau itself. This romantic journey is complemented by live commentary and superb cuisine from the on-board restaurant, so history enthusiasts and gourmands alike will revel in the unique experience. Lunch cruises are available from June through to October, whilst smaller boat trips can be


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IMAGE © HOTELSAFLOAT.COM


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