Cruising the French Waterways in Style Aboard the Charter Barge C’est La Vie 

 
Cruising the French Waterways in Style Aboard the Charter Barge C’est La Vie 

The allure of France lies not only in its iconic landmarks and picturesque villages but also in its serene waterways that wind through the charming coutryside and vineyard-covered landscapes. Why not opt for a river cruise on your next trip to France? 

For those seeking a unique and leisurely way to explore the heart of France, a cruise aboard the hotel barge C’est La Vie offers an unparalleled experience. 

Luxury afloat 

This luxurious 38-metre hotel barge, an embodiment of boating elegance, is a floating oasis that promises relaxation and discovery. Embarking on a voyage through some of the most beautiful areas of northern and central France, passengers are treated to an intimate and immersive experience that showcases the best of the area they are exploring. 

C’est La Vie  is a floating boutique hotel designed to pamper and delight its guests. With a maximum capacity of just eight passengers, the atmosphere on board is intimate, ensuring personalised service and attention to detail. It’s an ideal cruise to spend time with dear friends or to celebrate a family milestone. The ensuite cabins, adorned with tasteful décor, provide a comfortable retreat after a day of cruising and exploration. 

As you navigate through the French waterways, C’est La Vie’s common areas beckon with warmth and sophistication. The panoramic sundeck offers a perfect vantage point to soak in the breathtaking landscapes as you cruise calmy by, the inviting salon provides a cozy space for socializing and enjoying gourmet meals while the bar is always well stocked! 

The on-board chef, dedicated to showcasing the best of local flavours, curates a menu that pairs perfectly with the wines of the region. The chef takes inspiration from the bountiful local markets, creating a gastronomic experience that mirrors the richness of the French countryside. From freshly baked croissants at breakfast to a candlelit dinner featuring regional specialties, every meal is a celebration of the country’s culinary prowess. Guests can also savour carefully selected wines, enhancing the dining experience with the perfect complement to each dish. 

Cest La Vie – Luxury Hotel Barge

Exploring the French countryside  

While the barge itself is so comfortable it may prove difficult to leave, the real magic lies in the daily excursions that allow passengers to step ashore and explore the charming villages and historical sites that dot the French countryside. C’est La Vie moors in enchanting locations, allowing guests to wander through cobblestone streets, visit local markets, and savour the authenticity of rural France. 

The knowledgeable crew doubles as tour guides as they take passengers on outings. C’est La Vie operates in the Upper Loire, Hauts-de-Francea and the Champagne area for five or six-night cruises. A special golf cruise is also available 

These cruises bring passengers up close to stunning waterside châteaux and remarkable engineering feats such as the suspended canal de Briare but also the opportunity to visit World War One museums and sites. 

For oenophiles, the journey aboard C’est La Vie is a dream come true. Guided visits to vineyards and wine tastings provide an intimate understanding of the terroir and the winemaking traditions that have made these destinations famous.  

Discover sites such as the Briare canal-bridge © DeepGreen / shutterstock

Escape from the hubbub 

With the slow rhythm of the cruise, a stay aboard C’est La Vie is also a sure way to get away from it all and switch off. Indeed, why not take the opportunity for a digital detox during the cruise? Sit back, watch the landscape float by, perhaps enjoy bird-spotting and see the splash of a coypu if you’re lucky and, at night, rediscover the joy of stargazing as the barge moors up in places with minimal light pollution in the countryside. 

Cruise dates are available from April to October and booking is already open for 2024 and 2025! 

More information: https://www.charterbargefrance.com/

© C’est La Vie

Lead photo credit : © C'est La Vie

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Sophie is Digital Editor for France Today. Raised in Burgundy to British parents, she grew up bilingual in a small village where summers were about forest walks and lazy swims in the river. A Franco-British citizen, she studied literature, then journalism in Paris and Cardiff before quickly dipping her toes (and quill) into travel writing. She’s been specialised and writing about France since 2016 and now works from her home office in north-east France.

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