|
Barging, without a doubt, is my favorite way to travel. I have personally taken 17 barge trips, traveling in France, Holland, England, Scotland and Ireland. Each trip, lasting approximately a week, was as wonderful as it was unique. Each barge has been different... from the smallest of 4 passengers to the largest of 51 passengers...from the most luxurious to the most rustic. Each trip has provided its own charm and discoveries.
No other method of traveling compares to barging. There just isn’t a better way to experience intimate views of the local countryside... its rhythms, its people and their culture. All of this happens while you relax, enjoy and discover. As our agency trademark says, on a barge you have "taken the time" to smell the roses.
A typical day begins with a wonderful breakfast including fresh bakery goods from the local bakery—each day a different bakery. Then, after breakfast, perhaps off the barge for a refreshing walk along the canal path or a bike ride through the countryside and neighborhood villages. Or, if you prefer, ease into the morning, retire to the sun deck with fresh coffee and a good book, while the beautiful countryside unfolds before you.
Later you might be distracted by the aroma from the kitchen as lunch is being prepared. A colorful buffet including local wines and cheeses will be served topside, unless inclement weather dictates serving in the comfortable dining room below.
During the afternoon, your captain invites you to join him for an excursion via private motor coach to nearby points of special interest. Depending on the itinerary, these could be romantic castles, historic towns, renowned vineyards with wine tastings, medieval ruins or hot air balloon trips.
Returning to the barge in late afternoon, you might choose to relax by having a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail before dinner. (Almost all barges have an open bar and wine is always included in the price of your trip.)
Ah, yes, dinner. The captain by now has moored the barge in some impossibly beautiful spot. Every evening meal, as with all meals, is perfectly prepared by the barge’s own highly trained chef. You will be fascinated each evening by the remarkable cuisine produced in the tiny kitchen onboard.
After dinner, you might wander out on the deck with coffee or a cordial, watch the moon dance on the shimmering canal waters and say to yourself, "What a perfect day. I can’t wait for tomorrow. But unlike at home, I’m in no hurry. I’m just taking the time to smell the roses."
For more information on barges, contact Tucker Meyer via our contact page.
For the most personalized service anywhere, be sure to fill out our travel survey. |
