Canal du Midi next Spring

With the thought of those cold Winter months fast approaching, planning a trip to the stunning Canal du Midi next Spring is a most appealing option. Luxury hotel barge operator European Waterways offers a range of relaxing, 6-night cruises on the waterways of France, including aboard the 8-passenger Enchanté, with its spacious cabins, which are the largest of any hotel barge on the 300-year old Canal du Midi, a UNESCO world heritage site.

One of the most luxurious barges in the fleet, Enchanté, with its double decks is contemporary in style, with 4 beautifully-appointed, en-suite twin, or double suites, air-conditioning, a large lounge/saloon, sun deck with hot tub, alfresco dining area, and a demonstration galley where guests can watch the skilled chef at work.

The Enchanté’s tastefully furnished interior features exotic hardwoods and a remodelled dining area with a stylish, contemporary twist, bring to this barge “a new level of luxury and comfort on the famed Canal du Midi,” according to Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways.

“Enchanté has consistently attracted strong bookings, especially in the Spring, as guests seek to shake off the chill of winter and escape the fast-paced city to drift slowly down a tree-lined canal and watch nature take its course,” said Banks. “Springtime is one of the sunnier periods of the year for the historic region, bringing the countryside to life with almond blossoms and lush green hills.”

Known locally as Le Midi, this region of Southern France is one of the most picturesque and popular holiday destinations in the world, particularly in the Spring, when the weather is warm and an abundance of wild flowers such as poppies and mimosa – adorn the banks of the tree-lined canal.

During a classic Canal du Midi cruise aboard Enchanté, from Puichéric to Sallèles d’Aude, guests will experience during their voyage: excursions to Cathar hilltop towns like Minerve; historic Narbonne and the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne; wine tastings at a renowned vineyard; and all with the backdrop of a widely diverse landscape overlooked by the distant Pyrenees Mountains.

Bikes are available for the guests to explore the towpaths and the barge is also equipped with DVD/TV, a computer with internet access and a CD/iPod sound system.

While on board, guests will be pampered by the professional crew – Captain, Master Chef, Tour Guide and Housekeeper – and enjoy gourmet cuisine, accompanied by expertly-selected wines, including fine examples of the local Minervois and Cotes de Roussillon.

This area of France is served by excellent regional airports and airlines, including Air France and British Airways, as well as by the ultra-fast TGV rail services from Paris.

Prices in 2013 for a 6-night cruise aboard hotel barge Enchanté, with departures between March and May, are from £3,670pp in a twin/double suite, including all meals, wines, an open bar, excursions and local transfers. Full boat charters also available from £25,380 (6 people).

Note to Editors:

Europe’s largest luxury hotel barge operator, European Waterways offer traditionally 6-night departures along the canals, rivers and lagoons of nine European countries. These ultra-relaxing holidays include: all gourmet meals on board, selected, quality wines, open bar, daily escorted shore excursions, local transfers and the use of all barge facilities such as bicycles and spa pools.

European Waterways’ fully-crewed, luxury vessels accommodate between 6 and 20 guests. Clients can choose to either join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual cabin basis, or charter a whole boat with family and friends. The average crew ratio is one crew member for every two passengers and includes Captain, Chef, Tour Guide and Hostesses, ensuring a very high level of service.

For more information/reservations, visit www.gobarging.com or contact European Waterways:

Tel: +44(0) 1753 598555 Email: sales@gobarging.com