Monday, October 7, 2013

The Reasons To Take A Barge Trip France

By Angel Dudley


The Industrial revolution left an amazing heritage in terms of its canals through Europe. There are thousands of miles of them which are now used for leisure rather than the carriage of goods. Throughout France you can find navigable waterways where you can hire a boat and have a relaxing holiday. There is so much choice it can be difficult to make a decision. Fortunately there are lots of online agents with all the information you need to choose the right barge trip France for your family.

There are around one hundred canals throughout the country. In the north you can even enjoy the capital city, Paris from a canal boat. The southern regions are famous for their superb vineyards and ancients village and towns.

The Canal du Midi has been the most popular destination for a boating trip for many years. It is situated in a region of rich variety. Even the canal is a heritage site, valued for its unique bridges, tunnels and locks. It is also famous for the thousands of trees which line its banks giving shade to the tourists enjoying the countryside.

This canal is a great example of the range of activities which are possible on a barge holiday. There are lots of adventure activities such as, canoeing and fishing. You can visit ancient fortified towns such as Carcassonne or Roman ruins and aqueducts. There are three wine growing areas just along this one stretch of canal.

France is perhaps most famous for its cuisine. Wine and cheese production are an art form which draw many tourists. Regional French cuisine is famous for its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Unlike many countries France has protected its artisan producers and so you can taste the best of everything. A boating trip is the perfect way to try French food as you can eat in modern restaurants in the cities, try country cooking and prepare your own food on board with the beautiful ingredients you encounter on the way.

There are two basic types of barge trip, charter or cruise. Hiring in a cabin in a cruise boat is extremely popular and the ultimate in relaxation as there is a top class crew tending all your needs. However for freedom and adventure you cannot beat a charter boat.

Travel agents in the country offer a wide variety of boats which are built to modern standards and are extremely comfortable. Charter boats are a real home away from home where you can fully relax and do whatever you like. On a cruise you will be looked after by a top class crew.

Being the skipper of your own canal boat is easy and you do not even need a licence. The rules of the waterways are pretty simple, nobody is going anywhere at high speeds. When you collect the boat the travel company will ensure you get a thorough briefing on how to pilot and maintain it. Many of the locks you will encounter are operated by trained staff who will guide you through.

There is so much to see on a barge trip France you will be spoiled for choice. You can soak up the cuisine, culture and art of the big cities or relax as the countryside passes by, or both. The history of the region is rich and long and so historical sites are easy to find and there are a huge variety. You can also do any number of adventure activity and even sail into the Mediterranean sea.




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