Travel is on “pause” for most of us, but our imagination is free to roam anywhere we want in the world! For those making future travel plans, a good destination to consider is the pastoral regions of Europe. Luxury hotel barges like those from European Waterways offer families and small groups a unique opportunity to enjoy the world-renowned wines of France and Italy, and the famed whiskies of Scotland.
“Our all-inclusive cruises feature superb regional wines paired with exceptional gastronomic meals every day, along with exclusive, experiential excursions that immerse travelers in the historical and culinary traditions of the region,” said Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways. “Every cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – or two- and three-times-in-a-lifetime, judging by the many repeat clients we get!”
European Waterways’ Rosa is a converted Dutch Clipper barge and one of the “stars” in celebrated master chef and restaurateur Rick Stein’s “French Odyssey” television series. Cruising the canals of Gascony and Bordeaux in southwest France, Rosa offers exclusive excursions such as private wine tastings at the prestigious Château Bellevue la Fôret winery. Guests will also enjoy an exclusive “Tea with a Countess” at the 18th century Château de la Motte that includes, for the 2020 season, a view of her private couture collection. They will also visit Moissac Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
European Waterways’ L’Art de Vivre once served as a supply vessel to the Allied troops in the Somme during World War One. Today it carries up to eight passengers in complete luxury and comfort as it cruises the Lower Nivernais Canal and the River Yonne in Burgundy. Among its exclusive offerings is a private tasting of Chablis and Petit Chablis at the prestigious Domaine Laroche, one of the largest landholders of Grand Cru vineyards. This is followed by a gastronomic private lunch in the domaine’s dining hall. Other excursions include a visit to the pilgrimage town of Vézelay with its hilltop basilica, and the elegant 12th century Château de Bazoches.
European Waterways’ Scottish Highlander’s rich wood paneling, tartan-themed decor and large picture windows offer the perfect setting for taking in the expansive natural beauty of the majestic Scottish Highlands. Various excursions highlight historic sites such as Eilean Donan and Urquhart castles. They include a visit to Glencoe, the scene of the bloody massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. More notably, guests are treated to a private tasting of some of Scotland’s finest Scotch on a tour of the award-winning Tomatin whisky distillery.
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