Attention s’il vous plait: Want to see France in a completely different light? Well, you’ve come to the right place! While the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are must-sees on any traveler’s bucket list, Belmond Afloat in France(formerly known as Orient Express) has created an out-of-this-world travel experience for those looking for a completely unique French experience.
Afloat in France was designed to show travelers the splendor of the French Countryside, while floating down the crisscrossing waterways on a luxury barge. With stunning landscape, delicious meals and hearty wines, this travel experience is a must for all Posh Voyage travelers.
You can choose one of the 5 luxury barges (also known as péniche-hôtels) as your transportation through the heart of France. Each péniche-hôtel offers it’s own route throughout the French countryside, so there is no repeat experience on any of the 5 barges. When it comes to the itinerary, the choice is yours. You can direct the barge anywhere you like!
Each péniche-hôtel is equipped with a sundeck and lounge area, bicycles for on-land excursions and a crew and chef to be at your beck and call. Onboard, guests will experience gourmet French dining where regional wine and cheese are a staple of every meal. Spend one day truffle hunting and bring back your finds for that evening’s dinner!
Even better, the crew of each péniche-hôtel works, not only as a wait staff, but also as a concierge service to ensure that guests onboard accomplish all they desire on their vacation. For example, those traveling throughout Béziers receive an itinerary designed specifically to showcase the region’s famous wine and bull-fighting. Ride bikes down this quiet town’s small roads and discover hidden cafes where you can enjoy a chocolate croissant and cappuccino, and later marvel at views of the Orb River and Canal du Midi.
So, for all those travelers out there looking to indulge in all the decadence France has to offer, Afloat in France is the ideal vacation for you!
Photographs courtesy of the property.