Luxury Barge Cruises - Why They're So Popular

A barge cruise in France on the Loire and one its stream, the Cher, is one of the supreme holiday familiarity of our modern times. That's at least partially attributable to the luxury of many of the 'floating hotels' that ply these picturesque waters, but also for the opportunity to come up close and very personal with some of the most impressive medieval military fortifications in Europe.

Seeing France via its rivers

In centuries past, many towns and cities used the rivers as their major highways. The roads were often little more than dirt tracks and were both slow and highly dangerous to travel. Thus, understandably, many medieval French towns tended to be constructed around their rivers and caused their own 'ports' upon them.

Nowhere is that more true than in the Loire Valley, and that's why a barge cruise in France is such a neat way to visit towns like Tours and incomparable chateaux such as Villandry and Valençay. Many of these townships, small towns and castles were always intended to be approached from the river and that's why you'll find such spectacular vistas.

You're near enough to shore on your barge cruise to wave at people as you run by. The barges typically stop each day and then passengers can take off, walk or bicycle into town, shop and sightsee. Of course, you're always welcome to remain on board and simply unwind.

On any luxury barge cruise with family you'll be cared for top-notch cuisine. Mostly barge cruise prices consist of all your meals and wine, and some even take account of an exposed saloon. Meals are planned, but there is always a large pick of outstanding cheese, fruit and other snacks available at whatever time.

Prices vary from company to company, and even between barges within the same society. Once you determine where you desire to move and when, take  expression at the amenities offered between the different grades. For example, you may settle the standard First Class cabin is a little too modest, and upgrade to the larger Deluxe level of help. On some barges there is only one level, though, so know in advance what's important to you when you sail.

Luxury barge cruises are getting ahead in popularity. The time to experience one is forthwith, before the wait gets as long as the river.