In southern France, a leisurely getaway awaits on a luxury barge hotel cruise with European Waterways. Imagine six nights of cruising the Canal du Midi surrounded by picturesque vineyards and historic villages, while indulging in authentic French cuisine and wine pairings. It’s a mode of travel that offers small groups of up to eight passengers an intimate look at a scenic region.

Although this trip was hosted by European Waterways, all opinions and reviews expressed in this article are my own and reflect my honest experiences.

Here’s what led my sister Lynn and me on this ultimate adventure.

The trip originated after an invitation to participate in a writing residency in southwest France, near Agen. Working around this adventure in the French countryside where I would spend time in a 300-year-old farmhouse, our days spent in workshops learning about food and memoir writing, leisurely strolls along the canal or in the gardens, or enjoying a bounty of French cooking using ingredients we purchased at the farmers market.

I spent two weeks solo in France, traveling from Paris to Agen for the residency, then on to Bordeaux for three nights, and Narbonne for three nights.

It was in Nabonne that my sister, Lynn met me for the European Waterways luxury barge cruise. I met her at the train station and we were picked up by our captain, Laurent, to begin the cruise. Laurent drove us to Le Somail, where a champagne reception awaited us when we boarded our home for the week, the Anjodi.

Anjodi

The Anjodi is a first-class hotel barge featuring four elegantly appointed cabins. The vessel accommodates up to eight passengers for cruises on the Canal du Midi. We would sail from Le Somail to Marseillan aboard the Anjodi that has been has been sailing the Canal du Midi for 40 years.

On top of the deck is a long table for guests to sip champagne and appetizers as they watch the countryside slowly pass by, enjoy an evening of jazz, or take a front-row seat as the barge passes through the various locks. There’s also a hot tub providing the ultimate setting for a relaxing soak.

Step down the wooden steps into the galley and you’ll find the main dining area. Each night, the crew sets an elaborate table setting to complement each meal. There are two wines served with lunch and dinner and the open bar is stocked with regional as well as top-shelf spirits. There’s a couch for lounging below deck, and plenty of books, games, and even a guitar for entertainment.

The Historic Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a testament to human ingenuity and engineering. Running 150 miles from Toulouse to Sète on the Mediterranean coast, the 17th-century canal was created to open a navigable route to enhance trade and military mobility. Spearheaded by Pierre-Paul Riquet, the wealthy engineer spent much of his fortune to bring the canal to completion. Beginning in 1666, the canal’s design included 126 locks, many aqueducts, and tunnels, to allow the barges to traverse the varied terrain of southern France.

In the late 20th century, efforts were initiated to preserve and restore the canal. In 1996, Canal du Midi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, the canal is honored for its historical importance, but also for its destination for leisure and tourism.

Prepare for Scenic Beauty and Relaxation

Unlike large cruise ships with their casinos and endless entertainment, a barge cruise on the canal is all about immersion in the landscape, the food and wine, the culture, and the place. The canal floats past ancient villages, lush vineyards, and the rolling countryside. Although there are daily tours to cities along the way, there’s plenty of opportunity to relax and watch the scenery pass by. The locks and their intricate design are a highlight of the adventure, particularly when it passes through the seven locks, a staircase of locks that takes about 45 minutes to traverse.

Exploring Southern France

Each day brings a tour to introduce guests to the history and culture of the area. Whether a tour of Carcassonne,  a truffle hunting expedition, a visit to the market with the chef, or a private wine tasting at a chateaux, it’s an up-close look at these historic cities.

Prepare to be wowed by the food and drinks aboard the Anjodi. Each chef-prepared meal featured gourmet food, local ingredients, and attention to detail.

The service is unparalleled. Having a small group ensures attention to detail and personalized care.

The cabins are small yet functional with multiple cabinets and compartments for storing personal items. It felt like a cocoon and I enjoyed taking an afternoon nap or reading a book in bed on a rainy afternoon.

The crew consists of the captain, two hostesses who handle serving and housekeeping, a chef, and a tour guide. Each member of the crew is friendly and professional, and their personalities create a memorable and enjoyable experience.

FAQ

What is a typical day like?

Each evening the next day’s activities are written on a chalkboard Guests gather for breakfast at about 8 a.m. for a variety of fresh fruit, cheese, bread, cereals, milk, juice, and coffee or tea. Eggs are prepared upon request. After breakfast, the group sets off with the tour guide to explore. An afternoon might be spent cruising along the canal to the next destination. Lunch and dinner are served in courses with wine pairings.

How much does it cost?

The 2024 pricing for a 6-night cruise aboard the 8-passenger Anjodi starts at $5,690 per person and includes all meals, wine, an open bar, tours and excursions, and transfer at the beginning and end of the cruise.

Is there a Captain’s dinner

Yes, the highlight of the week culminates with champagne and canapes on deck with the entire crew. Everyone dresses up and the Captain joins the guests for dinner and drinks. After a week of laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying the company of the crew, the Captain’s dinner was the perfect ending to an enchanting week.

Learn more about European Waterways luxury hotel barge cruises.