Barges , France
The 13 passenger L'Impressionniste the sister ship to le Belle-Epoque began life as a cargo barge in Holland, before undergoing a complete transformation into the powerful canal and river cruiser she is today. She has a light and airy interior reminiscent of the turn of the century era and decorated with a selection of prints, fabrics and wall colourings. Crewed by a knowledgeable Captain, Master Chef and crew of three, she travels through Burgundy visiting Dijon, famed for its mustard. Wine connoisseurs will delight in visits on the Route des Grands Crus and gastronomes will enjoy lunch at the Michelin starred restaurant at Abbaye de la Bussiere.
Sunworshippers head to the beaches from June to September. The climate is mainly temperate with the south enjoying hot summers and mild winters.
Bordeaux, Geneva, Marseilles and Paris (British Airways), Nice and Lyon (British Airways or bmi)
Paris and Avignon (Eurostar)
GMT +1