Saturday, June 15, 2013

5 Great Things To Do On a Barge Holiday In France

Taking a barge holiday in France is an unforgettable experience, with the beauty of the French countryside, the many wonderful cultural and historical sites to visit, and the laid-back atmosphere of life on the canals. Barge holidays can be as relaxed or as action-packed as you like, with a diverse range of activities and outings that can be made from your floating home. Here are five of the best.
Discover Local History
No matter what part of the country your barge holiday in France takes you to, there is bound to be plenty of fascinating heritage sites along the route - this is, after all, a land of rich and colourful history. From Celtic and Roman days to the intrigue of Medieval France and beyond, there is no end of interesting sights to see - even the canals themselves are full of historic interest, many of them having been constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Enjoy the Cuisine
One of the real perks of visiting France is the excellent food. No matter what region you are visiting, there will be sumptuous local specialties to try, and travelling via river or canal means that you are never too far away from some of the finest agricultural producers in the country. From canal-side meals of freshly caught fish to daytrips into country market towns, a barge holiday in France is a foodie's paradise.
Get Active
The main mode of transport on a canal holiday may be boat, but it is not the only option - many trip operators offer walking, cycling, horse riding and more for those who want to change the pace up a bit. As canals pass through some prime golfing spots, a day playing golf can also be arranged - as can a number of other enjoyable outdoor activities.
Watch the Wildlife
The scenic routes that travellers follow on a barge holiday in France are more than just a backdrop: they are part of the surrounding ecosystem, and as such are a real delight for nature lovers. Rivers and canals are important habitats for some of France's most beautiful birds, as well as a range of other wildlife that thrives in or around water. Those travelling with children can encourage their little ones to see how many different animals they can spot on the journey.
Paint a Picture
While digital cameras offer an easy way to make sure that you have plenty of mementos from your barge holiday in France, a drawing or painting can be even more special, and artistic travellers will be treated to a cornucopia of fantastic scenes to paint. A peaceful afternoon spent by the water, or in one of the historic towns along the route, with easel and brush is sure to prove a memorable experience, and the resulting work makes the perfect souvenir from the trip.
Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways. We can provide you with a luxury, all-inclusive barge holiday in France. Cruises are also offered in Holland, Italy and the UK.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7749450

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