European Waterways, the premier luxury hotel barge cruising company renowned for curating immersive journeys that unveil the essence of Europe's captivating regions, has announced a collection of new and enhanced excursions. These private, tailor-made adventures are designed to elevate guest experiences, offering deeper connections to each locale's rich history, vibrant local culture, and exquisite food and wine.
Guests can step into a world of gastronomic indulgence aboard the Anjodi with a unique culinary experience at Le Mas d’Antonin truffle farm. Embarking on a journey of discovery, hunting for the black truffle, known as “black gold”, with the earnest assistance and keen nose of Soïka (the expert truffle dog). This adventure is followed with a sensory feast as guests sample the truffles they have found with exquisite olive oils from the estate’s olive grove, followed by a gourmet lunch that’s perfectly paired with local wines, and set against the stunning backdrop of this prestigious estate.
Aboard the ultra-deluxe Enchanté, guests now have an enhanced visit to the family-owned Château de Paraza. Located on the banks of the picturesque Canal du Midi, the Château de Paraza was built on land once used to cultivate vines in Roman times. The château at the heart of the vineyard dates to 1612, and in 1620, it belonged to Guillaume Riquet, the father of the famous engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet, who designed the Canal du Midi. Guests will have a private tour and tasting of its Minervois fine wines, followed by a gourmet lunch in the château's elegant salon, accompanied by one of the winery’s sommeliers who will explain the château's rich history, dating back to the 17th century. This enhanced visit promises a truly immersive and unforgettable wine adventure.
The luxury hotel barge Panache, also part of the European Waterways fleet, is fitted out in traditional yacht style, the perfect ambience to cruise the Champagne region. The itinerary typically includes decadent brie cheese tastings, a tour of the Cathedral at Reims, Epernay, and, of course, tastings at renowned boutique champagne houses. This summer, the luxury champagne house La Maison Boizel has been added to her tailor-made itinerary. Situated on the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne, this premier champagne house dates back to 1834 and has been in the Boizel family for six generations. Guests will explore the underground cellars, which include the ‘family treasure’ featuring bottles dating back to 1834, and some of the greatest vintages of the 19th and 20th centuries. The visit is celebrated with a private tasting of two exclusive Boizel champagnes. On the return, there’s an optional visit to the Musée du Champagne, which is dedicated to the history and art of champagne making.
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