European Waterways is inviting guests to celebrate “500 years of
Renaissance Heritage” in France in 2019 with hotel barge cruises in the
Loire Valley, a region that was at the epicenter of “one of the greatest
artistic movements of European History.” Exclusive departures on the
company’s six-passenger Nymphea hotel barge, which cruises
through the Loire Valley on the Cher River, feature numerous excursions
that will immerse guests in the region’s many exhibitions, festivals and
gastronomic events that will observe the occasion. Rates for the
six-night cruises start at $4,650 per person, based on double occupancy,
and include accommodation, gourmet cuisine, open bar, fine wines, daily
excursions, and guided tours.
The French Renaissance
contributed to a revolution in world art, literature, architecture and
science. France’s Loire Valley is marking the 500th
anniversary of three major milestones that shaped the Renaissance: the
death of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here, the start of
construction of the Château de Chambord – the ultimate embodiment of
Renaissance architecture – and the birth of Catherine de’ Medici in
Florence, Queen of France by marriage to King Henry II, who reigned at
the height of France’s influence.
Courting History
Reminiscent of a classic yacht, European Waterways’ Nymphea
takes guests on an immersive journey that reveals the history, art,
architecture, wine, and cuisine of the Loire Valley, which is often
called the “Valley of the Kings of France.” The French court, held in
towns along its namesake river, left behind some of the most magnificent
royal residences in the world. Guests will visit the Château de
Villandry, the last of the great chateaux built during the Renaissance,
as well as cruise beneath the famous arches of the Château de
Chenonceau, before enjoying a guided tour of its many lavish rooms and
original artwork.
Luxury Hotel Barge Renaissance also
cruises in a more easterly part of the Loire Region, visiting several
unique attractions, such as Gien, the home of Faience Pottery, and the
world-famous UNESCO Heritage Site of the Château de Fontainebleau. Rates
for the six-night cruises start at $6,890 per person, based on double
occupancy, and include accommodation, gourmet cuisine, open bar, fine
wines, daily excursions and guided tours.
For more information, call 1-877-879-8808 or visit europeanwaterways.com
