The anticipation for the 2024 Summer Olympics, to be held in the vibrant city of Paris from July 26 to August 11, is reaching fever pitch. With hotels filling up fast, sports fans and tourists are exploring other luxurious accommodation options to bask in the Olympic spirit. Leading the way is European Waterways, a premier provider of luxury hotel barge cruises through France’s scenic countryside.
Seeing a significant uptick in demand due to the estimated influx of 15 million visitors, European Waterways offers an incredible opportunity for guests to combine the thrill of the games with the serenity of a scenic river cruise. Their most popular hotel barges are conveniently located just a few hours away from the city, ensuring guests can take in the Olympics and enjoy a tranquil cruise as part of their Parisian adventure.
Secure Your Spot: Demand Surges for European Waterways’ Barges
According to Derek Banks, European Waterways’ Managing Director, there’s still availability for both cabins and charters surrounding the Olympics, but he advises travelers to secure their bookings quickly to avoid disappointment. A key part of their appeal is the all-inclusive offerings, which include free pick-up from Paris via a private chauffeured minibus.
Three hotel barges – Renaissance, L’Art de Vivre, and La Belle Epoque – are witnessing a particularly strong surge in inquiries. Not surprising, given their convenient proximity to Paris, and the luxurious experiences they offer.
Discover France with European Waterways: A Winning Combination
Among these luxury hotel barges, the eight-passenger Renaissance has seen a surge in interest. Cruising along France’s oldest canal, the Canal de Briare, in Western Burgundy, Renaissance takes guests past historical attractions, including the seven-lock flight of Rogny-les-sept-Ecluses and Gustave Eiffel’s unique aqueduct at Briare.
Onboard, guests are treated to a private tour of the Château de La Bussière, including a cooking demonstration, and a visit to the Sancerre winery of La Perriere for a private wine tasting. History and art lovers will also appreciate the private lunch at the studio home of 19th-century artist Rosa Bonheur.
Dive into History with L’Art de Vivre and La Belle Epoque
The eight-passenger L’Art de Vivre and the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque also promise an unforgettable journey. The former, a survivor of World War One, offers an immersive cruise through France’s historic region of Burgundy, with excursions to the wine village of Chablis, a private tasting at Domaine Laroche, and a visit to the quarry of Aubigny.
La Belle Epoque, originally a log carrier, now offers a luxury experience featuring a wood-paneled saloon, hand-built seating, and a spacious sundeck with a spa pool. It treats guests to the best of Northern Burgundy with excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Abbaye de Fontenay and the Château de Commarin, among others.
Themed Charters for Every Passion
Each of these luxury hotel barges also offers themed charters, including biking, family, golf, and wine appreciation cruises. With the Summer Olympics looming, there’s never been a better time to explore the scenic beauty of France aboard European Waterways’ luxury hotel barges.
