Every year, many people book a barge cruise in France to explore one of the many beautiful regions of the country. One of the most popular places to visit is the Loire Valley, where you will find not only stunning countryside but also a host of interesting historic attractions. Here is a guide to what you need to know when you visit the region.

The Spectacular Loire Valley

Beautiful, spectacular, awe-inspiring – these are just a few of the superlatives that could easily describe the Loire Valley. Known as the 'Valley of the Kings', for its numerous chateaux, it is an area of legend and beauty with a certain timeless quality. The weather is excellent during the summer months, so you are likely to enjoy plenty of long days of sunshine if you travel at the right time of year.

The River Cher is the main tributary of the region, and it is this that you will travel down when you book a barge cruise in France in the area. This river has been used for transportation for more than 2,000 years, but now it simply provides a perfect way to travel through the region at your own pace and enjoy the passing scenery.

Like many areas of the country, the Loire Valley is famous for its wines. Wine connoisseurs will have a wonderful time sampling the local specialities either around the dinner table or at private wine tastings – to say nothing of all the delicious cheeses to go with them!

Highlights of the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley has numerous highlights that you shouldn't miss during your time exploring the region on your barge cruise in France. One of the best is Château de Fontainebleau, a beautifully kept site where you will be able to wander around at your own pace and take in the vast halls filled with beautiful furniture and drapery. Other chateaux you may want to see include Château de Chenonceau, an incredibly picturesque 16th century chateaux built for Henri II. Here you can walk around the stunning gardens and enjoy the period furniture and artworks inside. You may also want to see the Château de Villandry, which boasts a selection of beautiful Renaissance gardens.

Pont-Canal is another highlight of the region, which you will find in the beautiful town of Briare. This impressive aqueduct was designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel, at the end of the 19th century, and consists of a canal going right over the Loire River. While here, you should also take the opportunity to visit Château de Sully-sur-Loire, an impressive fortress.

The Beauty of a Barge Holiday

Seeing all of the highlights is made even more enjoyable when you travel by barge. This mode of transport (often called a floating hotel) allows you to go slowly and take it all in without rushing. You can get off the boat periodically and walk or cycle along the river if you wish, meeting up with the vessel at the next stop. If you travel on a luxury vessel, you'll have a top class chef to cook up delightful meals made from the freshest local ingredients.

Sit Back, Relax and Enjoy the Experience

There are few more enjoyable ways to explore France than on a luxury cruise along one (or more) of its many waterways. If you are tempted by the thought of booking a barge cruise in France, the Loire Valley is certainly one of the top destinations to discover the region in the most enjoyable way possible.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways. We can provide you with a luxury, all-inclusive barge cruise in France to enjoy the sights of the country's most picturesque waterways.