Flower power

It's the Journey Not the Destination

But, well, it's also the destination.

Especially when that destination is the French countryside. We’ve always loved Belmond’s barges, so imagine our excitement when they announced two new vessels in 2017! Allow us to introduce Pivoine and Lilas, two new luxury boats joining the fleet of luxury barges, Belmond Afloat in France. The poetically named Belmond Lilas (Lilac) and Belmond Pivoine (Peony) cruise along the picturesque canals and rivers throughout Alsace and Champagne. Six-night itineraries feature private visits to family-owned vineyards and breweries and spectacular Châteaux. Traveling via barge offers an escape from the everyday, a chance to slow down and savor the moment, gently gliding through the buccolic countryside.

Belmond Pivoine cruises between Meaux and Châlons-en-Champagne along the River Marne and Canal Lateral de Marne, passing undulating hills filled with vines and pretty canal-side villages. Steeped in rich history, Champagne is not only famous for its sparkling namesake but is home to rich and cultural locations that played an important part in historical events in the early 20th century. Highlights include a visit to the historical city of Reims and Château Vaux-Le-Vicomte, famous for its beautifully manicured gardens and grounds.

Cruising the Canal de la Marne au Rhin through the heart of the Alsace region, Belmond Lilas passes forests abundant with pine trees and small ruin castles on isolated hilltops between Arzviller and Strasbourg. Along the canal, guests can visit small villages and towns including Lutzelbourg and Saverne before exploring Strasbourg, the culinary capital of the Alsace region and highlight of the cruise.

To reinforce the extraordinary experience of connecting with nature, the new barges are inspired by Biophilia, a design approach that brings the outside world into the interior space. Each barge is individually designed to reflect the tones of the flowers and landscapes they represent.

The two new barges will bring the fleet to a total of seven. Belmond Afloat in France also offers tailor-made itineraries around Burgundy, Cote D’Or, France Comte, Saone, Provence, Valle du Rhone and Canal du Midi. The barges can accommodate between four and 12 passengers each with an experienced crew, en-suite cabins, living space and dining room. Other activities available are cycling along the canal paths, market tours and cooking classes with the private chef.

And did we mention the heated pools?! We recommend barging for a birthday, an anniversary celebration, a couples’ getaway, and for no reason at all.

WE’D ALSO LIKE TO RAISE A TOAST TO THIS SUPER SPECIAL TAILORMADE CRUISE

Belmond Amaryllis LA SEMAINE DES GRANDS CRUS

This is an extraordinary opportunity to sample wines from the 33 Grands Crus domaines of Burgundy. It includes extensive tastings of Burgundy’s best wines, special classes, and tours of world famous cellars. You’ve got to call us to discuss. Salute!

An Exclusive Offer from Poe Travel and Belmond

Experience the wonders of France-Burgundy, Alsace, and Champagne-like never before aboard a luxury barge.

Usually reserved for charter only, take advantage of this exclusive offer and book single cabins at a special rate of €6,900 per person aboard Belmond Amaryllis, Belmond Lilas, and Belmond Pivoine.

Keep in mind that Lilas and Pivoine are BRAND NEW. The 2018 season will be their first in the water.

 

Offer valid on the following departures:

Belmond Amaryllis: 29 July & 19 August 2018

Belmond Lilas: 15 July & 26 August 2018

Belmond Pivoine: 12 August 2018

 

Must book by March 15, 2018

If none of these dates works for you, the barges listed (and the other barges in the Belmond fleet) are still open for private charter several weeks out of the 2018 season. If you think you'd be interested in chartering a Belmond barge, let your Poe Travel agent know. We would be happy to find the best barge to suit your group and look into availability for this year.

Contact your Poe Travel agent by phone at (501) 376-4171 or via email. We look forward to hearing from you!