Barging

Le Premier

From ugly duckling to beautiful swan, this cargo boat was transformed into a luxury hotel barge in 2004. Of all the barges on the Burgundy canals, this is the most state-of-the art vessel, offering guests an ever-changing vista along the way with fine food and wine, living up to its name, Le Premier.

For a group of friends or a family reunion, chartering a barge seems like the perfect holiday solution. All the luxuries are provided, there are interesting trips each day to areas new, and for exercise you can stretch your legs walking or cycling along the tow paths. Fine wining and dining of course is included, in this area famed for its gastronomy.

Kathy Williams and Richard Shields are old hands at entertaining on board. They hosted yacht charters in the Eastern Mediterranean for a number of years before deciding that Burgundy would be their next adventure. ‘This boat was originally built in Chalon-sur-Saône,’ says Kathy, ‘we decided that a complete conversion was the only way to ensure high standards in both the accommodation and the engineering aspects of the boat.’ The result is three air conditioned double cabins for guests with en suite facilities, spacious public areas and a heated spa pool. Natural wood, light colours and streamlined décor create an airy uncluttered feel.

While Richard pilots the barge, Kathy prepares the fine meals. No galley here but a fully fitted stainless steel kitchen with all mod cons. There are also two crew members on board, a hostess and a matelot, to ensure the smooth running of the trip.

There are two routes to choose from. On the Canal de Bourgogne, one runs along the picturesque Ouche valley past Châteauneuf to Dijon. The other passes through the Saône valley and the Canal du Centre through the wine country of the Côte d’Or taking in the famous names of Chagny, Mercurey and Santenay.

The pace of life along the canals and through the locks is slow and peaceful. You can experience rural France at its best from the comfort of your lounger and forget for a week that the world outside exists.

For more details www.hotelbargevacations.com.