L'Art de Vivre barge

Hotel Barge L’Art de Vivre L’Art de Vivre is the oldest hotel barge in our fleet and was built in England during World War One as a supply vessel to the Allied troops battling in the Somme. Today her life is a little less dramatic as she cruises one of France’s longest-established canals, the Canal du Nivernais in Burgundy. She is very much a traditional barge in style, with original wood and brass features that emphasise her heritage and create a warm and inviting interior atmosphere. The comfortable, compact cabins all have modern en-suite facilities and the delightful saloon combines contemporary leather with more traditional furnishings. Outside, there is a sun deck to relax on with a glass of wine as you glide through the pretty Burgundy countryside and a spa pool to soak in. You can explore the ever-present towpath on foot or on one of the barge’s bicycles, before re-joining the L’Art de Vivre at one of the locks up ahead. This region of Burgundy with its charming villages and centuries-old history simply oozes charm and your cruise aboard L’Art de Vivre is a journey back in time along a magical waterway. Cruise Highlights Explore enchanting Auxerre and its magnificent cathedral Private wine tasting of Chablis and Petit Chablis at the prestigious Domaine Laroche, followed by a delicious gourmet lunch in the Domaine’s dining hall Excursion to the quarry of Aubigny, followed by a crémant wine tasting in the cellars of Bailly Lapierre Visit the picturesque town of Vézelay and its hilltop basilica Visit the elegant 12th Century Château de Bazoches Optional hot air ballooning Excellent towpath for walking and cycling “Biking Plus” option available