Welcome Aboard French Hotel Barge Nymphea
The 6-passenger French hotel barge Nymphea is of classic Dutch design with little draft that makes her the ideal vessel for navigating the beautiful sandy reaches of the River Cher in the Loire Valley. Very few vessels are able to cruise this magical waterway.
French Hotel Barge Nymphea cruises the Loire Valley in France
Her traditional ship interior features a warm classic decor of rich varnished hardwoods, stained glass, and shining brass. The lovely furnished salon and dining area has a warm and welcoming country house atmosphere, plus there is an upper salon area with additional comfortable seating.
Nymphea has three comfortable, cozy cabins — two with twin beds and one with twins or converted into a double bed — all with air conditioning and ensuite, private bathrooms.
Sitting outside on the sundeck is the perfect vantage point from which to admire the next picturesque waterside village, elegant château, or stunning stretch of scenery as it slowly comes into view. You will even get to cruise through the arches of probably the most-photographed château in the Loire Valley, Château de Chenonceau. A rare privilege afforded to very few boats.
Six bikes for enjoyable rides along the towpath and trails are always available for you. Nymphea's crew of Captain and Chef/Housekeeper are very knowledgeable about the history in this beautiful area and are excellent hosts for your luxury Loire cruise.
Discover the Loire Valley, France
We are delighted to offer Nymphea, currently the only hotel barge navigating the heart of the Loire Valley. The Valley of the Kings is as rich in history and legend as it is in beauty — little has changed over the centuries. The River Loire and its main tributary the River Cher have transported passengers and cargo for more than 2000 years.
There is much to discover in the Loire Valley, from the fabulous châteaux to the centuries-old villages dotted along the river. Wind your way through the narrow streets possibly discovering hidden shops with hand-painted pottery or stumble across an open market. Meet a winemaker or a cheese maker and learn why his goat cheese is the most famous in France.
The proximity of such a wealth of gorgeous Renaissance architecture makes a cruise along this waterway a unique travel experience.
Cruise highlights:
- Cruise under the famed Château de Chenonceau
- Visit a Troglodyte cave dwelling and see the silkworm nursery
- Excursion to the Château d'Amboise and Château du Clos Lucé
- Private wine tasting at Bruno Curassier's Domaine de la Grange
- Visit to Château de Villandry and its magnificent gardens
- Tour of Château de Chenonceau and gardens
- Colorful street markets
- Optional hot air ballooning
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