European Waterways is calling guests to celebrate ?500 years of Renaissance Heritage? in France by booking a holiday on one of its selected hotel barge cruises in the Loire Valley.
These departures - between June and September - on the six-passenger Nymphea hotel barge, feature excursions that will immerse guests in the region?s many exhibitions, festivals and gastronomic events that will mark the historic occasion as they cruise through the Loire Valley on the Cher River.
Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways, said: ?This year the 500th anniversary celebrations of the French Renaissance offer a unique opportunity to become immersed in the history of the region. The Cher River is close to some of the more significant Renaissance sites. Nymphea is one of the few vessels that can navigate it because of its shallow draft. The smaller groups of only six which we host on board also allow us to be more flexible with our itinerary to participate in the celebrations and visit these attractions.?
The French Renaissance contributed to a revolution in world art, literature, architecture and science. France?s Loire Valley is marking the 500th anniversary of three major milestones that shaped the Renaissance: the death of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here, the start of construction of the Ch?teau de Chambord ? the ultimate embodiment of Renaissance architecture ? and the birth of Catherine de? Medici in Florence, Queen of France by marriage to King Henry II, who reigned at the height of France?s influence.
?The tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, the original ?Renaissance Man,? is on display in the gardens of the Ch?teau d?Amboise, overlooking the Loire River,? said Banks. ?Nymphea guests visit this extraordinary Ch?teau and its gardens, as well as the Ch?teau du Clos Luc?, where he lived until his death. They also tour other royal residences, enjoy wine tasting excursions, and visit local markets and other attractions.?
The hotel barge takes guests on an immersive journey that reveals the history, art, architecture, wine, and cuisine of the Loire Valley, which is often called the ?Valley of the Kings of France.? The French court, held in towns along its namesake river, left behind some of the most magnificent royal residences in the world. Guests will visit the Ch?teau de Villandry, the last of the great chateaux built during the Renaissance, as well as cruise beneath the famous arches of the Ch?teau de Chenonceau, before enjoying a guided tour of its many lavish rooms and original artwork. Rates for the six-night cruises start at ?3,190 per person, based on double occupancy; and ?18,000 for full barge charters of six people.
Visit www.europeanwaterways.com to find out more.
