Welcome to Hotel Barge L’Art de Vivre

The French Hotel Barge l’Art de Vivre offers barge cruises on the Canal du Nivernais in Burgundy, France. She was built in England during World War One as a supply vessel to the Allied troops battling in the Somme.

Later, after her time as a lumber carrier in Scotland, the eight-passenger L’Art de Vivre was skilfully transformed by a team of talented craftsmen into a floating celebration of the Burgundian “good life” for barging in France. Read more about L’Art de Vivre’s history.

Barging in France – French Hotel Barge L’Art de Vivre

Accommodations

L’Art de Vivre is very much a traditional barge in style. Her original wood and brass features emphasize her heritage and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The comfortable, compact cabins all have modern en-suite, private bathroom facilities. They can be configured as twins or doubles as you prefer.

The delightful salon combines contemporary leather with more traditional furnishings. For relaxing there is a long banquette sofa, an armchair and a fully stocked bar. The beautiful dining table made of Iroko African wood, seats all guests at single sittings.

On the shaded sun deck, you can relax with a glass of wine as you glide through the pretty Burgundy countryside or perhaps, soak in the relaxing spa pool. You can explore the towpath on foot or take one of the bicycles to discover nearby villages and rejoin the hotel barge at one of the locks up ahead.

Crew

Your crew of five comprises a Captain, Master Chef, Tour Guide and Host/ess, all with a love of the Nivernais Canal and secure in the knowledge that their vessel represents “L’Art de Vivre” itself. The region simply oozes charm and the cruise is a journey back in time along a magical waterway.

Larger charter groups

L’Art de Vivre is also available for “Tandem Barge Cruises” with the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque for larger groups of up to 20 passengers.

Barge 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 village of Vezelay and its hilltop basilica
• Tour the elegant 12th-century Château de Bazoches
• Excellent towpath for walking and bicycling
• Biking Plus option available
• Optional Hot Air Ballooning
• Enjoy a luxury barge cruise

Learn more about the Canal du Nivernais

• About the Canal du Nivernais
• Towns & Villages Along the Canal du Nivernais
• Best Places to Visit on the Canal du Nivernais

L’ART DE VIVRE > Welcome

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