What places in France to visit on a houseboat?

Anjou

Anjou is often referred to as the "France of Poets". This region is located between the Loire Valley, Brittany and the Atlantic. You will visit the rivers Mayenne, Sarte and Udon. Among the main attractions are motley castles, chateaus, mills. Cycling enthusiasts will also appreciate the region, with the Eurovelo cycle path nearby. 

In addition, novice houseboat owners should take a closer look at Anjou, because many local channels are not very busy. Owners with children will have somewhere to roam, as there are many theme and entertainment parks along the coast. Anjou Aventure and Wake Paradise parks are perfect for outdoor activities, and flora lovers can stroll along Terra Botanica. Of course, the traditional cold cuts rillettes du Mans are not to be missed!

Department Lot

Sheer high cliffs, pleasant paths in the shade of trees and clear waters of the Lot River - all this can be found in the French department of the same name. And where without the Valentre Bridge, which is marked by UNESCO in the World Heritage List.

Especially this region will appeal to lovers of haute cuisine. Here you should definitely try foie gras with truffles and foie gras confit. And for dessert you will be served a traditional walnut cake. 

It is probably worth warning that there are as many as 17 locks on the river. All of them have not been upgraded and will have to be managed manually.

Charente

The rivers of France are among the most beautiful in Europe. The Shalanta River stands out even against the background of other “beauties”: the water here is crystal clear, and the banks are rich in beautiful crowns of centuries-old trees, framed by golden fields of sunflowers.

In addition to sunflowers, the region is known for its vineyards, wineries and cognac factories. But before you visit them, do not forget that safety is paramount!

On the Charente River, swimming is allowed almost everywhere. The purity of the water and protected beaches will be a weighty argument in favor of this particular region. After an eventful day at the winery and swimming on the beach, don't forget to pamper your stomach!

Fish in the region has been elevated to the rank of practically a national dish. Local shops and restaurants offer a huge selection of fish and other seafood for every taste and color. Carps, trout, eels, pikes, perches, mussels and oysters coexist with traditional French delicacies - cheeses, meat and snails.

Brittany

It is probably one of the most famous regions of France. There are many channels for boating. After an eventful day on the water, you can disembark and explore cities that literally breathe history. The canal that runs from Nantes to Brest is dotted with historical sights and picturesque towns. The 15-kilometer section of the Erdre River is completely “built up” with castles - as many as 17 pieces for 15 kilometers!

You can not miss the botanical garden in La Gasilli. This garden is owned by the cosmetics company Yves Rocher. There are more than 1000 plant species. Traditional crafts are represented by a huge number of craftsmen who can be found throughout Brittany - there is even an open-air festival of traditional crafts.

If you have a sweet tooth, then it is not recommended to pass by local pancakes and delicious apple cider.

Aquitaine

Unlike the Lot department, there are automatic gates that will make your trip easier. In addition to the gateways, amazing natural landscapes are attached.

For lovers of history, Aquitaine will be a real find. The city of Vianne of the 12th century, the Flaran monastery, the cathedrals of Condom and Moissac… The list of sights can be very long.

Fans of gastronomic tourism will also have a place to turn around - marmalade from strawberries and ... tomatoes, prunes of various varieties, duck foie gras from the Lafitte farm, watermelons from Nérac. And this is only part of the interesting things that you have to discover on board your houseboat!

And finally, the giant Agen Bridge, 539 meters long. This giant deserves attention no less than foie gras.

Camargue

If you are accustomed to the Mediterranean flavor and do not risk immersing yourself in “classical” France, then the Camargue is your choice. This region has a climate similar to the Mediterranean. Nature lovers will be able to visit one of the largest nature reserves in Europe. Here you will find the most beautiful flamingos, horses and bulls. You can safely watch them in the center of Scamander.

Of the advantages of other reserves - an extremely small number of locks. Newbies will love it! The best souvenir from the Camargue (except for the emotions of travel) is salt. One of the most famous salt rocks is from here. Pay attention to this moment. 

Canal du Midi

Another legendary French channel. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canal is famous for connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, you can enjoy the view of vineyards, cozy villages and a delicious dinner at a restaurant on the shore.

Love the warm rays of the sun? Then this region is for you. Throughout most of the season it is sunny and very warm. Among the gastronomic delights are dishes from legumes of all kinds, colors and tastes. It would seem that they are ordinary beans, but the French flavor is especially pronounced in the local dishes.

Fans of castles would like to be advised to visit the medieval castle of Carcassonne. This is a giant fortress behind a tall defensive wall. There are as many as 53 towers here, so take a good rest before visiting this hulk.

Loire Valley and Nivernais

This region is popular among avid tourists and lovers of French architecture. I especially want to highlight the Briare aqueduct - it was designed by Gustave Eiffel. Yes, yes, the same architect who gave us the Eiffel Tower. Yes, and from Paris to the Loire is only 2.5-3 hours by car.

In the valley you will find a great variety of museums dedicated to the most diverse crafts. Among them: the Museum of Ceramics in Nevers, the Museum of Enamels and Mosaics in Briare, the city of La Charité-sur-Loire. This city is also called the City of Books. Many artists, photographers, illustrators and calligraphers work here.

Well, what French region without a vineyard? In the valley there is the legendary Sancerre vineyard. And of course, there is a winery where you can order a tasting with a guided tour or buy a bottle of wine to go…

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21.01.2023