Itineraries can be tailored to your interests

Itinerary

Cruising aboard the Saraphina between Portiragnes-Plage and Homps, close to Carcassonne promises a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your enjoyment, with the day split between exploring the surrounding area and leisurely cruising.

While cruising, you have the freedom to unwind as you wish. Whether you prefer to watch the picturesque landscape from the deck, relax in the lounge with its views of the passing canal and its inhabitants, or take a walk, jog, or cycle along the tow path with the traditional Dutch bicycles provided – the choice is yours.

For those who wish to have a unique experience, you can even try your hand at steering the barge from the covered wheelhouse, which offers panoramic windows and comfortable seating.

Your days begin with a delicious breakfast, and then your personal tour guide will pick you up to explore the local area and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The itineraries are flexible and can be tailored to accommodate specific sites of interest, such as wineries and museums.

There are various captivating places to visit, including the historic streets of Pezenas and the Cistercian Abbey of Fontroide, the towns of Beziers and Narbonne, the medieval Cathar village of Minerve, and, of course, the majestic medieval city of Carcassonne.

The Saraphina is a versatile choice, catering to different types of travellers. Whether you’re a romantic honeymoon couple, a group of four friends, or a family of four, you’ll find the barge to be an ideal and welcoming accommodation.

Children are also warmly welcomed and will be entertained throughout their stay.

Moreover, there are additional activities to add to the fun. For those seeking adventure, the Saraphina can arrange a beach day, horse riding, water and adventure parks, golf and even canoeing experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Overall, the Saraphina offers a unique and unforgettable journey, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the region, while also enjoying the comfort and personalised service of the barge and its dedicated crew.

Sunday

Saraphina

We pick you up from your hotel, train station, or local airport and bring you safely aboard Saraphina. After a short cruise through the “mini Camargue” and Champagne welcome, your first dinner will be served aboard. A beautiful mooring in the country side close to the village of Portiragnes.

Monday

Pezenas

After breakfast you will be taken to the historic streets of renaissance Pezenas with its arts, crafts and antique shops. After a typical bistro lunch in Beziers we cruise over the aquaduct and up the majestic flight of locks at fonserannes. This evenings mooring a stones through away from Beziers.

Tuesday

Fontfroide

The morning visit brings you to the cistercien abbey of Fontfroide. After lunch at a quaint restaurant, with a stunning view over the “pond of Montady” we cruise along the windiest part of the canal to our mooring in Capestang, a small village with a charming square where you can enjoy an aperitif with a view on the enormous 12th century collegial church.

Wednesday

Narbonne

Our tour guide takes you to Narbonne. known for the arch bishops palace, the gothic cathedral, shopping, and the famous covered food market, where you will choose a selection of sea food or charcuterie to enjoy back onboard. We then cruise to another stunning mooring next to the sleepy village of Le Somail. Take the opportunity to visit the world famous antique book shop and the ateliers. In the evening you can walk to a restaurant in the village to wine and dine.

Thursday

Minerve

Thursday’s visit brings you to the medieval cathar village Minerve and the olive oil factory Oulibo. You will then enjoy your lunch ashore returning to the barge for an afternoon cruise to Roubia. A wine tasting before dinner could be organised if you wish.

Friday

Carcassonne

The medieval city of Carcassonne is a highlight of the week. After a guided tour around europe’s largest medieval fortified town and lunch there we set off for the final cruise to the village of Homps and farewell dinner aboard.

Saturday

Home

After breakfast you will be transferred to train station, hotel or local airport for your onward journey.

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