Barge holidays from Agen
and Valence-sur-Baise bases
 This
region boasts 300km of navigable waterways, covering five
very varied rivers and canals, all rich in history. As well
as contrasting landscapes and a wealth of monuments, the region's
reputation for fine food and wine adds to the delights of
a cruise here.
From our base at Agen
on the Canal du Midi there is the great 549 metre long aqueduct
with its 23 arches. At Moissac don't miss
the 11th century abbey, a treasure of medieval art, then why
not turn into the beautiful River Tarn to cruise towards Montauban.
Cruising the River Baise, you wind your
way through 65km of lush and intimate countryside. Discover
fortified towns, gentle hills and flowery meadows, and do
some angling along the way.
 Towns
you visit include Vianne, Lavardac
and Nérac, seat of the Albret family.
Looking out from the Chateau of Henri IV, the quayside with
its old workshops converted into restaurants makes a marvellous
view.
From the quays of Condom the precious casks
of Armagnac were shipped down to Bordeaux . See the Abbey
of Flaran, a pearl of Cistercian art, before reaching
the end of your cruise at Valence-sur-Baise.
 North
from Agen the
Lower River Lot takes you 80km from Aiguillon
to Villeneuve-sur-Lot and the centre of the
medieval bastide country, as well as the plum orchards which
produce the famous "Pruneaux". Spectacular scenery
combines with medieval villages like Clairac
and Castelmoron, with superb half-timbered
houses. Casseneuil is a miniature Venice
, and you shouldn't miss its church with splendid wall paintings.
Villeneuve-sur-Lot and Penne-d'Agenais
are good examples of the region's history and traditions.
Please note that to access the River Lot it is necessary
to cross the River Garonne. This requires the services of
a pilot at a cost of around €17.
For more on Negra
base routes see Canal du
Midi Barge Holidays guide
See also Area
Guide to Aquitaine or Return
to South West France Map |
