French Waterways Regions : The South-West
Aquitaine – Gascony – Charente

This southwest corner of France is a network of scenic rivers and waterways carrying passengers effortlessly from one attractive place to the next. Discover cities rich in history such as Vianne with its colourful glasswork, the Abbey at Moissac and the chateau at Buzet-sur-Baise. All the culture and architecture is enhanced with the region’s rich gourmet cuisine and fine wines.    ↓ click on images to open gallery

The Garonne Valley has a great deal to offer, from the River Baise and the Canal de Garonne to the amazing Montech boat lift. Magnificent chateaux and Bastide towns rise above golden cornfields, neat rows of vines and productive orchards. The River Garonne eventually becomes tidal as it passes Castets-en-Dorthe and reaches the estuary at Bordeaux as the River Gironde.  The Canal de Montauban branches off from the Canal de Garonne and offers a pleasant interlude of ten shallow locks through attractive countryside towards Montauban. The Upper and Lower Lot rivers meander gently between wide valleys and steep limestone gorges revealing cascading waterfalls, ancient castles and historic towns. Prehistoric cave drawings at Pech-Merle Caves and the hilltop town of St-Cirq Lapopie are just two of the highlights. The Charente is said to be one of France’s most beautiful rivers, with clear waters providing swimming, fishing, kayaking and wildlife-spotting. The Roman amphitheatre at Saintes, the Cathedral at Angoulême, splendid chateaux and distilleries at Cognac all draw visitors to cruise at leisure through this lovely area.

Other French Waterway Regions

Detailed Cruising Guides : —C de Garonne—C de Montauban—R.Baise—R.Lot—R.Garonne—Charente