French Waterways Regions : The North-East
Lorraine – Alsace – Ardennes

Tucked away in the north-east corner of France, the waterways in these regions enjoy a backdrop of the Vosges Mountains. A network of rivers including the River Meuse with its breathtaking cliffs and the broad River Moselle are complemented by scenic canals. The Canal Marne au Rhin with its castles and windmills offers a pleasant cruise between historic Nancy and Hockfelden, famous for its gastronomy and beer. This area retains its German influences, clearly evidenced in the architecture and hearty regional cuisine. Delicious meals are sure to include tasty Ardennes hams, German sauerkraut and local sugar cakes. ↓ click on images to open gallery Visit Strasbourg on the River Ill with its half-timbered houses in “Petite France” which contrast sharply with the ultramodern building of the European Parliament. Continue south on the scenic Canal du Rhone au Rhin past riverside inns and the Hardt Forest to the historic cities of Colmar and Mulhouse. The Canal des Vosges and further north, the Canal des Ardennes and the Canal de la Meuse, offer relaxing barge holidays through this natural area which is home to many bird species, deer and wild boar. Stops may include visits to rose gardens, fishing lakes and small towns, with the chance to sit in the sun with a café-crème. A boating holiday is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors, along with the sights, sounds and smells of the area. Cruise past pine forests, fields of hops and orchards of cherry and plum trees, heavy with blossom in spring and laden with fruits in late summer. Unique experiences such as the boat lift at Arzviller, a feat of engineering, will add to your interest and memories.

Other French Waterway Regions

Detailed Cruising Guides : —C Marne-Rhine —C Rhone-Rhine