French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque — A Bit Of History
A Working Girl at Heart
La Belle Epoque, a spits barge originally named Savornin Lohmann, was built in 1930 in the Netherlands in order to transport timber. Following the outbreak of the Second World War, the barge was relocated to France along with her owners, the Kruijt family. For many decades she assisted in the transportation of logs from the forests of Morvan to the warehouses of Paris on the Canal du Nivernais.
The Great Makeover
After more than 70 years of hard work, Savornin Lohmann retired from lumber transportation in 1993. Unlike many working vessels that were dismantled for scrap, this historic barge was purchased by European Waterways and joined the only other barge in their fleet at the time: Anjodi.
A complete renovation followed, transforming this humble spits barge into La Belle Epoque, the glorious floating hotel that guests still enjoy today. With her six luxurious cabins each with marble ensuite bathrooms, the wood-paneled salon/dining area, and a sun deck complete with hot tub, La Belle Epoque is the epitome of barging elegance and sophistication.
Barging in Burgundy
There are many reasons to select La Belle Epoque as your vessel of choice on your next barging cruise. She plies the peaceful Canal de Bourgogne in Northern Burgundy, boasting an itinerary that includes Chablis wine tasting, an excursion to the Abbaye de Fontenay and an optional (and unforgettable) hot air balloon flight. Champagne Wednesdays are a new and popular addition to her itinerary, and keen cyclists can take advantage of their “Biking Plus” option and admire her from the towpath.
A Quick Video Tour of La Belle Epoque
The French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque is available for barging cruises on the Canal de Bourgogne in Burgundy, France. She accommodates up to 12 passengers in 6 guest cabins, each with ensuite, private bathrooms. There is a crew of six to pamper you during your barging vacation.
Burgundy Itinerary
La Belle Epoque cruises between Venarey-les-Laumes and Tanlay on the Canal de Bourgogne in Burgundy, France
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La Belle Epoque
- Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Venarey-les-Laumes and Tanlay
- Up to 12 guests
- Private charters and Cabin cruises
- Itineraries: Standard classic, Family, Golfing, Walking, Wine tasting
- See more: Online Brochure
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLE EPOQUE
View La Belle Epoque' online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
View La Belle Epoque' online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
