Storybook Cruising With European Waterways

In its first Summer season of operation, European Waterways' new 12 passenger, 128ft Dutch hotel barge Panache will embark from June to October on 6-night, all-inclusive voyages along the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin, between Strasbourg and Mittersheim in beautiful Alsace-Lorraine.

Alsace-Lorraine is a unique corner of Eastern France - a land of storybook castles and rolling vineyards as well as Baroque, Gothic and Romanesque architecture. For centuries, the great empires of Europe confronted one another at this strategic and military crossroads. The area’s blend of French and German influences are strongly evident in its customs, cuisine, wines, architecture and language.

Exploring this area of the world is a truly magical and varied experience and the voyage can begin in the city of Strasbourg – so easily accessible by air from the UK – with its renowned 12^th century, Gothic pink sandstone cathedral. Cruising to its final destination in Mittersheim, highlights of the week will include:

• Visiting picturesque Saverne and the majestic 11th century Chateau du Haut Barr
• A scenic drive through the Vosges Hills along the Route des Grands Crus, with a private tasting of Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir and Riesling wines
• An effortless, mountain-side ascent on the unique Arzviller boat elevator – thus avoiding 17 traditional locks
• Candlelit lunch aboard as the barge passes through the two Arzviller tunnels
• At Wingen-sur-Moder, visiting the outstanding René Lalique museum collection of jewellery and glassware - also the battleground where American infantry confronted some of Germany’s most seasoned veterans
• A final-day visit to Nancy, the ancient capital of Lorraine, with its Baroque Place Stanislas, one of the grandest in France

Guests can enjoy chauffeur-driven private excursions in an air-conditioned minibus, as well as explore for themselves on one of the 12 bikes on board.

The prices lead in at £2,790 per person in a twin/double junior suite and include: local transfers to and from the barge; a champagne welcome, accommodation in air-conditioned, en-suite cabins, all gourmet meals aboard and ashore, fine wines, an all-day open bar, use of bicycles and spa pool, all excursions and admittance fees and the services of the experienced crew.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury river cruise specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.