We're planning to rent a boat for a week to cruise one of the French rivers or canals next May, and we're looking for recommendations on the best waterway to visit. Wanting to avoid cool spring weather, we're looking at rivers in the southern half of France. Our options are to cruise the Lot River Valley, Charente River, or Canal du Midi. Anybody have a favorite?
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
In order: Lot, Charente, almost all others, Midi.
I'd check the temp history very closely. The absolute best in the country is the one that ends/starts in Dinard. It also as a one-way option and Locaboat will move your car.
Posted by
OP
Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA
606 posts
Thanks so much, Ed! After a little research, the Lot seemed obvious to me, but several in our group think Canal Du Midi must be the one to take because there are a dozen different tours for that one and only 1 for Lot (we're looking at LeBoat.com). But Lot is only 75 km of navigable water, so couldn't really have all that many places to go.
I'll definitely check out the Dinard cruise when I go back in warmer weather. Thanks again, Patrick.
Posted by
Centennial, CO, US
2126 posts
We have only cruised once in southern France. Started & ended in Agen on the Garonne Canal, with most of our week spent on the river Baise. Loved the river & its little villages. Very little boat traffic -- peaceful & beautiful. If this could be an option for you, it's a good one.