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In July I - Marie of The Barge Company—was cordially invited aboard the genteel Nymphea, cruising in
the heart of the central Loire Valley; famous for its fairy-tale chateaux (castles) and formidable history.
Taking just six honoured guests, she is a real ’gem’ of the French waterways, and is owned and Captained
by Leigh Wootton (see above, hosting Champagne Reception), who always ensures that guests are well
cared for and takes great pride in his truly heavenly barge. What a treat was in store!
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Being on board for two nights/three days I was able to savour the true feel of the Nymphea and all its traditional
qualities. She is a slightly smaller barge than some of the others we represent, and so the atmosphere
on board is very cosy and unpretentious. She has a classic, hardwood interior, both in the saloon
and cabins, which has been hand finished and the attention to detail really shows. See the lower lounge
and dining area below.
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In addition to this, there is a higher lounge area where you may put your feet up if you wish, with large table
for writing or placing drinks, and surrounded by huge picture windows from which you can see the whole panorama
(see below and below right). Many guests prefer, of course, to sit outside on the teak deck chairs and
watch the world float by at their leisure. The barge has many options and they are yours to choose from...
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The food we were served on board whilst cruising was lovingly prepared by young, talented chef Cecile, and
was so perfectly French! Fine wines were also introduced to us at both lunch and dinner by our experienced
and knowledgable ’connoisseur’ Captain Leigh. Some are almost ‘secrets’ of the region and it felt a real privilege
to share them!
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Evening meals comprised of a starter, main course and dessert, followed by coffee and chocolates and
then a ’digestif’ if liked.
Lunches were healthy but very satisfying, such as the below—home made quiche lorraine with a variety of
delicious salads, fine wine to accompany plus the heavenly French bread and cheeses to follow...
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There are many treats in store for you during a cruise on the Nymphea. Cruising on the idyllic River Cher
you’ll enjoy many special excursions, not least of which is to the Chateau de Villandry with its sumptuous
interior and world-renowned Renaissance Gardens (see above right and below).
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You will be guided by captain Leigh
who knows all the history and will
not hesitate to share it with you—if
you wish to hear it of course!
The chateau is a triumph of renovation
by one very special family, and
the numerous family photos and
plans of the ‘before’ and ‘after’ of
the chateau that are to be found all
over the place lend a family, intimate
feel to this grand chateau. It’s
a really special place.
The interior is fully furnished in most
rooms and one can only imagine the
splendid dinner parties that used to
fill the rooms with glamour and
warmth (see dining room below
left).
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Once back to the barge, Leigh will
help with your ‘education’ on the region,
by sharing his maps and charts
(see right) and explaining a little
more of the lay of the land before
the evening meal. What a wonderful
way to spend a day...This is just one
example of the many fascinating excursions
that are to be enjoyed during
the Nymphea’s cruise week.
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Leigh and Cecile provide all that clients could wish for on this relaxing and decadent cruise week. Other highlights
of the itinerary include the Chateau of Valencay—another splendid visit to be savoured, plus the Clos
Luce—famous for its Leonard de Vinci connection, and the local ancient ‘troglodyte dwellings’ - literally the
caves in the hillsides where people lived in olden times (and in many cases they still do—you will see!)
If you’re considering a break away, why not give the Nymphea a try? For the full information on her including
cruise rates, please click here.
If you have questions about the barge, call me (Marie) on the number below, or e-mail me directly by clicking
here.
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