LuxeGetaways Magazine – Spring 2017 | For more than 50 years now, many travelers in search of a unique travel experience that maintains focus on small groups and cultural immersion have looked to Abercrombie & Kent for a growing number of unforgettable getaways. The idea of a personalized river cruise on a barge with your friends and family is not for everyone, but for those looking for something truly intimate that caters to groups often not exceeding six or eight guests, a barge cruise makes a very attractive way to see the world. Who would have thought that barges and bespoke luxury could work so well together?
This June, Abercrombie & Kent has a very special offering for one fortunate group of twelve – offering an opportunity to experience villages, vineyards and more while navigating through Paris, Champagne and Alsace for two weeks. Admittedly, this is not an inexpensive getaway with friends or family, as it will cost an estimated $13,995, per person. Though having Abercrombie & Kent in control means that these guests will have a grand tour of Paris; a cruise on the Marne River on the deluxe private barge, Panache; wine tastings, gourmet dining and chateau visits in Champagne; and then completed with an overland tour including a luxurious stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles.
More Info: www.abercrombiekent.com
L’Art de Vivre in Burgundy
Cruise along with views of the vineyards, while visiting medieval villages with half-timbered houses and other unique finds along the way. This cruise is recommended for those looking to also coordinate a family getaway, walking tours, golf and wine tastings. Hot air ballooning is a great option at this time of the year, providing the conditions are appropriate.
Starts at $4,490ppdo
Enchanté in the South of France
A gentle cruise along the Canal du Midi between Trèbes and Sallèles-d’Aude that provides guests with amazing views of lush vineyard scenery and charming villages along the way. This tour also provides a number of great land excursions for world-class cuisine, family outings, wine and/or olive oil tastings, walking tours and a round or two of unforgettable golf.
Starts at $5,990ppdo
Renaissance in the Upper Loire
Cruising along the Canal de Briare in the Upper Loire, guests find unique opportunities to tour a renowned family-run vineyard for an intimate wine tasting, or dine at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants. Hot air ballooning is a great option at this time of the year, providing the conditions are appropriate; as well as golf and family excursions being available along the way.
Starts at $6,750ppdo
La Nouvelle Etoile in Holland
Always a favorite getaway, having an opportunity to experience the tulip season in Holland is something that everyone should see at least once in a lifetime. Beyond the flowers providing a blanket of color along the shores, guests are able to enjoy cheese-tastings in Gouda and discover other unique land offerings along the way to get a true sense of the culture.
Starts at $7,475ppdo
Geoffrey Kent was born to be a traveler; as he came into this world while his parents were on safari, and was raised on the family farm in Kenya. With that unmistakable sense of adventure in his blood, Kent became the first individual to motorbike between Kenya and Cape Town at age 16. Since founding Abercrombie & Kent with his parents, Kent’s focus has always been to enable travelers to discover the world in a uniquely authentic and stylish manner. Today, Abercrombie & Kent runs 52 full-time offices worldwide, staffed by more than 2,500 people. Its reputation allows Abercrombie & Kent travelers with private (sometimes exclusive) access to museums, archaeological sites and cultural attractions around the world.
“When it comes to experiencing Europe, a canal barge cruise is a trip back to a simpler time. The view out your cabin window is almost unchanged from the 19th century, with cars nowhere to be seen and many of the locks still operated by hand,” explains Abercrombie & Kent’s Founder, Chairman and CEO Geoffrey Kent. “Chartering a barge is the perfect way to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary with family and friends. You travel at a slower pace, strolling through local markets, sampling the best local wines, and meeting artisanal food producers who respect traditions dating back several centuries.”
“This style of travel particularly appeals to those who appreciate farm-to-table cuisine and fine wines — many of which never leave France. Share a gourmet experience on our Marco Polo Journey through villages and vineyards along the Marne aboard the intimate, six-cabin canal barge, ‘Panache.’ Enjoy private tastings from Champagne to Alsace, and savor meals at Michelin-starred restaurants. Relax aboard your comfortable floating inn, and, when the mood strikes, take a complimentary bicycle to ride into a nearby village.”
Abercrombie & Kent
www.abercrombiekent.com
Visit LuxeGetaways.com/magazine to view the Spring 2017 Issue
