Alsace & Lorraine Barge Cruise on board Panache

Mixing German and French architectures, wine, cuisine and even language, Alsace and Lorraine have a completely distinct feel to the rest of France. Home to fairy tale castles, rolling vineyards, ancient battlegrounds and mountaintop villages, this less-visited corner of France is both fascinating and picturesque.

This six-day cruise begins in the historic city of Strasbourg and passes through the beautiful Alsatian countryside on its journey along the Canal de la Marne au Rhin. On shore, highlights include the beautiful Gothic Cathedral of Strasbourg, private wine tasting and visits to the medieval castle and Rene Lalique collection of Art Nouveau and Art Deco glassware in the mountain village of La Petite Pierre. Ascend the unique Arzviller boat elevator, lifting the Panache some 450 feet up the mountainside and cruise through the Arzviller tunnels by candlelight.

There are also optional excursions for beer tasting and an early morning visit to a local patisserie as well as plenty of opportunities to cycle or walk along the canal.