Light, bright, and modern, barge Pivoine (French for “peony”) gently plies the Marne Valley in Champagne along the Marne River and Canal Lateral a la Marne.
Champagne’s inland waterways provide an untouched and rustic cruise route, with many vineyards lining the shores of rolling hills and verdant landscapes. From the barge’s summer-chic decor to the deluxe details, Pivoine’s accommodations and amenities reflect the floral beauty and botanical bounty of the region — yellow for peonies and white for champagne.
Furnishings, seating, and even lighting in the Pivoine’s public areas were selected for a classic barge cruise experience in contemporary luxury. Guests step into a skylit salon with the charming ambiance of an airy seaside estate. The dining room features a natural wood table placed under the skylight, perfect for enjoying multi-course meals indoors while socializing under the sky and stars. Al fresco wining and dining on the spacious shaded deck is another leisurely pleasure, and the petite swimming pool welcomes guests to linger in the water for hours while sipping glasses of locally produced bubbly.
Private spaces on the Pivoine further the luxuriant concept of nature’s luscious abundance. Stylishly designed with neutral color palettes and enlivened with the tactile textures of fresh floral accents, the four generously sized King bedded cabins welcome guests into a sumptuously serene world of rest and relaxation. Parisian embroidered bed covers in soft colors offer fashionable havens of posh comfort, with plenty of natural sunlight flowing in from large picture windows. Terra cotta bathrooms are sleek, refined, and roomy.
Of course, the region’s signature drink is on offer at both internationally known and family run champagne houses, where cellar tours and special tastings uncover the secrets to producing France’s effervescent elixirs. The region’s historical treasures and cultural touchstones are also presented; a visit to the Reims Cathedral reveals where the monarchs of France were crowned, and moving memorials speak to the military might of World War 1.
Foodies and Francophiles will certainly savor the gourmet cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets along the cruise route. Boutique champagnes, sparkling wines, and other regionally sourced spirits augment the culinary discovery aboard the Pivoine.
Last visited in 2018
