Barge Rosa cruises along the pastoral backdrop of Gascony’s gorgeous scenery in southwest France.
Originally an old Dutch “Clipper” vessel purpose-built in 1907 to sail the offshore waterways of Holland, she now navigates the calmer canals of France as a charming hotel barge. Owned and operated by Dominique and Catherine Monclus, in 2010 the Rosa underwent significant renovations and upgrades to offer guests a modern travel experience while preserving the charm of the boat’s clever design and vintage details. Both natives of France’s southwest region, Dominique and Catherine now warmly welcome guests onboard the Rosa with a passion to present the area’s fascinating culture and signature cuisine as only locals can authentically share.
Serving as the barge’s social center and dining area, the prettily decorated salon offers plenty of inviting seating perfect for relaxing over a glass of locally-produced Sauternes or a nip of small batch Armagnac. The spacious sundeck beckons for festive al fresco meals, while comfortable lounge chairs ensure the perfect perches to watch the scenery slip by. Four cozy ensuite staterooms accommodate up to eight passengers.
The region’s rich flavors and abundant produce are at the forefront of the Rosa’s culinary program, presenting a gourmet taste of Gascony’s gastronomy. Relying on the freshest of seasonal ingredients from local markets, lunches and dinners are further crafted to harmonize with the area’s iconic wines. A curated list of exceptional elixirs from nearby Bordeaux vineyards appeal to all levels of wine drinkers, from casual enthusiasts to selective oenophiles.
Rosa’s cultural discovery reveals the historical highlights and intriguing antiquities inherent in the Southwest of France. Escorted visits to preserved chateaux, guided tours of lively towns, and private tastings of locally-produced specialties ensure an exciting introduction to the region’s epicurean pleasures and aesthetic treasures.
