Barge Rosa cruises along the pastoral backdrop of Gascony’s gorgeous scenery in southwest France. This region is also known to foodies as one of the great gourmet regions of France.
Originally an old Dutch “Clipper” vessel purpose-built in 1907 to sail the offshore waterways of Holland, Rosa now navigates the calmer canals of France as a comfortable and historic hotel barge. Owned by Captain Dominique Monclus, in 2010 she underwent significant renovations to offer guests a modern travel experience while preserving the vessel’s charming vintage details. Captain Dominique supervises a top crew, whose passion it is to present the area’s fascinating culture and signature cuisine.
Serving as the barge’s social center and dining area, the pretty 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.
Escorted visits to an artisanal cheese maker; a 7th century Abbaye; a chateau tour guided by the resident countess; and an Armagnac tasting ensure an exciting introduction to the region’s epicurean pleasures and aesthetic treasures.
