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Check-in Time / Location 4:00 PM in Beziers or Narbonne
Ground floor
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On the Grounds
La Maison Saraphina on Land and Barge Saraphina on Water
Cruise: Travel the Canal du Midi from Beziers to Homps on barge Saraphina
Land: Authentic country house living at La Maison Saraphina
In the late afternoon, your entire party will be met at either your hotel in Narbonne or Narbonne Train Station. Transfer to the enchanting La Maison Saraphina, an 18th century farmhouse, now modernized, but retaining antique charm, surrounded by fruit trees and gardens. You will be welcomed by your hosts Captain Finn and Chef Emily Campfens; then indulge in champagne and toast to new experiences! There’s time to explore your “home away from home,” followed by the first of Chef Emily’s gourmet dinners.
After a leisurely breakfast, your Tour Guide introduces Pézenas, a charming town brimming with history and artistic allure. Explore its quaint streets, ancient buildings and unique shops. Then enjoy a delightful café lunch before departing to board Saraphina, moored near the nearby town of Beziers. Today’s journey features an incredible cruise up the eight- staircase lock of Fonserannes, a 17th century engineering feat. Then return to La Maison for evening cocktails and an alfresco dinner, prepared with Chef Emily’s garden-grown ingredients.
Start the day on Saraphina as Captain Finn pilots a relaxing canal cruise past adorable villages and stunning landscapes on the way to Capestang. After lunch ashore at a local auberge, choose your afternoon pleasures: either tour the Abbaye de Fontfroide, an elegantly restored Cistercian monastery; or return to La Maison to laze by the pool or enjoy a friendly tennis match. As the sun sets, sip cocktails on your private terrace and anticipate this evening’s epicurean dinner.
This morning, with your Tour Guide, head to Narbonne, an important town since Roman times. The covered market, Les Halles, presents a panorama of colorful produce, locally-made cheeses, and freshly baked breads. Browse, taste, and soak up the ambiance. Then enjoy a hearty lunch (entertainment included!) at Chez Bebelle, located right in the market. Return to Saraphina for an afternoon cruise. Lounge on deck or relax in the petite dining area as tranquil scenery floats by. Back at La Maison, Chef Emily is preparing this evening's gourmet dinner, accompanied by fine regional wines.
This morning, taste and tour at L'Oulibo, the region's cooperative olive pressoir, followed by a visit to the mountain-top village of Minerve. A beautiful village dating from the 10th century, the preserved avenues and facades overlook remarkable landscapes. Then, board Saraphina for a cruising lunch. End the day with dinner ashore at the renowned Auberge La Croisade, located nearby to La Maison on the banks of the canal; a delightful setting sure to add happy culinary memories of your Surf & Turf adventure!
This morning, experience La Cite of Carcassonne, the largest extant Medieval fortress in Europe. Your Tour Guide will introduce the ancient castle and restored ramparts. Stroll the cobblestoned streets into local cafes and specialty boutiques, followed by lunch ashore at a charming bistro. Then, board Saraphina and lounge on deck, soaking in the last views of shimmering water and serene landscapes. Meanwhile, Chef Emily is in the kitchen preparing a multi-course Farewell Feast. Over drinks and dinner, reminisce about the sights, scenes, and special experiences as you cruised the canal on barge Saraphina and luxuriated on land with La Maison Saraphina.
After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to your drop off point in Narbonne.
Restaurants in this itinerary may not be available during your Surf and Turf adventure. A venue of equal quality will be substituted.
Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions.
Goat’s Cheese Cheesecake with Red Onion Jam and Walnut Granola
Filet of Sea Bream with Cauliflower Purée, Tomato and Black Garlic Salsa, Squid Ink Tuile, Crispy Buckwheat, and Noilly Prat Sauce
Cheese Course: Brie de Meaux and Mimolette
Homemade Crème Brûlée
“Finn is the recognized Master of the Canal du Midi, and his pride and knowledge of that beautiful barge was evident in all of our interactions. Emily’s offerings from the kitchen were all dazzling, not only in their taste and creativity, but in their presentation as well.”
– R. Karakis, Barge Saraphina
Are you ready to discover the cultural treasures
of the Canal du Midi?
