ATHOS Luxury Barge Cruises are run with 5
crew members including her
Captain of 17 years, Julian Farrant, his wife and ATHOS Tour Guide of
10 years, Dannielle, a full-time onboard Chef, and 2 hostesses. The
ATHOS Crew has a well-earned reputation for hosting their guests with
charm and competence.
Combined with the scenic and historical
Canal du Midi, ATHOS is a perfect choice for vacationers who enjoy
comfortable accommodations with air conditioning/heating, the sunny
Mediterranean climate, and gourmet French Cuisine and wine amongst good
company.
Traditionally built in 1964 as a commercial
sand, grain
and wine barge, the ATHOS was designed especially for the Canal du
Midi. ATHOS was converted into a luxury holiday vessel in 1982, and now
holds 5 cabins (max. 10 passengers), each cabin with ensuite bathroom
and a choice of twin or double beds; a main saloon with a large dining
area, lounge and bar; and a spacious upper deck. Since her 1982
conversion, ATHOS has undergone a number of redecorations and
renovations, keeping her in her well-reputed classy condition.
Nestled
in the shade of giant Plain trees and surrounded by endless vineyards,
Athos cruises through low 16th century bridges, past rustic stable
houses, and into the slow-moving Southern French Villages. This
historical setting makes for spectacular landscapes and scenery, not to
mention the smooth and relaxing pace that is unrivaled from the deck of
the luxury hotel barge, ATHOS.
Read on for cruise highlights and details of
the cuisine and fine
wines, or use the side menu to explore the various cruise itineraries
on offer, check cruise rates and view our barge photo gallery.
Cruise
highlights:
- All-inclusive open bar, free
wines, gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
- Visit the medieval city of Carcassonne
- Wine tasting at Domaine de Guery
- Visit Pezenas, an architectural gem
- Passage through Fonserannes locks
- Visit Roman Narbonne
- Cross the 18th century Orb canal bridge
- Good towpath for walking or cycling
- Optional Hot Air Ballooning
Cuisine
aboard:
Gourmet
Onboard Dining
As
part of the inclusive cruise, your personal Chef will invite you to all
meals onboard while you are with Athos. He carefully selects fresh
produce from the local markets, and will delight you with regional
flavours and traditional dishes served with flare and style. Here are
some samples of what you might taste while onboard the Athos:
Entrée:
- Warm Goats’ Cheese Croutons
drizzled with Honey and Walnuts, served on a bed of Lambs’ Lettuce in
Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette.
Plat
Principal:
- Fresh
Mediterranean Sole in Clarified Butter & Lime Sauce, served
with
Citron & Lime-Infused Couscous and crispy Mange-touts.
Cheeses:
- Chaource
- Rochebaron
- Camembert
Dessert:
- Fondant au Chocolat with Grand
Marnier and Crème Anglaise
Wines:
- Château de la Colombette 2005
Sauvignon Blanc
- Domaine de Gaujal 2005 AOC Picpoul
de Pinet
- Château Etang de Colombes Gris Rosé
- Domaine de la Fraisse AOC Minervois
Rosé
- Borie du Maurel, Esprit d’Automne
2004 AOC Minervois Rouge
- Château de la Liquiere 2002
Tradition AOC Faugeres
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