"Falling" For Europe In Autumn From The Deck Of A Luxury Hotel Barge

Online, October 13, 2010 (Newswire.com) - With the throngs of summer tourists gone and temperatures diminishing, there is no better time to visit Europe, where the fall foliage is out in full force. For a growing number of experienced travelers, the best way to watch the countryside as it transforms into a spectacular canvas of colors is from the deck of a luxury hotel barge as it cruises the waterways and canals of Europe. If you and a companion can "get up and go" right now, you can still catch some of the remaining scheduled departures and be rewarded with great, last minute deals. However, since "there's always next year," this could also be a perfect time to plan for a memorable trip next year, since cruise companies are already accepting reservations.

"Autumn is the ideal time to finally make that trip to Europe that you keep putting off," said Derek Banks, Managing Director of European Waterways, the largest barge cruising company in Europe "The crowds are gone, the weather is mild, the prices are lower, and the scenery is just magnificent. The fall foliage season turns the sprawling fields and forests of Europe into a beautiful red and gold oasis."

European Waterways offers luxury hotel barge cruises that venture into the Burgundy region in France, frequently labeled the "Land of Fine Art and Living," and Gascony, a hidden jewel located in southwest France that is known for its "douceur de vivre" (sweetness of life).

In Burgundy, hop aboard the L'Art De Vivre and cruise the Nivernais Canal, an area that remains largely undiscovered today, separated from the bustling crowds in the cities and on the edge of the Morvan Hills. It is here where you will find forests, pastures and heaths that invite spectacular foliage viewing. Six-night cruises also includes a visit to Vezelay and its magnificent hilltop basilica; a structure designated a "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO.

Or perhaps take a trip to Gascony, often referred to as the "Tuscany of France", a must-see destination for those looking to discover the most beautiful sites Europe has to offer in autumn. The rural and peaceful splendor of the region is on full display, with striking colors seemingly painted on its rolling hills.

Another European Waterways vessel, Rosa, offers 6-night journeys that include cruising the Canal Lateral a la Garonne, a waterway that leads towards historic "bastides" - fortified new towns that were built during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries in an effort to colonize southwest France.

Onboard amenities include a sun deck, spa pool and eight bikes for cycling, as well as a comfortable lounge area, dining room and an open, all-inclusive bar. Cabins feature twin or double bed configurations at passengers' request and all barges have a knowledgeable, English-speaking crew that caters to your every wish.

You can find more information on these itineraries and other European Waterways cruises by calling toll-free 1-800-394-8630 or logging on to www.gobarging.com. The company frequently posts special discount offers that could save you thousands of dollars off their standard cruise rates. It is also accepting bookings for the 2011 season.