Top 5 less-frequented river destinations in summer
A river cruise in summer is already a choice for peace and quiet and a change of scenery. But some itineraries are even more unspoilt, allowing you to take full advantage of nature, gourmet stops and typical villages... without having to share the quayside with too many neighbours! Ideal for a taste of slow tourism, at your own pace and without constraints. Here are 5 destinations to try out in summer for a more leisurely licence-free houseboat cruise.
1️⃣ Charente: a gentle and authentic river
Called ‘the most beautiful river in France’, there's a good reason for this: the Charente combines bucolic landscapes, renowned vineyards and a gentle way of life to be savoured without moderation. Between Cognac and Angoulême, every stopover is an opportunity to visit a picturesque village, enjoy a glass of wine on the estate or take a dip in the crystal-clear water.
Don't miss: Visit a Cognac house, have a picnic by the water in Saintes and cycle along the towpaths. Ideal for a family week out!
👉 Discover river cruises in the Charente
2️⃣ Mayenne: nature, biking and picnics
Less famous than its neighbours, the Mayenne is nonetheless a nugget for those who like to alternate boating and walking. The towpath is perfectly suited to cycling, so you can set off to explore the surrounding villages or head to a little guinguette for lunch. The locks are stress-free, and the river offers pretty beaches for swimming or paddle-boarding.
Charming little ports like Château-Gontier with good restaurants and local markets to fill the hold with fresh produce. Perfect for a green, peaceful holiday.
👉 Navigate a licence-free houseboat on the Mayenne
3️⃣ Ardennes: forest, nature and wild meanders
Fancy seeing more herons than boats? Then head for the Ardennes! Here, the Meuse winds its way through deep forests and green hillsides. Every bend is a postcard, every village a pretext for a gourmet stopover or a stroll along the hiking trails.
A must-do: A stopover in Charleville-Mézières to discover the Place Ducale, stroll along the harbour or attend a festival in summer. Fishermen will also find their happiness in these fish-filled waters!
👉 Explore the Ardennes by licence-free houseboat
4️⃣ Franche-Comté: the gentle waters of the Petite Saône
In the heart of the Franche-Comté region, the Petite Saône is a well-kept secret among pleasure boaters, with its clear waters, flower-filled stopping places, half-timbered villages and perfect bathing spots. Here, there's no stress: you navigate at your own pace, fish, organise a barbecue on the riverbank... and enjoy the absolute peace and quiet.
A must-do: Cyclists love the flat, shady towpath, ideal for cool pedalling at sunrise. Children, meanwhile, enjoy the small natural beaches for splashing around in complete safety.
👉 Discover Franche-Comté by river
5️⃣ Mecklenburg: Germany in its natural version
The Thousand Lakes region in Mecklenburg, northern Germany, is a paradise for lovers of wide open spaces and peaceful cruises. Here, canals link a myriad of natural lakes: swimming, paddle-boarding and lazing around are all on the agenda, without ever stepping on each other!
Discover: Schwerin and its fairytale castle set on the water, the friendly harbours where you can enjoy smoked fish and the many cycle paths for exploring the surrounding countryside.
👉 Go on a river cruise in Germany
Ready for a summer away from the crowds?
This summer, opt for slow river tourism and discover a different way of travelling: simple, peaceful and licence-free. Pack your luggage, your bikes... and let the current carry you!
👉 Book your secret cruise now and enjoy summer without the crowds!
