Throngs of tourists will soon descend on Paris for the summer Olympics , but it’s still possible to enjoy the city and its surrounds in a leisurely manner, and it’s all thanks to the country’s canal system, writes Gillian Vine It took two hours by coach to travel north from Paris to Noyen and five days to return by river. Apart from the leisurely pace, a barge cruise on the Oise and Seine rivers had much to recommend it. The package included all meals and guided off-ship sightseeing (including entrance fees) which are often expensive extras on other tours, and the lively company of a small group of like-minded travellers was a bonus.
Cruising on CroisiEurope’s MS Raymonde , a purpose-built high-end barge that takes just 22 passengers in its 11 cabins, was definitely the best way to experience the region, macerated in 2000 years of history. READ MORE: The best river cruises worldwide for historical discovery We join the vessel at Pont-l’Eveque, near Noyon, a town about half the size of Te Kuiti, yet boasting the Notre Dame cathedral, a massive edifice dating from the 12th century. After introductory drinks and a four-course dinner on board, it’s off by coach to the cathedral, its atmosphere enhanced by the darkness and the enthusiasm of knowledgeable local guide Gerald.
Some 300 years ago, paintings on the plaster walls had white paint slapped over them. In recent years, ghostly images of those 15th century originals have begun reappearing, including a strongly dra.