Exploring Picardy From the Water

The huge range of river cruises in Europe could see you visiting any number of wonderful regions, many of them well known for their food, wine and fabulous countryside. Picardy, in Northern France, however, is probably more famous for its intrinsic link to the First World War. The River Somme, today a peaceful and meandering waterway, was once the focus of the First World War and is extremely significant for many soldiers and their families throughout Europe today.

There are excellent companies offering river cruises in Europe that include a trip through Picardy’s beautiful, tranquil countryside. Should you choose to travel through this region, you will encounter charming historical towns, stunning landscape and warm, welcoming locals.

Discovering Picardy by Barge

Picardy is ideal for barging, as it comprises a network of very navigable waters. In true French tradition, these waterways have been used for trade and commerce throughout the centuries, making the region what it is today. Many river cruises in Europe combine a trip through Picardy with visits to Belgium and Paris, as the waterways in the area provide an attractive route. Picardy is famous for its fantastic architecture and wonderful Gothic structures and, despite its sad and devastating history, the legacy left behind is incredibly interesting for anyone visiting the region.

The most attractive river in Picardy, as far as tourists are concerned, is the Somme. No longer is this river used by commercial barges, but instead is frequented by those travelling from England on an alternative route to the Seine. Most famous for its battlefields during World War One, the Somme is now a quiet and peaceful place to explore. Along the way, the towns of Saint-Valery, Abbeville and Amiens are popular stop-offs, and organised river cruises of the region are bound to include them on the itinerary.

The Aisne is also included in Picardy’s waterway network and it, along with its canals, meanders eastwards towards the Marne and Meuse valleys. This is a pretty little river, often avoided by the boating buffs and devoid of too many commercial barges. It is a lovely route to travel if you are looking for something a little more off the beaten path.

North of Picardy is Nord-Pas de Calais, a charming area dotted with quaint farmsteads, hidden villages, tiny abbeys, mills and other prominent rural features. Stunning chateaux are also on route and make a delightful addition to the picture postcard scenery. Chantilly and Compiègne chateaux are two castles worth visiting when on Picardy river cruises.

In Europe you are never far from a waterway and France has so many to choose from. Those who visit Picardy will never be disappointed.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for river cruises in Europe we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.