- Mindful travel is seeing a surge in popularity, especially among river cruisers.
- European Waterways has a new itinerary designed for mindful travel.
- The itineraries will be across different countries in Europe including France and Ireland.
Travellers are fast realising that slow travel is the way forward and that river cruising offers the ultimate way to experience mindful travel. European Waterways have embraced the trend, offering new itineraries in 2025 for people seeking the ultimate in luxury travel without the hustle and bustle.
Well-known as a leader in luxury barge cruising throughout Europe’s inland rivers, European Waterways are taking a determined approach to promoting relaxation – without compromising on providing enriching experiences along the way through accessing the local cultures and landscapes.
How to embrace mindful travel
The practice of mindfulness is about being present in the current moment. Easier said than done. But European Waterways say their small barge experiences encourage this style of travel because of their smaller, more intimate setting. The luxury barges accommodate small group settings of up to twenty passengers which encourages connection and subtle interactions.
The other emphasis is on slowing down. With the barges covering shorter distances of around 100 kms each week and cruising at just 3mph, it doesn’t get much cruisier than this. The line believes this encourages awareness and presence in the moment while promoting responsible travel practices and allows passengers to savour the destinations, from the picturesque vineyards along the Canal du Midi while cruising the 8-passenger Anjodi or the magical Loch Ness from the eight-passenger Scottish Highlander vessel.
The benefits of Barge cruising
The luxury barges of European Waterways are also able to navigate smaller, more peaceful canals and rivers. This allows passengers to access off-the-beaten-track towns and villages off the cards for larger ships.
What does a mindful itinerary include?
The gentle pace of the barge cruise still offers immersive experiences such as guided walks through historic towns and small villages.
A European Waterways itinerary onboard the 12-passenger Panache barge in Alsace & Lorraine includes the postcard village of Lutzelbourg, tastings at boutique champagne houses such as Frerejean Frères, and private tours of a private falconry display and tour at the Château de Commarin.
Expert guides encourage guests to immerse themselves in the details along with local knowledge, creating lasting memories that go beyond typical tourist experiences.
Mindful cuisine and culture
European Waterways is also promoting its slow travel trend through the connection with cuisine and the dining culture in general. Hand-picked itineraries create opportunities for guests to engage with locals in meaningful ways such as a private dining experience with the Baron and Baroness of the exclusive Château de Ricey-Bas, while onboard the La Belle Epoque barge itinerary.
Passengers can kick back and listen to enchanting tales from local lockkeepers, or strike up conversations with artisans in colourful markets including Narbonne while cruising aboard the 8-passenger Enchante.Â
On the ten passenger Shannon Princess barge passengers can observe the traditional Irish hand weavers in small village markets the Emerald Isle. And on every itinerary, each barge’s onboard Master Chef prepares menus using seasonal and local ingredients, complemented of course by the slow sipping of selection of regional fine wines.
What does a mindful cruise cost?
Six nights on the Alsace & Lorraine itinerary, departing June 22 are $10,950 per person twin share in a junior suite.
For more information click here.
