| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Guided |
| Skill | Easy–Moderate |
| Length | 15 days |
| From | €1990 Rates |
| Tour Reviews |
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Day-To-Day Itinerary
*All distances are approximate. The planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc.
Paris to Bruges
Day 1: Paris
Day 2: Paris - Bougival, 21 mi. (35 km)
Day 3: Paris (Bougival) - Auvers-sur-Oise, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 4: Auvers-sur-Oise - Beaumont | Beaumont - Creil, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 5: Creil - Pont - Ste. - Maxence | Pont - Ste. Maxence - Compiegne, 21 or 29 mi. (33 or 48 km)
Day 6: Compiègne - Pont l'Évêque, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 7: Pont l’Évêque – Haudival | Haudival – Péronne, 28 or 34 mi. (44 or 54 km)
Day 8: Day in Péronne
Day 9: Péronne – Ytres | Ytres – Moeuvres, 11 or 27 mi. (19 or 45 km)
Day 10: Moeuvres – Cambrai – Arleux, 21 or 31 mi. (35 or 51 km)
Day 11: Arleux – Doornik (Tournai), 36 mi. (57 km)
Day 12: Doornik (Tournai) – Oudenaarde, 26 or 29 mi. (41 or 47 km)
Day 13: Oudenaarde – Ghent, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 14: Ghent – Aalterbrug | Aalterbrug – Bruges, 18 or 24 mi. (30 or 40 km)
Day 15: Disembarkation
Day 1: Paris
Embarkation and check-in at 2 p.m. in the center of Paris. After a welcome by the captain, crew and tour leader, there is time for a walk to the Cathedral Notre-Dame and the Ile de la Cité. Bike fitting. Optional short ride. Free night in Paris
Day 2: Paris - Bougival, 21 mi. (35 km)
During breakfast, the Zwaantje cruises the River Seine through the center of Paris. At about 10.30 a.m. you will be able to go ashore for an interesting bike ride. You can also choose to stay on board and enjoy the view while cruising out of Paris. The ship will moor in an outskirt of the city.
Day 3: Paris (Bougival) - Auvers-sur-Oise, 23 mi. (38 km)
After breakfast, you will cycle along quiet towpaths along the river Seine to St. Germain, located on higher ground. The gardens of Le Nôtre provide a magnificent view across Paris. Next, you will ride through a forest area to Conflans for a picnic on the pier amongst the terraces. After a short stop at the Pontoise Bridge, you continue cycling across the picturesque Chemin des Monts to the church of Auvers, famous for Van Gogh’s paintings. You will have the possibility to visit Van Gogh’s grave at the local cemetery during a short evening walk.
Day 4: Auvers-sur-Oise - Beaumont | Beaumont - Creil, 26 mi. (42 km)
You will start your day with a sailing breakfast to Beaumont and from here, begin cycling following the Oise River upstream. You will pass the abbey of Royaumont, one of the best-preserved abbeys from the 13th century. During the afternoon you will visit the splendid Chateau de Chantilly, a magnificent castle and its art gallery, the Musée Condé, that houses one of the finest collections of paintings in France.
Day 5: Creil - Pont - Ste. - Maxence | Pont - Ste. Maxence - Compiegne, 21 or 29 mi. (33 or 48 km)
The barge navigates to Pont-Sainte-Maxence while you enjoy your breakfast. This town owes its name to the fact that in the Middle Ages, it possessed one of the few bridges over the Oise River. Therefore Pont-Ste-Maxence became the place to stay the night for kings and merchants, who were on their way to Flanders. Your biking begins here and after a short distance, you pass the abbey of Moncel, which in 1309 was founded by King Philip le Bel. Before you reach your destination, Compiègne, you will cycle through the forest named after this town “Forêt de Compiègne”. French kings loved to hunt here. The longer tour ads some more miles of forest and also the little town of Pierrefonds, where you can admire the exterior of the impressive castle. Compiègne owes its architectural wealth to the proximity of Paris. The gardens of the Chateau de Compiègne are definitely worth a visit.
Day 6: Compiègne - Pont l'Évêque, 26 mi. (41 km)
Today you leave the river Oise to continue your trip by way of the canal system connecting France and Belgium. In the morning you cycle into the most northern part of the forest of Compiègne. Here you visit the “Clairière de l’Armistice”, the place where the French and German generals signed the Treaty to end World War I. You can visit the small but interesting museum. The route then leads across the Aisne River and through the forest of Ourscamp. In the afternoon you will spend some time in Noyon, where you can visit one of the oldest Cathedrals in the country. After your visit, you will cycle back to the canal at Pont l’Évêque, where the Zwaantje will be waiting for you.
Day 7: Pont l’Évêque – Haudival | Haudival – Péronne, 28 or 34 mi. (44 or 54 km)
Today you continue the cruise on and along the Canal du Nord. The construction of this canal was already planned in 1903, but it took until 1966 to finish the works. It was built to replace the older and smaller Canal de St. Quentin, constructed by Napoleon in 1801, to transport coal from the mines to the north. During breakfast, the barge will navigate to Haudival. Here your cycling itinerary begins through gently rolling, open, countryside to the art deco town of Ham, located on the banks of the River Somme. You will pass through other picturesque villages all the way to Péronne. The barge will be moored just outside this charming town with its quaint square and church as well as a castle and the fascinating Grande Guerre museum.
Day 8: Day in Péronne
Today the Zwaantje will stay in Péronne. You have time to visit the museum, take some rest and do some shopping. Today there is no dinner on board. You can select one of the local restaurants.
Day 9: Péronne – Ytres | Ytres – Moeuvres, 11 or 27 mi. (19 or 45 km)
The first part of your cycling tour goes through the valley of the Somme River. Later you will continue through the sparsely populated open and rolling landscape to Ruyaulcourt. At the end of WW1, this area was the frontline of the battle around the Somme.
The Canal du Nord has 2 tunnels, where the barge has to sail through. The longest one is the tunnel of Ruyalcourt, which is 4,350 meters (2.7 miles) long. As soon as are all back on board, the Zwaantje will pass this tunnel. Above the tunnel is the watershed between the rivers Somme and Escaut (Scheldt). From there the barge, therefore, goes downhill into the direction of Arleux. Mooring is in Moeuvres, an outskirt of this town.
Day 10: Moeuvres – Cambrai – Arleux, 21 or 31 mi. (35 or 51 km)
Your cycling tours leads to the city of Cambrai, once a Roman provincial capital and an important destination for pilgrims. Worth seeing are the impressive restored buildings of the city fortress, built under King Charles V. Then you will cycle through the marshlands of Chantraine to rural Arleux.
Day 11: Arleux – Doornik (Tournai), 36 mi. (57 km)
Today the Zwaantje follows the Canal du Grand Gabarit for a few hours, passing through a former industrial area of northern France. Old coal mines and steel sites border the canal. You will start your bicycle ride in Arleux. The tour goes through open farmland, through little mining towns towards Lewarde, where a mining museum can be visited.
Once in Belgium you will cycle through the so-called “white land”. The charming little fortress town Antoing lies at the heart of this region and since the Roman days, (white) limestone has been mined here. Today’s destination is Doornik (in French: Tournai), one of the oldest cities of Belgium. Now you are in Wallonia, French-speaking Belgium, where all towns and villages have both a French and a Flemish name. Up till the beginning of the 17th century, Doornik was ruled by the French. Here, tapestry weaving gained in importance, while the cloth industry became less important. In the various museums of the town, excellent examples can be seen. In 1940 the entire city center was destroyed after a German air-raid. However, the town has been renovated splendidly. Especially the cathedral the Notre Dame (12th and 13th century) is worth seeing, as well as the Belfort, which was built at about 1200.
Day 12: Doornik (Tournai) – Oudenaarde, 26 or 29 mi. (41 or 47 km)
Now the barge sails downstream the river Scheldt and after crossing the language barrier you enter the Flemish region. From here onwards Flemish is the spoken language. Your target today is Oudenaarde. In former days this little town was situated on the border of the French and German Empires and as a result, it was involved in wars frequently. Since Oudenaarde was right in the firing line, there was always someone on the look-out. The statue of the most famous watchman, Hanske de Krijger, stands atop the splendid city hall. In the first half of the 16th century this city hall was built of sandstone in Brabantine late Gothic style and it is one of the most beautiful city halls of Flanders. Oudenaarde is also known as the town of the tapestry weavers. Their tapestry is famous all over the world.
Day 13: Oudenaarde – Ghent, 26 mi. (41 km)
Shortly after starting your cycling tour at Oudenaarde you briefly stop at the ruins of the old abbey of Ename, located at the river Scheldt. You keep on following the river towards Ghent, your destination. Ghent is a lively university town with a rich history. The town arose in Roman days on the confluence of the rivers Leie and Schelde. This favorable location brought on quite some wealth with a peak in the late 13th and early 14th century. The cloth industry was a source of great richness in the late Middle Ages. In the city, many patrician residences have been preserved. In the “Lakenhal” – Cloth Hall – (1425) the cloth traders gathered. The most important church is St. Baafs cathedral, which was constructed in different centuries and in different styles. In the cathedral, several masterpieces of medieval painting are to be found. “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by Jan van Eyck is the most famous of all. You may wish to take a city tour by boat or visit the old castle Gravensteen.
Day 14: Ghent – Aalterbrug | Aalterbrug – Bruges, 18 or 24 mi. (30 or 40 km)
While enjoying breakfast you will cruise the Canal Ghent – Bruges to Aalterbrug. Here you will start your cycling tour. Today your cycling tour goes through the pleasant flat countryside of Western Flanders to Bruges. Bruges, also called “Venice of the North”, is said to be the most beautiful of all Flemish cities. Its old center, which dates from the Middle Ages, is almost completely intact. In past ages, Bruges was a metropole, center of trade and art, which you can still fully enjoy. We advise you to stay in Bruges one or more days longer so that you will have plenty of time to discover this interesting city.
Day 15: Disembarkation
End of your tour: Disembarkation after breakfast until 9.30 a.m.
Bruges to Paris
Day 1: Bruges (18 km/11 mi.)
Day 2: Bruges – Aalterbrug | Aalterbrug – Ghent, 23 or 28 mi. (37 or 45 km)
Day 3: Ghent – Oudenaarde, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 4: Oudenaarde – Doornik (Tournai), 26 or 29 mi. (41 or 47 km)
Day 5: Doornik (Tournai) – Bleharies | Bleharies – Arleux, 29 mi. (47 km)
Day 6: Arleux – Ruyalcourt, 21 or 31 mi. (35 or 51 km)
Day 7: Ruyalcourt – Péronne, 11 or 27 mi. (19 km or 45 km)
Day 8: Péronne
Day 9: Péronne – Épénancourt | Épénancourt – Noyon – Pont l’Évêque, 24 or 31 mi. (40 or 50 km)
Day 10: Pont l’Évêque – Compiègne, 21 or 35 mi. (33 or 57 km)
Day 11: Compiègne – Creil, 27 or 37 mi. (45 or 60 km)
Day 12: Creil – Beaumont – Auvers-sur-Oise, 27 or 35 mi. (42 or 57 km)
Day 13: Auvers-sur-Oise – Paris (Bougival), 24 mi. (39 km)
Day 14: Paris, Bougival – Paris
Day 15: Paris
Paris to Bruges
Day 1: Paris - Paris (Bougival) - Embarkation and check in at 2 pm in the center of Paris. Overnight in the suburbs in Bougival.
Day 2: Paris (Bougival) - Auvers-sur-Oise, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 3: Auvers-sur-Oise - Beaumont | Beaumont - Creil, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 4: Creil - Pont-Ste- Maxence | Pont-Ste-Maxence - Compiègne, 21 or 29 mi. (33 or 48 km)
Day 5: Compiègne - Pont l'Évêque | Pont l' Évêque - Chauny, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 6: Chauny - St. Quentin, 25 or 34 mi. (41 or 54 km)
Day 7: St. Quentin
Day 8: St. Quentin - tunnel of Riqueval - Honnecourt, 23 or 41 mi. (36 or 66 km)
Day 9: Honnecourt - Cambrai - Pont Malin, 24 or 37 mi. (39 or 58 km)
Day 10: Pont Malin - Doornik (Tournai), 26 or 36 mi. (43 or 57 km)
Day 11: Doornik (Tournai) - Oudenaarde, 26 or 29 mi. (41 or 47 km)
Day 12: Oudenaarde - Ghent, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 13: Ghent - Aalterbrug | Aalterbrug - Bruges, 18 or 24 mi. (30 or 40 km)
Day 14: Bruges, 13 or 24 mi. (22 or 40 km)
Day 15: Bruges, disembark by 9:30 am
Paris to Bruges
Day 1: Paris
Day 2: Paris - Bougival
Day 3: Bougival - Pontoise
Day 4: Pontoise - Creil
Day 5: Creil - Compeigne
Day 6: Compiegne - Pont 'l Eveque
Day 7: Pont 'l Eveque - Péronne
Day 8: Péronne*
Day 9: Péronne - Bouchain/Arleux
Day 10: Bouchain/Arleux – Tournai
Day 11: Tournai - Oudenaarde
Day 12: Oudenaarde - Ghent
Day 13: Ghent - Bruges
Day 14: Bruges
Day 15: Departure Bruges
*End of week 1 and departure, beginning of week 2 and arrival
Distances aboard the Feniks average approximately 28 mi. (45km) per day or an average of approximately 4 to 5 hours of biking.
Bruges to Paris
Day 1: Bruges, 11 mi. (18 km)
Day 2: Bruges - Gent, 37/25 mi. (60/40 km)
Day 3: Gent - Oudenaarde, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 4: Oudenaarde - Tournai, 28/34 mi. (45/55 km)
Day 5: Tournai - Bouchain/Arleux, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 6: Bouchain/Arleux - Hermies, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 7: Hermies - Peronne, 12/28 mi. (20/45 km)
Day 8: Peronne*
Day 9: Peronne - Pont 'l Eveque, 31/40 mi. (50/65 km)
Day 10: Pont 'l Eveque - Compeign, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 11: Compeigne - Creil, 25/31 mi. (40/50 km)
Day 12: Creil - Pontoise, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 13: Pontoise - Bougival, 12/28 mi. (20/45 km)
Day 14: Bougival - Paris, 25/28 mi. (40/45 km)
Day 15: Departure Paris
*End of week 1 and departure, the beginning of week 2 and arrival
Distances aboard the Feniks average approximately 28 mi. (45km) per day or an average of approximately 4 to 5 hours biking.
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Pricing Information
Travel Details
This tour is run by Tripsite, Jossie Verkerk, Scheepvaartbedrijf M.C. van Tatenhove, Marius van de Westeringh, Boat Bike Tours,.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.
Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Bruges to Paris or Paris to Bruges Boats + Barges
Feniks Belgium, Netherlands, France Standard Class Boat Originally, the Feniks was built in 1928 as a freighter on the Dutch, Belgium and French inland waters. In 1992, the Feniks was converted to a hotel passenger ship and put in service for various sailing holidays. Since then, she has undergone several renovations to keep up-to-date with all modern facilities.
Fleur France, Netherlands Comfort Class Boat The Fleur was first put into service in 2002. The previous owner, had the beautifully-lined barge converted into a comfortable passenger ship, according to her own design. Her female touch is definitely recognizable by the tasteful interior and her sharp eye for detail. The whole barge radiates a homelike atmosphere. In 2018 Steffie Kranz and Evert Jan Muurling, have taken over ownership.
Zwaantje France, Netherlands, Belgium Comfort Class Boat The MPS Zwaantje, which means "Little Swaan", is a wonderful comfort plus barge. The boat has 10 cabins with twin beds and 2 cabins with double beds. A nice and cozy salon with heating, air conditioning, large panoramic windows, a restaurant area, lounge corner and a small bar are on the upper deck.
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Tour Reviews
Carl B. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
I couldn't pick out one specific thing. It was our first trip to Europe, first bike trip. From the moment we met the crew from chef to guide we could not have been more pleased.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Tom D. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
Cycling, food, and staff were great. Lots to see and it was fun!
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
William B. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
This was a wonderful way to see Northern Europe, leisurely experiencing a diversity of landscapes, towns, and scenic attractions.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Amy B. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
The most memorable part of our bike/barge trip from Brugge to Paris cannot be summed up easily into one moment. I enjoyed the bonding of a group of people from various backgrounds and countries. The group worked as a team making it possible for my husband and me to thoroughly enjoy the amazing scenery, historic sites, cities, onboard dining, and even the tough rides. The staff cannot be overlooked as they were the backbone of the entire amazing experience!
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Allen L. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
Paris to Brugge on Zwanntje 5 stars is not enough to describe the barge and crew.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Jane B. 2 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
This was my first barge supported trip after a number of Hotel and Van supported trips. I loved the combination of bike and barge will keep doing this for sure. Highly recommend the Zwaantje for its captain, crew, meals and general comfort. I’ve already booked another trip for next year.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Pauline Jacobs 4 weeks ago Verified Reviewer
I did the Paris to Bruges last year. It was the most amazing trip. Aboard the Feniks with a small number of fellow travellers. This is the only way to go, looking to 2021 as my next cycling/barging trip. A great way to see Europe, and my favourite country was Belgium.A gem of a country and most of all a cycling paradise.
Reply
Peter D. 6 months ago Verified Reviewer
Our barge "Fleur" was perfect in every way as were the staff. Starting from the beautiful Belgium town of Bruges you cycle along the various canals and rivers on quite country roads, paths, cycleways and tracks through countless quaint towns, villagers and towns, including the Somme (WWI battle grounds).We highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting a casual cycle through stunning country side and of course the bonus of cruising into Paris on the Seine River , with all its sites and landmarks.
Boat: Fleur
Reply
Warren K. 6 months ago Verified Reviewer
Bruges to Paris - Visit to the Australian WW1 cemetery at Bullecourt was very moving. The WW1 museum at Perone is well worth a visit. The ride into Paris is unforgettable.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Cheryl G. 6 months ago Verified Reviewer
My best trip ever! Just loved the little villages; barge, staff and food could not be faulted. Thank you! Have recommended your site to a friend who has already booked a trip with you.
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Angela M. 7 months ago Verified Reviewer
We did the Bruges to Paris on the Zwaantje in September 2018. It was fantastic! The boat was great - clean and comfortable, the crew fabulous - professional and friendly and the food top class. I would definitely recommend (and I have) this trip to others.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Richard N. 7 months ago Verified Reviewer
The scenery! The food! The guide, chef, and captain were wonderful. Eight cabins, 16 people. The perfect size group. We did the 2 week ride from Bruges to Paris. I would definitely do one of these trips again!
Reply
Lynn S. 7 months ago Verified Reviewer
Lovely scenery, experiences and meals at the end of the day.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Warren S. 8 months ago Verified Reviewer
Very enjoyable trip! Great accommodation, great cycling and great crew & guides.
Boat: Fleur
Reply
Eric D. 8 months ago Verified Reviewer
First time I've had an art historian/architecture teacher as a tour guide. Geert was wonderful and enriched every stop.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Rod C. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
Everything was memorable, the other guests, crew, routes, guide, barge and food. 14 days with a break in the middle was just right for timing.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Marg E. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
You will not really see France and Belgium unless you cycle. This way you go through villages and towns and farms, see cathedrals, castles and even the grave of Van Gogh. The routes take you on forest, bike and tow paths, roads and cobblestones. Enjoy picnic lunches in church grounds, pubs, cafes and gardens. You will enjoy evening night walks after a delicious three course meal.
If you don't think you can do it, you can!
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Martin C. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
We were fortunate enough to have Tripsite founder, Hennie, along, who led half of our group on a terrific cycling adventure between Paris and Bruges. We made wonderful friendships and were treated royally on board the Zwaantje by the crew - and what wonderful meals!
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
David B. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part? Cycling thru the small Villages of the Somme with good riders lead by Hennie.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Pierre S. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
The two-week trip on the Zwaantje from Paris to Bruges was awesome! The crew of the ship and the tour guide were exceptional. The food, prepared by Frank, was consistently top-notch and interestingly varied day-to-day. Our guide, Geert, provided us with an excellent selection of sites, of which he had encyclopedic knowledge. The captain, Martijn, was also very engaging with the guests. Daily rides were easy to occasionally moderate, providing us with a satisfying riding experience. Almost all of the riding was in open country or small, rural towns, which we loved. However, riding in and out of the larger towns, while of necessity, did present some typical urban challenges to the bicyclists. Overall this trip is highly recommended. Pierre and Laurie
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Kathleen S. 9 months ago Verified Reviewer
I broke my wrist while half way through the trip. Everyone was very kind and supported me to make sure I was included in most activities.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Gary F. 10 months ago Verified Reviewer
Great trip, great barge, well organized, a list of fellow passengers for each cabin would have been helpful from the start
Keep in mind the MPS Zwaantje does provide hairdryers for each cabin, provides WiFi- a truly upscale barge.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Pauline J. 10 months ago Verified Reviewer
The crew of the Feniks, provided the most amazing experience. The food simple satisfying and enjoyable. Food fresh, tasty, and cooked well by the Nelje. Marius and Reinhold, provided amazing care of all our needs The accommodation small, efficient and clean. You always slept well. The guide Nina with her amazing knowledge showed us her secret places, backroads, canal paths, and bike paths. She encouraged all riders while challenging us beyond what we thought we could do. As a experience it exceeded my expectations. Looking for a different French/Belgium experience do this trip you never forget it. Will do another trip this way, and if possible on the Feniks...
Boat: Feniks
Reply
Jillian M. 1 year ago Verified Reviewer
The experience of being able to see the countryside, remote villages and sites at a slower pace with the experience and knowledge of a guide is the highlight. It is good to leave your luggage onboard the barge and know you return each evening to great food and rest.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
August D. 1 year ago Verified Reviewer
It's a shame that the incompetence and the misogynistic attitude of one person can affect what could have been a fantastic trip, our guide on several occasions got lost and we ended up doing many more kilometres of riding including a very long and steep hill climb that we had to walk in the hot sun.
I can not praise the Captain and crew of the Zwaantjie more highly it's a shame he has no control over the guides that are allocated to various trips.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Margie A. 1 year ago Verified Reviewer
The Elodie bike/barge trip was fabulous in terms of scenery, routes, staff, food. However, 2 couples on the barge were not able to keep up with our very leisurely pace. I would advise your company to stress level of fitness for participants, and also to recommend 2 guides for different ability levels.
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Angela R. 1 year ago Verified Reviewer
The whole trip was great. Other passengers on the barge were great, weather was good, one couldn't ask for anything better. The Tripsite staff were extremely helpful and I have always found them to be most professional.
Boat: Fleur
Reply
Michelle H. 1 year ago Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part? The scenery & the crew from the Feniks.
Boat: Feniks
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Rodney W. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part: The friendliness of the local villagers and our fellow travellers.
Boat: Feniks
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Robert W. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part: Getting to pilot the boat for a few minutes.
Boat: Elodie
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Richard N. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part: Riding through the small villages from Bruges to Paris. Nina was a great guide also. I really enjoyed the night walks for a better inside view of village life... the Van Gogh experience was the highlight for me.
Boat: Elodie
Reply
Alan S. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
After bicycling over 300 miles it was good to relax and see Paris from the water as we cruised to our final moorage on the Seine.
Boat: Zwaantje
Reply
Jerry K. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
We met a lot of really nice people. We were surprised that our guide was largely unfamiliar with the route!
Boat: Zwaantje
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Jeffrey D. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The trip was excellent, as attested by this being our 4th one. We will definitely be booking more. The route was good, although France lacks the same quality of bicycle paths that Belgium and The Netherlands have. There was a bit of climbing and some of the women in the group were very happy to have an electric bike option for those climbs. The barge was very clean and quite nice. The staff was excellent and really made you feel as part of the family. They went over and above for most everything. The food was very good and plentiful. The highlight of the Brugge to Paris ride would have to be Chantilly and entering Paris on the barge. The sights were incredible and seeing them from the water gave a whole different experience. The guides were great and the system of having "corners" and a "sweep" meant that no-one got lost and we could still ride at different paces. I am convinced, and I tell this all the time to anyone who listens, that these bike/barge trips Read more… are the best value for your money, period. There is no better way to see a country, than by bicycle.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Delia D. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The food was great and loved the coffee machine. Would like dinner at 7:00 pm rather than 6:30 pm to give us more time to relax and enjoy the day. No one ever eats in France before 7:30 pm and I felt like we were being treated as young campers. The Fleur needs new towels. The existing are rough and not vey absorbent. It was a very happy and congenial crew. Bert, Petra, Ellen and Aga. Thomas was most accommodating... Bike trails were good. We had the unusual situation where the majority ie 12 out of 20 bikers were of Olympian caliper. Their preferred speed was 30 to 35 kms an hour and the rest would have liked between 15 and 20 kms. and hour. We all coped but it meant you couldn't relax and enjoy the scenery. Two guides would have been the solution as promised.
Boat: Fleur
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Jehiel 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Hi Delia!
Thanks for sharing this feedback. I want to clarify that under what's included for the Fleur it mentions "Tour guide (in 2018, there will be two guides)". This will allow for two groups, different cycling speeds, and will fix this issue.
As far as dinner is concerned, the eating time is based on the logistics of the ship (routing, cooking, cleaning) and is not meant to make you feel like a young campers.
Despite this issues, I'm glad you had a great time!
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Eldon W. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The excellent staff and guide combined with the great mix of rural and forest countryside and the history in the cities and towns along the way.
Tripsite should do a better job of editing the text on their website. There were several incorrect descriptions.
Boat: Fleur
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Michelle H. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The bike & barge trip from Paris to Brugge on the Feniks was an amazing experience. The crew was exceptional, the scenery beautiful and the price was terrific. I highly recommend this trip.
Boat: Feniks
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Paula Clair S. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The scenery was a photograph almost each moment. Incredibly knowledgeable guide made every day a new adventure. Plus a very doable ride for all skill level.
Boat: Feniks
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Kurt A. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The Zwaantje and crew are top notch, and present a great value. Some of the routes in northern France had a little too much traffic. Riding in Belgium and Netherlands seems nicer. Once is enough for this tour.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Jeffrey D. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Most memorable part? There were so many, but Chantilly Castle and the Montmontre area of Paris that we had a tour of immediately come to mind. Make sure that you can ride a bike and can manage at least 30 miles on a route with the same level of climbing, otherwise use an e-bike to help you along. Bring 2 pairs of street shoes, as some days they might get wet. Remember that there will be an opportunity to leave a tip at the end, and it should be about 5-6% of the booked price. Drink wine and beer, talk to people, don't be shy about anything and remember to have fun.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Diane C. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Wide range of scenery and experiences especially going on the barge through the tunnel and excellent guiding by Fred.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Michael & Cynthia K. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
The overall experience of the barge & bike tour through wonderful countryside, villages & towns was excellent. The barge skipper/owner & staff were very good & most pleasant. The meals were of a high standard & variable throughout the two weeks.
The bikes were also very good. I had ordered an electric bike with our booking but the order did not go through. However, the ordinary hybrid bike provided did the job so I happily stayed with that.
We were also to have a double bunk, but that request did not get through either, but that was OK.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Trent A. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Most memorable part: Going through the locks. Tip would be to practice cycling up hills.
Boat: Elodie
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Madeline N. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Two items that were not as expected.
The literature states two guides but there was only one guide. This means there could only be one guided ride per day. So provide two guides or change the description of the trip to say only one guided ride per day.
Our pre-trip information provided a location for the where the barge would be moored in Paris. We selected a hotel near this location and planned activities based on this location. The boat did not dock at this location. We were not told that the location was changing. The boat docked. We didn't know where we were at and our guide also didn't know where we were at. Guide was very good. This was an issue with the boat captain.
Boat: Fleur
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Deborah P. 2 years ago Verified Reviewer
Needed the second guide as group unwieldy for one. Unlike prior trips, guide gave little info on trip sites/locales, despite being quite personable.
Boat: Fleur
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Christine C. 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
This was a fun trip full of historic sites. Would have liked to have maps so we could go off at our own speed sometimes. The side trips for additional mileage were great. Got to ride some of the "Tour de Flanders" route with cobbles and hills. Chantilly was fantastic! Also took a side adventure to a roman ruin, something we weren't expecting in that part of France.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Tony Davies 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
We did the bike barge trip from Bruges to Paris on the Zwantjie. We would absolutely recommend the trip. Our comments are:
1. While the cabins are small, they are still adequate and good layout in the bathroom ( each cabin has it's own) . They are kept very clean. They all have AC as the porthole does not open.
2. The rides was rated easy to moderate. It was MUCH harder than Bolzano to Venice so be prepared. I would say it should be rated moderate. The second week is easier than the first - perhaps due to improved fitness but also l think there are less hills.
3. Meals were good and wholesome.
4. Staff were incredibly obliging. Nothing was too much trouble. Thank you Martyn ( the Captain ), Michael ( mechanic ), Chris ( chef/cook ), Gosha ( amazingly efficient at serving meals/alcohol and cleaning the cabins ) and our great guides, Christain and Elia.
5. Size of about 24 riders is excellent. For us, better than say 30-40 as on the Ava Maria. You get Read more… to know all the riders are we had a great group of people, Australians, Americans and Poms.
6. When we stayed in Perrone we went to Villers Bretonneux. This is particularly relevant to Australians - whose troops saved the town from the Germans in WW1. A stunning memorial site -very moving. We also rode through a number of memorials to WW1 victims. Also quite moving.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Gloria S. 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
Accommodations were too small. The rest of the journey made up for lack of space. No room to put our belongings.
Boat: Elodie
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Jehiel 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
Hello Gloria,
Sorry to hear the Elodie was too small in your opinion. France is known for it's narrow canals so as a result the ships have to be smaller in order to navigate the waterways. We provide information including dimensions and note "... storage space is limited in the cabins". You can find more information on the Elodie Boat Page.
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Jim S. 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
What stands out is the friendly competent crew - Coba, Marianne and Petra, the gourmet chef - Franco, the experienced knowledgeable guides - Piet and Wouter. Together they made the two week journey both comfortable and memorable.
Boat: Fleur
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Jen Herold 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
We had a fantastic trip on the Fleur, It was well above our expectations.
The crew were fun and helpful in every way. ( food was excellent )
Bikes were easy to ride, i would take a gel seat cover for extra comfort.
Cabins were bigger than expected and the bathrooms clean with a instant hot water.
Our guide was informative, she took us into places that you would not normally enter.
We had a fun team of riders, thanks guys from the Smurfs xxx
Boat: Fleur
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M. McDonnell 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
Nearly everything excellent. The only downside was the cycling was promised to have the option of two different rides each day i.e. a long or a short ride with two different guides. There was only one guide so both options were compromised into one medium length ride each day. Many on the tour would have preferred a longer ride most days.
Boat: Fleur
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S. Mather 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
It was well above our expectations in every way, cabins, staff, cleanliness and the gourmet meals all the time. Fantastic experience.
Boat: Fleur
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B. Milroy 3 years ago Verified Reviewer
Everything exceeded expectations. I would definitely recommend the Fleur and trip
Boat: Fleur
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Paavo Kivisto 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
Issues related to the boat: bad smell, cabin room was cozier than we would choose in the future. Laundry facilities were inadequate. We really enjoyed the trip, the guide and the experience!
Boat: Feniks
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Wendy Hallinan 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
Outstanding cuisine, wonderful smiles and life long memories. We have already recommended our trip to many people. Fantastic Elodie!
Boat: Elodie
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Linda Harve 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
Our second bike and barge trip with Tripsite. What a lovely way to spend a vacation!
Boat: Elodie
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Alica Kline 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
Food was great, would have liked more flexibility on cycling.
Boat: Elodie
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Gayle Carter 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
We had brand new bikes and the guides had to spend most of their early evening time adjusting the bikes (Brugge to Paris trip) but in the end got all the bikes adjusted so they all ran well. All the boat staff and guides were fantastic.
Love your trips-must do more.
Boat: Fleur
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Gordon Maze 4 years ago Verified Reviewer
We highly recommend the Paris to Bruges bike and barge on the Elodie but one must be a strong cyclist as there are hills. The food was really excellent. Comradery among the group was high, and that's one of the great aspects of the trip.
Boat: Elodie
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Raylee Flick 6 years ago Verified Reviewer
We had an absolutely fabulous time in September this year on this trip. Cycling was fantastic-Francien an excellent guide, Inma a wonderful gourmet cook. The crew was always helpful and cheerful. The group of fellow cyclists were great fun - lots of laughs. Thank you, we will be back!!
Boat: Fleur
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Jim Elkan 6 years ago Verified Reviewer
Our Kansas City biking group just got back from our annual European bike ride..This year it was a Bike and Barge trip: Paris to Bruges..It was a great trip..The Elodie was as pleasant as advertised, the food, prepared by Chef Sander, was excellent..Our guide, Ono was very good and patient with us..Michael, our Captain, couldn't have been better..
The countryside was beautiful..It was a memorable trip and we'll see you again next year..
Jim and Janet Elkan
Boat: Elodie
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Darcy 7 years ago Verified Reviewer
I recently enjoyed the Paris to Bruges bike & barge tour and I loved it. The crew were fantastic, the service was excellent and the daily ride with a wonderful guide was great fun. It was one of the best travel experiences. Thanks to everyone on the Elodie for the ideal holiday. (I was on the 30th Sept 2012 trip)
Boat: Elodie
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Beth Ridenour 7 years ago Verified Reviewer
This was the best way to enjoy Europe combining bicycling through painting-like landscapes on a well balanced tour of culture, history and fun with a fantastic caring crew and fabulous food! The addition of a dozen Australians made it even better; and barging into Paris on a sunny afternoon with a glass of wine was divine. We're booking again in 2013!
Boat: Elodie
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Robert Burns 8 years ago Verified Reviewer
Fantastic-had a great time, food was great and bike tours were very good. Comraderie on the Fleur helped make the trip and the guides were fun with all the grief they received from us. Many sites were visited you would never see on a "packaged" tour
Boat: Fleur
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Barb Tiffany 8 years ago Verified Reviewer
This was a fantastic tour. The guide, captain, and cook were all wonderful. Great way to see the country, on small roads and bike trails. We saw an amazing amount of varied things in 14 days.
Boat: Fleur
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