Living the French Dream: A Journey Aboard Les Bateaux Belmond

At Coolidge & Co., we’re always in search of truly transformative travel experiences — the kind that sweep you off your feet and transport you to a different world. After a recent journey with Les Bateaux Belmond, I can say with full confidence: this is the floating villa experience you never knew you needed.

Imagine living inside a dream French romantic comedy — sun-dappled afternoons drifting along quiet canals, lavender fields rolling by, historic villages just a short bike ride away, and every moment touched by an effortless, cinematic charm. That’s exactly what Belmond delivers, and more.

Each of Belmond’s river barges feels like a private villa on water. The design is both luxurious and intimate: chic and cozy cabins, great salons, and stylish decks for lazy lounging with a glass of rosé. But what truly sets this apart is the all-inclusive experience. Your private chef crafts meals inspired by the regions you cruise through — think market-fresh produce, handmade pastries, perfectly paired wines — while your onboard crew handles every detail with warmth and grace.

Excursions are woven seamlessly into your days, from private wine tastings at storied vineyards to visits to medieval towns and bustling local markets. Yet nothing ever feels forced — the pace is yours to set, whether you want to linger longer over a lazy lunch or detour for a spontaneous countryside picnic.

In an era where privacy, authenticity, and personalization are the true markers of luxury, Les Bateaux Belmond offers something truly rare: the ability to live entirely in the moment, surrounded by beauty, nurtured by impeccable service, and completely at ease.

For those seeking a sophisticated, cinematic, "pinch me, is this real?" style getaway, this is your next great love story waiting to happen.

Contact us at Coolidge & Co. to plan your bespoke voyage aboard Les Bateaux Belmond — trust us, your French daydreams have never been closer to reality.