Located in the north of France, Picardy is an area that is both breathtaking and sometimes forgotten. It is a great place to visit on barge cruises in France, and it is located between Paris and Belgium for your convenience. In addition to being the site of the renowned Somme Offensive during World War I, this region is also home to a number of magnificent chateaux and churches that have become well-known thanks to film and television productions. There are a number of museums and monuments in Picardy that are devoted to reminding tourists of the horrors that took place during this conflict, which was one of the worst engagements that took place during the First World War. In spite of its troubled history, the area is home to a multitude of breathtaking structures and architecture, as well as a great number of lovely towns that are located somewhere off the usual route. Here, we take a look at some of the most exciting things that you can anticipate experiencing on barge cruises in the region of Picardy in France. France’s Chateau de Pierrefonds The towers of this majestic castle, which have a recognizable appearance, are rising over the Compiègne Forest, which is located all around it. There is a possibility that you are familiar with the shape of the towers from the BBC series Merlin or from the film Man in the Iron Mask starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The fundamental plan that you enjoy today goes back to the turn of the fourteenth century, during the Hundred Years’ War; nevertheless, the aesthetic is the product of the restoration that was commissioned by Napoleon III in the 1800s. Viollet-le-Duc, the architect who was selected, planned the chateau to seem like a version of what it had been in the past; but, due to the high cost of the construction, the inside was never finished. There is a possibility that the children may take pleasure in the eerie crypt, which is equipped with spectacular effects, if you are on one of the family barge excursions in France. In addition, the replicas of the graves of France’s notable personalities who have passed away are also fascinating. The Cathedral of Amiens The fact that magnificent Gothic Cathedral, which dates back to the thirteenth century, was erected in only fifty years is a mind-boggling realization. The fact that the building’s style is fully consistent is one of the reasons why the cathedral was declared as a World Heritage Site. This is also one of the reasons why the architecture is unique. The roof is supported by 126 pillars with fantastic proportions, and the interior of the structure is the biggest of any building of its sort in Western Europe. The building was designed with beautiful proportions. It is highly recommended that you pay a visit to the cathedral since it is home to a number of magnificent sculptures, such as a depiction of Christ in Majesty on the Day of Judgement and various saints that are associated with the Amiens region. 1916 Museum of the Somme This museum is a 250-meter tunnel that is filled with images and models, tableaus and weaponry, as well as many other military items that were relevant during the Battle of the Somme. Its location is perhaps suitably underground. You will get a creepy impression of what life was like for soldiers who were waiting for their destiny in one of the most infamous battles of the First World War as you make your way through the tight trenches that are brought to life with sound and light effects. Home of the Jules Verne family Those who are interested in Jules Verne will have a great time visiting this museum, which was once the residence of the well-known author. Piero Gondolo della Riva, a man who devoted his career to Jules Verne, made the collection of the museum his permanent home in the year 2000. The museum was purchased by the city of Nantes in 1980, but it did not become fully operational until that year. Throughout his whole life, he devoted himself to the collection of thousands of manuscripts, first editions, letters, and other items that included information about the author’s life. The renowned map that Vern personally annotated may be found in the attic, and a visit to this location also includes a visit to Vern’s office. On barge cruises in France that take in the Picardy area, you could get to visit some of the features listed above, but these are only a few of the possibilities. For the purpose of arranging a vacation from the vast range of barge cruises available in France, it is usually a good idea to go via a tour operator who has expertise in the field. Having the professionals available ensures that you will be able to arrange a vacation that you will never forget. Publisher’s Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive at European Waterways, which is widely regarded as the most reputable supplier of luxury barge cruises in France that include all-inclusive packages of services. In addition to being a member of a group of knowledgeable barge enthusiasts, Paul is the first person to recommend the advantages of a leisurely barge cruise to anybody who is searching for a vacation experience that is really one of a kind.