A Dreamy Escape: Romantic Cruise and Stay on the River Seine

When it comes to river cruising, Normandy’s rustic beauty is often overlooked. Yet, we discovered that the Seine river offers a delightful surprise. After checking into a stunning riverside hotel, we embarked on a private day cruise with a local guide eager to share his passion for the region. Between the scenic cruise and our peaceful night by the river at the hotel, we experienced moments far beyond our expectations.

Dominique Polny, Liberté Seine

A passionate navigator, Dominique takes you on a cruise through the waters of his childhood. As you drift along the Seine, he’ll share captivating stories and anecdotes that reveal what makes the Seine river so unique.

Looking to explore Normandy’s wild side from the water? Phil and I jumped at the chance to embark on a river cruise with Liberté Seine, aboard a powerboat designed for up to six guests. With the promise of effortless relaxation and breathtaking scenery, we met our captain Dominique in Muids for a three-hour escape into nature. As we left the pontoon behind, Phil eagerly joined Dominique at the helm, taking his first steps into the world of motor cruising.

Exploring the Seine river with a local

There’s no better way to discover a place than through the eyes of a local, especially when that local has spent their entire life along the River Seine. Cruising these waters with Dominique feels like having an old friend guide you, sharing fascinating stories, historical insights, and personal anecdotes. “Did you know I sometimes get asked by international visitors if crocodiles live in the Seine?” His job seems to be a blend of passion and fun, and his deep connection to the area adds an incredible layer of richness to the experience.

“Sylvie, would you like to take the helm?” asks Dominique. A dream come true! With Dominique’s calming guidance, I gain the confidence to steer, and to my surprise, it’s easier than I expected. As we glide along the river, the peaceful scenery unfolds—vast landscapes, wildlife thriving all around. When lunchtime arrives, we anchor the boat and indulge in a delicious gourmet picnic, freshly prepared by the team at the Moulin de Connelles. We raise a glass, toasting to the joy of this unforgettable day.

An exotic feeling

After lunch, we leave the main river and navigate through smaller, off-the-beaten-path waterways, enhancing our sense of adventure. Surrounded by thick, vibrant greenery, we start to feel as though we’ve entered an exotic paradise, reminiscent of the Amazon jungle—a true change of scenery. As the cruise concludes, the captain drops us at the impressive pontoon of the Moulin de Connelles, a fairytale manor nestled in pristine parkland. From the boat, the half-timbered façade with its turrets, gables, and beams framed by lush greenery presents a dreamlike sight.

A cosy night by the River Seine

Upon arrival, we are warmly welcomed by the owner, Karine, who shares the fascinating history of this elegant hotel. We are then led to our stunning room, bathed in natural sunlight. The design exudes warmth and comfort, with delightful details that make it feel like a home away from home. The bathroom, surrounded by large windows, lets in the natural light, while the spacious bed has been raised for the perfect view of the Seine. The room offers plunging views over the garden and the river, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

Embracing the moment

We make our way into the dining room, where the light-filled space offers panoramic views of the Seine on both sides. The menu features a velvety zucchini and fried onion soup, rabbit terrine with vegetables and berries, sea bass fillet, and a poached nectarine with homemade bourbon vanilla ice cream and seasonal fruits for dessert. Each dish is a masterpiece—flavorful, beautifully presented, and paired with a remarkable 2016 Côtes de Blaye.

Welcomed by the Chef himself, we are enchanted by the exceptional cuisine, the warmth of the atmosphere, and the kindness of the service. This meal, like the entire experience, becomes a treasured memory—a reminder to embrace the present and live fully our trip to Normandy !

Useful Information

A unique place

The River Seine

The Seine, spanning over 770 km, is a river that drains a large portion of the Paris Basin, passing through the cities of Troyes, Paris, and Rouen. It originates in the Côte-d’Or region and flows into the English Channel.