The 8 passenger Hirondelle, owned and operated by Afloat in France (part of the Orient-Express collection), cruises some of the most tranquil and beautiful waterways in all of Europe: the Canal de Bourgogne, the Canal du Centre, the Canal du Rhône au Rhine and the River Saône. The large windows, well above the water line, and the sun-deck on the top deck of the boat make it easy for you to enjoy the passing scenery of Burgundy and Franche-Comté: renowned for their vineyards, Gothic churches and abbeys, Renaissance châteaux and picturesque villages.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1, Sunday: Depart Paris, Gare de Lyon, on the TGV train in the afternoon. On arrival at Dijon station you are met by the Captain who transfers you to where the barge is moored at Besançon beneath the King’s tower of the Citadel. A champagne reception welcomes you on board and gives you a chance to meet the crew. This evening the barge remains in Besançon, giving you the opportunity to view this bustling city.
Day 2, Monday: Visit the Citadel. Cruise to Osselle. Following a typical French breakfast your guide escorts you on a tour of the Citadel, designed in the 17th century by Vauban, military architect to Louis XIV. Leaving Besançon by boat is quite spectacular; the barge cruises a short distance up the River Doubs before turning into the canal tunnel and passing directly underneath the Citadel. Emerging downstream of the town we begin our descent of the Doubs Valley until reaching our first day’s destination, a quiet mooring near the sleepy town of Osselle.
Day 3, Tuesday: Cruise to Dole. Visit the Arbois Region. The boat continues to cruise downstream, alternating between the river and sections of the Canal du Rhône au Rhine, which traverses the rugged Franche-Comté and Jura regions. Today’s visits are to Arbois, the principal town of the Jura wine producing region, and a walking tour of Dole, including the magnificent cathedral and La Maison Pasteur, home of Louis Pasteur.
Day 4, Wednesday: Cruise to St. Jean de Losne. Visit Beaune. Enjoy the lovely countryside of the Franche Comté cruising from Dole on the very scenic Canal du Rhône au Rhine to St. Jean de Losne, the barging capital of France. After lunch, your guide escorts you on a walking tour of Beaune, the capital of Burgundy to visit the famous Hotel Dieu, Hospice de Beaune. Tonight’s mooring is St. Jean de Losne. Take some time to stroll around the port to see the many working and pleasure barges.
Day 5, Thursday: Cruise to Longecourt. Visit Clos de Vougeot. Today, the barge crosses the plain from the Saône to Dijon on the Canal de Bourgogne. This afternoon, visit the Côte d’Or, planted with vines that produce some of the world’s most famous wines. Your guide takes you on a tour of “Clos de Vougeot”, a medieval chateau surrounded by vineyards. This is the headquarters of the Chevaliers du Tastevin, whose special label is awarded annually to the finest Côte d’Or vintages. Your tour is followed by wine tasting.
Day 6, Friday: Visit Dijon. Cruise to Dijon. After breakfast, your guide takes you on a walking tour of Dijon, including a visit to the Ducal Palace, the market, and the Grey Poupon mustard shop. Tour the Musée des Beaux Arts and explore Dijon at your leisure. Return to the boat for lunch and an afternoon cruise. That evening the chef has prepared a memorable feast for your farewell gala dinner.
Day 7, Saturday: Disembark. Dijon to Paris. After breakfast disembark the barge and transfer to Dijon station for your return to Paris on the TGV. On arrival at Paris Gare de Lyon, you are met by our representative who will assist you with your baggage.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Open bar
- Free wines
- Gourmet cuisine
- Entry fees to excursions
Stateroom per person $4,950
Single supplement $2,475
Charter 6 passengers whole boat $30,800
Charter 7 passengers whole boat $33,000
Charter 8 passengers whole boat $35,200
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
France
Boating and Sailing
Cultural Journey
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