Vitry-le-Francois was built by Francis 1st in the 16th Century and is now an attractive market town, largely rebuilt after wholesale destruction during the Second World War. We arrive at the barge in time for a leisurely stroll before dinner on board. The following morning we set off along the valley of the River Marne on the Canal Lateral a la Marme towards Chalons-en-Champagne, mooring for the night beside a small village.
Arriving in Chalons-en-Champagne there is time to explore this important town. Of particular interest are the 13th Century Cathedral of St.Etienne, the Municipal Library's superb collection of ancient manuscripts and books, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the USA placed in the city hall after the First World War. From Chalons we continue to follow the course of the Marne to Conde sur Marne where we join the Canal de l'Aisne a la Marne. We climb through a staircase of eight interlinked locks to pass through the 2.3km long tunnel beneath the Mont de Billy. Once through the tunnel we start our descent to the River Aisne. Towards the west we see the wooded heights of the Montagne de Reims where, in the gullies and south facing slopes numerous champagne vineyards thrive.
We arrive in Reims in time to explore this magnificent city. Reims is the cultural and economic capital of the Champagne region and boasts a long and celebrated history. Here, amid the splendors of the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Tau Palace, you will find reminders of the the coronation of French kings from Clovis in 498 to Charles X in 1825. Also, as befits a regional capital, the ambiance of the center is appealing, with excellent shops, lively bars and plenty of the cosmopolitan chic one associates with champagne.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Minimum Price for bookings made before 1st January 2007.
Price includes all meals, wines, bar drinks, guided tours and excursions, and transfers.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
France
Barging
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