Sunday - Paris to Besançon
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
NOTE: Itineraries are subject to change
