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
