Sunday – Paris to Nevers. Transfer to Pont Canal de Guétin.
Depart
Paris, Gare de Lyon, on the TGV train in the afternoon. On arrival at
Nevers station you are met by the guide who transfers you to the barge
moored in Pont Canal de Guétin. A champagne reception welcomes you and
gives you a chance to meet the crew. An evening cruise on the Canal de
Latéral à la Loire will introduce you to the pleasure of canal
cruising.
Monday - Cruise to Imphy (Chevenon). Visit Nevers.
This
morning, the barge cruises to Imphy, the site of a “pont canal” which
traverses the river Allier. Imphy (Chevenon) is a small country mooring
and a quiet place to walk or bicycle. After lunch, enjoy a walking tour
of Nevers, the capital of the Nivernais, with a private visit to the
workshop of Mr Bernard to see the master ceramic maker at work and a
chance to buy some of the distinctive blue and gold faience.
Tuesday - Visit Château d’Aprémont and wine tasting. Cruise to Decize.
After
breakfast, visit the 15th century Château d’Aprémont with its fabulous
gardens set in a medieval village. Enjoy a wine tasting at one of our
favorite vineyards in the Loire Valley. The barge will cruise from
Imphy to Decize stopping at the little village of Avril-sur-Loire where
you can visit the rural ‘Ferme d’Escargots’ where you can sample one of
France’s most famous delicacies!
Wednesday - Visit Bourbon -Lancy. Cruise to Garnat-sur-Engièvre.
Today’s
excursion is to the beautiful medieval town of Bourbon Lancy. Step back
in time as your guide leads you through the medieval quarter with its
authentic timbered houses and 14th century Belfry which houses a unique
automaton.
Thursday - Visit Chateau of St Aubin. Cruise to Diou.
Enjoy
a leisurely morning cruise to Diou. This afternoon, take a private tour
of the chateau of St Aubin, a fine example of renaissance architecture
with extensive grounds and kitchen gardens.
Friday - Cruise to Digoin. Visit La Clayette.
Cruise
to Digoin and moor at the picturesque Pont Canal. After lunch, enjoy a
drive through the countryside to see La Clayette, its château and the
specialty chocolate factory of M. Bernard Dufoux. The master himself
demonstrates the art of making chocolate, followed by a private
tasting. Automobile enthusiasts may tour the vintage car museum where
all the vehicles are for sale.
Saturday - Le Creusot - Paris.
After
breakfast disembark the barge and transfer to the Le Creusot rail
station. Return to Paris (Gare de Lyon) on the TGV where you are met by
the barge representative who will assist you with your luggage.
NOTE: Itineraries are subject to change
