Sunday – Paris to Nevers. Moor in Pont Canal de Guétin
Depart
Paris, Gare de Lyon, on the TGV train. On arrival at Nevers station you
are met by a representative of HIRONDELLE who transfers you to the
barge at Le Guétin on the Canal Latéral à la Loire. A champagne
reception is followed by an evening cruise on the canal. Enjoy your
first dining experience on board the boat.
Monday – Visit Aprémont. Cruise to La Charité sur Loire. Visit Nevers.
This
morning take a short drive to Aprémont, one of the most beautiful
villages in France, to visit the private Château and gardens. In the
afternoon take 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 La Charité-sur-Loire. Cruise to Ménétréol.
A
morning visit to La Charité-sur-Loire, an important site of Burgundian
Romanesque art, and a renowned resting place for pilgrims on the road
to Santiago de Compostela. In the afternoon, take a short trip to
Tharenay to taste the famous Pouilly Fumé wine.
Wednesday - Visit Sancerre. Cruise to Léré.
After
a relaxing morning’s cruise and lunch, take a short drive to Sancerre,
situated on an impressive hilltop. Visit the goat farm of Francois
Blain to see how the famous ‘crottin’ cheese is made. Enjoy a private
wine tasting at the fabulous 15th century Chateau Tracy, one of the
most prestigious producers in the Loire.
Thursday - Visit Guédelon and Gien. Cruise to Châtillon-sur-Loire.
After
breakfast, visit Guédelon where for the last six years a team of
engineers have been constructing a fortified château using 13th century
techniques, fascinating viewing for all. This afternoon, visit a
faïence factory in the beautiful town of Gien.
Friday - Cruise to Rogny Les Sept Écluses. Visit Le Jardin de Parfumers & St. Fargeau
The
barge traverses the river Loire via the longest canal bridge in Europe
connecting the Canal Latéral à la Loire to the Canal du Briare, built
by the famous engineer Eiffel. Enjoy the lovely village of Mezilles and
the Jardin de Parfumer where they still make perfume in the traditional
way. Nearby is the beautiful Château de Saint Fargeau with a history
spanning a thousand years. Farewell gala dinner on board.
Saturday - Rogny -Paris.
After
breakfast disembark the barge and transfer to the Nevers rail station.
Return to Paris (Gare de Lyon) on the TGV where you are met a
representative who will assist you with your luggage.
NOTE: Itineraries are subject to change
