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The 13-passenger L'Impressionniste, sistership to La Belle Epoque, began life as a cargo barge in Holland before undergoing a complete transformation into the powerful canal and river cruiser she is today.

Her light and airy interior features picture windows and selections of prints, fabrics and wall colorings reminiscent of the turn of the century era after which she has been named. She is crewed by a knowledgeable Captain, Chef and crew of three.

L'Impressionniste's classic route covers some fine rural cruising, with plenty of opportunity to cycle and stroll along the tow-path and wander into nearby villages.

Cruise highlights:

• All-inclusive open bar, free wines,gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
• Clos de Vougeot, home of the Chevaliers du Tastevin
• Wine tasting at the renowned Domaine Jafflin
• Visit Beaune, including Hotel Dieu Hospice & Main Champy
• Tour of Abbaye de la Bussiere, followed by lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant
• Visit to 13th century Chateau de Commain
• Tour Dijon and Ducal Palace
• Great walking and bicycling

Burgundy and the Upper Nivernais

Burgundy boasts some of the world's finest wines with almost 60,000 acres of sun-lit vines and arguably the prettiest canal in France. The Nivernais canal randomly meanders along the path of the picturesque River Yonne. This delightful exchange brings you the finest cruising in Burgundy. Medieval villages are surrounded by unspoiled countryside where gastronomic delights are a culture in themselves. Taste the famous escargots, dine on a typical meal of Poulet aux Romarin in Papillotes, or Truite à la Chablisienne accompanied by a full-bodied Burgundian red wine or lighter Chablis white. Simply indulge in the utter enjoyment every day delivers aboard.

The Upper Nivernais remains an undiscovered region well off the beaten track on the edge of the Morvan hills. The sleepy hamlets, white grazing Charolais cattle, and woods and forests are typical of the scenery you will cruise through. During the summer months, visit the Valley of Sardy, a canal section with smaller locks, where time seems to have stood still for over 200 years. The hand-swung bridges are a delight, as are the old logging sites which are now an almost forgotten memory for the local people. This is the original home of hotel barging.

Regional specialties:

• Filet d'Agneau au Basilic
• Magret de Canard
• Poulet à L'Estragon

Wine cellar:

• Chateau de la Saule 2005
• Domaine Corsin, Pouilly Fuisse
• Domaine Laroche, Chablis Premier Cru
• Domaine Bruo Clair, Marsannay 
• Gevrey Chambertin
• Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue, Musigny

Cheese Board:

• Aisy Cendré
• Bouton de Culotte
• Epoisses
• Ami du Chambertin