Libellule
Barging in Burgundy

Passengers: 20
Size: 128 feet long
Last Visited: 2005
Rating: First Class, Air Conditioning

Please call us at (800) 880-0071 for 2009 prices.
LIBELLULE will change its route in 2009 - more details to follow.

Libelulle holds down an interesting route on the River Saone between Dijon and Lyon, France's second largest city and a dynamic destination in its own right. Libelulle moors in the very center of Lyon, providing a marvelous vantage from which to view and explore the city. Cruising on the River Saone through both Beaujolais and Burgundy wine areas is another lure. The congenial crew is led by a French chef and as on all Canal and Company barges, the ambiance is festive. Sightseeing includes a walking tour of Medieval Dijon, the pristine 14th century Hospice (Hospital) in the adorable town of Beaune, lots of wine tasting, and a visit to a chateau. Libellule anchors in attractive riverside towns, perfect places to stroll, shop and watch the world go by from a seat in a cafe!

Libellule

Barge Cruise Itinerary

Dijon to Lyon

On the Canal du Centre and River Saone

Saturday
Passengers who have taken our Optional Paris Transfer meet in the lobby of the Hotel Regina 192 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris (telephone 01 42 60 31 10) at 1:00 p.m. (1300) by 1st Class High Speed TGV Train to Dijon where a the Libellule's own private motor coach will take us to Libellule moored a short drive away in the village of St. Jean de Losne. Sip champagne as we welcome you on board and introduce you to the crew. Settle in on our cruise to nearby Seurre, with time for a lovely pre-dinner stroll around this pleasant town. Join us back on board for the first of many superlative meals.
For those transferring on their own meet us at the Dijon Train Station at 4PM. (1600) just opposite the Quick Restaurant at the station.

Sunday
After breakfast, drive to Dijon for a walking tour of this historic capital, including the Ducal Palace and lovely medieval district. Afterward, stroll the city on your own. See the many fine mansions that line the city streets and, if you choose, pay a visit to the Fine Arts Museum. We return to Libellule and cast off during lunch on a cruise through delightful pastoral scenery. Late this afternoon, we dock in Chalon-sur-Saône, birthplace of photography. Moor in the heart of the city, close to St. Vincent Cathedral and the medieval quarter, now a pedestrian zone.

Monday
After breakfast, we head for Beaune, center of Burgundy’s wine trade. Our drive follows the Côte de Beaune, whose villages read like a fine wine list: Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault, Auxey Duresses, Volnay, Pommard. In the walled town of Beaune, take a guided visit of the Hôtel-Dieu, a charity hospital founded in 1443. A masterpiece of late medieval architecture, it houses priceless art and is topped by a remarkable glazed-tiled roof. Afterward, explore on your own. After lunch and strolling time in Chalon, we cruise to historic Tournus, home to the Romanesque-style Collegiate Church of St. Philibert.

Tuesday
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, before visiting the famous perched village of Brancion and the castle of Cormatin. Return to Tournus for lunch, then explore the town. Back underway, we cruise through pastures populated with the famed white Charolais cattle that are native to this area. A mid-afternoon mooring in Mâcon leaves time for exploring, biking, or a quiet walk along the river.

Wednesday
This morning we visit the Beaujolais hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Grapes for exclusive wines grow in the northern hills, where limestone deposits give the wines extraordinary quality and body. Enjoy a private tasting before returning to Mâcon for lunch. This afternoon, cruise past several villages before anchoring in picturesque Trevoux, an attractive, partially fortified town and former capital of a local principality.

Thursday
Stroll through charming Trevoux before cruising into the chic northern suburbs of Lyon, the culinary capital of France. Entering the city by river affords views not available to those traveling by road, including elegant river front homes and the city’s oldest quarter. Take a guided walking tour of the Old Town followed by leisure time to explore France’s second city. Tonight, sit down to a gala farewell dinner.

Friday
After breakfast, transfer to the Lyon Perrache railroad station. Those taking our transfers board the first-class TGV train back to Paris. Our transfer services end at Paris Gare de Lyon.

Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. The route will run in reverse on alternate weeks. Contact The Barge Lady for reservations and more information about Barging in Burgundy on the canals and waterways of France Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

Libellule

Guest Book

"It was the most wonderful cruise we've had and we've always cruised on big ships. We especially enjoyed the services we got. Someone was always there to help us through th train stations and to see that our luggage was taken care of at each place. The crew was absolutely wonderful and the best. They were friendly, helpful and assisted us in every way. The chef was one of the best. We ate gourmet meals every lunch and dinner and we wanted to take him home. I can't say enough for the way they treated us and all of the passengers. We want to go back."
- David and Judy Waltier 2007

"Having barged previously, our expectations for Libelulle were high. We were not disappointed. From the markets along the quais in Lyon to our gala dinner the final evening, our days were filled with highlights. Our knowledgeable guide took us to towns large and small, to chateaux, and to vineyards. We thus had a variety of experiences. The amazingly hard-working crew provided a welcoming atmosphere. The personable chef excelled in presenting delicious and eye-appealing cuisine and...the wines were excellent!"
- Manse and Ellen Batchelder 2005

"The hospitality was impeccable: the crew knew our names immediately and went out of their way to accommodate our every need. The other guests were a lot of fun. We had great conversations! This was an ideal vacation."
- Chris and Barbara Garmon