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Check-in Time / Location Mid-Morning in Paris
Travel from Serignac to Castets-en-Dorthe on the Canal de Garonne and River Garonne
*Your cruise may operate in the opposite direction.
Board Alouette, your exquisite floating palace for the week ahead. Enjoy a warm welcome and chilled champagne in the company of your dedicated crew and guide as you take in the 360-degree views on deck. Chef is busy preparing your first feast of the cruise, a spread of vibrant dishes crafted from intensely flavorful ingredients. As delicious wines are uncorked, raise a toast to the start of a sublime vacation.
Awake to a beautiful day on the water and a breakfast of local delicacies. Then, disembark to explore the elegant 18th-century Château de Lamotte Bardigues, where we’ll enjoy an exclusive guided visit led by the resident Countess herself. Before heading back to the Alouette, we’ll also discover the charming hillside village of Auvillar, dating back to the 15th century and officially recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France. This afternoon, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Canal de Garonne. After mooring, relax as drinks and dinner are served onboard.
After breakfast, your guide takes you to Armagnac region for a guided visit and exclusive tastings of the local “brandy” and Floc de Gascogne. Afterwards, discover the historic town of Nérac and its impressive castle, once the residence of King Henry IV of France. Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise along the sun-dappled canal. In the months of July and August, visit the Damazan night market, where a lively summer vibe includes musical entertainment to enliven proceedings as you browse. Tonight's dinner party is served onboard.
Relax on deck with a freshly brewed cup of coffee during today's short morning cruise. Then, prepare to enter Sauternes heaven at Château d’Yquem. Set in a quiet, rural location, this 400-year-old château produces one of the world’s most coveted and celebrated sweet wines. Enjoy a fascinating tour to discover the secrets behind this legendary wine, followed by a tasting that will captivate your senses. Upon returning to the Alouette, freshen up for dinner at a delightful bistro ashore. Bon Appetit!
After breakfast, and embark on a journey to the world-renowned village of Saint-Émilion. Visit one of the area's prestigious châteaux and sample its famous red wines. Enjoy luncheon ashore in a charming auberge, followed by a guided tour of Saint-Émilion and some free time to explore this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage town. Return to the boat in the late afternoon and enjoy a beautiful cruise to Moulin D’auriol. Socialize with canapes and cocktails in the salon as Chef puts the final touches on tonight's dinner onboard.
This morning, bid farewell to the canal as Alouette slips onto the majestic River Garonne for your final cruise. This afternoon, your Tour Guide will take you to the Pessac Leognan region to discover one of Bordeaux’ most prestigious appellations. After swirling and savoring the region's signature elixirs, return to Alouette where Chef is creating a lavish Farewell Feast, commemorating your week in the Southwest of France in sumptuous style.
Checking out no later than 9:00 am, after breakfast you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.
Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions.
“Perfect in every detail! The crew were delightful, talented, knowledgeable and charming. Chef Joe’s recipes were beautifully presented with exquisite flavors — better than any restaurant we experienced in Paris. Our cabin was extremely comfortable and beautifully designed. There is nothing we could say about our cruise that was anything but perfect.”
– Stanley B, Alouette
Are you ready to discover the cultural treasures
of Bordeaux?
