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Check-in Time / Location 2:00 PM in Paris
Travel from Auxonne to Cusey on the River Saone and Champagne-Burgundy Canal
In the afternoon, our driver will greet you at the designated meeting point. Relax in our transfer vehicle to Grand Cru, moored in Auxonne on the River Saone. The Champagne-Burgundy Canal connects two of France’s most iconic regions. Our route offers subline cruising in the heart of rural France as well as excursions to important sights in nearby Burgundy. Enjoy a traditional champagne welcome and introduction to Grand Cru and her crew before your first of many gourmet dinners on board.
Grand Cru cruises this morning on the River Saone. As your world slows down, there’s time to notice small things: the smell of bakeries drifting from town or the flash of sunlight on tiled roofs. This afternoon our Tour Guide introduces the Medieval village of Bèze, criss- crossed by waterways. With its ancient riverside residences and picturesque wash houses, Beze is one of France’s most photogenic villages. Discover the Grottes (caves) and remains of the Abbey before returning to Grand Cru for cocktail hour and dinner.
This morning, Dijon offers a pleasurable assault on the senses. Preserved palaces and beautiful churches, recalling the reign of the Dukes of Burgundy, vie for attention with specialty boutiques, small cafes, and serene gardens. Shop, sip, and stroll your way through this small city brimming with authentic French life. Return as Grand Cru slips onto the peaceful Champagne-Burgundy Canal. Chef has been busy creating another epicurean dinner to be enjoyed onboard.
With our Tour Guide, encounter the best of Burgundy wine country. Starting in Beaune, where millions of bottles are still stored under cobblestoned streets, experience Hospice de Beaune, an immaculately preserved Medieval hospital. Then it’s on to Le Bistro d’Olivier Leflaive in Puligny Montrachet for a wine tasting, lunch, and cellar tour. Relive this elegant day over cocktails and dinner – and what about digestives while lazing under the stars in your hot tub?
This morning, as Grand Cru continues to cruise, relax on deck or explore the towpath and country lanes by bicycle . This afternoon, our Tour Guide introduces Chateau de Rosières. This fascinating castle, located just a few minutes from the canal, dates from 1321. Meet owner Bertrand Bergerot, who, with his youthful family, is restoring the castle and grounds; he’ll share his passion for Medieval architecture. Back on board, enjoy cocktails and a chef-driven dinner menu.
After a morning cruise, our Tour Guide chauffeurs you to Ferme de Montsaugeon. This farm produces goats milk cheese amongst other regional produce. Meet the goats and charismatic owner Valérie for a demonstration of the cheese making process, a cheese tasting, and her insights into local life. Back on board, Chef is creating a candlelit multi-course Farewell Dinner, ending your cruise in style.
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. Cruise will run in reverse direction on opposite weeks.
“The Grand Cru far exceeded our expectations. We can’t say enough about the crew! They were amazingly friendly, efficient, hardworking, charming and knowledgeable. The quality of the food, presentation, and explanation were exceptional. Cabins were spacious, well appointed, and immaculately maintained. We would highly recommend it to anyone!”
– Grand Cru guest
Are you ready to experience “The Good Life”
in Southern Burgundy?
