'la Nouvelle Etoile'

Cruise to Einville this morning before returning to Nancy for a walking tour of the city that begins at the elegant Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flanked by handsome Baroque palaces and enclosed by ornate gold and wrought iron entry gates, the square is considered one of the grandest in all of France. The art nouveau movement originated in Nancy, and there is time to visit the Mus?e de l'Ecole de Nancy to see the fine collection. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' Barge B L D

After a morning cruise past tidy farms and pasturelands, drive to the privately owned Ch?teau de Fl?ville. This graceful Renaissance residence adjoins a 14th-century castle keep. The interiors are richly furnished with 18th-century antiques. Rejoin the barge at its overnight mooring in the peaceful village of Schneckenbush. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' Barge B L D

'La Nouvelle Etoile' continues its climb to the crest of the Vosges Mountains today, navigating two tunnels to the inclined plane of Arzwiller. This unique lock allows the barge to glide effortlessly up or down the mountainside using a system of weights and balances. In the afternoon, it is a short drive to a crystal factory where pieces are still blown by hand. Back on board the barge, continue cruising through the valley of the River Zorn to Lutzelbourg. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' Barge B L D

After breakfast, cruise past Saverne and its splendid red sandstone Ch?teau des Rohans. Later in the day, drive La Route des Vins d'Alsace to the old fortified town of Obernai with its 14th-century ramparts. Stop along the way to taste some of the best Alsatian wines at the cellar of a local winegrower. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' Barge B L D

Tour the busy port of Strasbourg, seat of the European Parliament and the capital of Alsace. Visit the city's historic core, the Petite France District, and the 11th-century Gothic cathedral with time for shopping and individual exploration. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' hosts a special farewell dinner this evening. 'La Nouvelle Etoile' Barge B L D

After breakfast, your tour ends in Strasbourg with transfer to a hotel, the train station or Strasbourg airport. B

Note: This route is run in reverse on alternate weeks.