'Belmond Hirondelle'

Meet in Paris for a Private Driver Transfer to ‘Belmond Hirondelle,’ moored in Châlons-en-Champagne. Enjoy a welcome reception as your crew welcomes you. Later that evening, enjoy a sumptuous gourmet dinner on board.

This morning, tour Châlons-en-Champagne, visiting its gothic cathedral and the Cloister Museum at Notre-Dame-en-Vaux with its remarkable statuary. Return to the barge for lunch and an afternoon cruise, visiting a local family-run Champagne house for a tasting en route.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise this morning, followed by an excursion to the historic city of Reims, an important center of Champagne production. Visit the Cathedral, where some 34 French kings were crowned, and the Musée des Beaux Arts. Return to the barge for a late afternoon cruise with cocktails on deck, followed by another gourmet dinner.

Visit Épernay to wander its Avenue de Champagne, an elegant street lined with pretigious houses and charming courtyards. Stop at Moét & Chandon for an exclusive tasting with lunch ashore at the celebrated restaurant, La Briqueterie. Back on board 'Belmond Hirondelle,' unwind during the afternoon cruise to Courcelles, the overnight mooring.

Relax this morning as your barge cruises in style through scenic landscapes with opportunities to walk or cycle along the towpath lining the canal. After lunch on board, drive to the picturesque abbey in Hautvillers with its spectacular views over the local vineyards. It is here that Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk credited with inventing Champagne, is buried. Continue to the house of Champagne J. De Telmont for a unique and fascinating oenological workshop.

Cruise at leisure to Château-Thierry for a picturesque drive to Belleau Wood, site of a famous World War I battle where American troops halted the German army's progression. Also visit Aisne-Marne Cemetery to view the graves of 2,288 American soldiers buried there. Then continue to the enchanting medieval town of Chézy-sur-Marne for a taste of the famous Brie de Meaux at a local fromagerie. Back on board the barge, your chef has prepared your gala farewell dinner, a fitting close to your wonderful week of cruising.

After breakfast, a Private Driver Transfer to Paris marks the end of your journey.