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'Belmond Lilas'
Saone River
Tour Description:
Sail gracefully between Montmerle-sur-Saône and Pontailler-sur-Saône aboard luxurious 'Belmond Lilas.' Hosting up to eight guests in a casual, welcoming atmosphere, the open and airy design boasts a decor that blends floral colors with natural linens, wood furnishings and handcrafted ironwork. Relax on deck, soaking up the sun beside the heated plunge pool or reclining in the shade of the canopy. Savor lunch served al fresco in the open-doored lounge and sit down to unforgettable gourmet dinners in the formal dining room. Go ashore to explore the Burgundian wine town of Beaune and visit historic Clos de Vougeot where Cistercian monks first made wine in the 12th century.
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Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
ITINERARYDay 1 - SUNDAY
Meet in Paris for a Private Driver Transfer to Montmerle-sur-Saône, where you join 'Belmond Lilas.' Once on board, enjoy a welcome reception, followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by your private chef.
Day 2 - MONDAY
After a breakfast of local specialties, cruise north to historic Tournus this morning. After lunch, take a scenic drive to Cluny to visit the medieval abbey, for centuries the largest church in the world. Return to Tournus for a delicious dinner on board your barge.
Day 3 - TUESDAY
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruise to the market town of Chalon-sur-Saône, followed by an excursion to the charming wine town of Beaune. Visit the magnificent 15th-century charity hospital, Hôtel-Dieu, with its stunning tiled roof followed by a private wine tasting. Dinner is ashore this evening at a charming local restaurant.
Day 4 - WEDNESDAY
Visit the pretty village of Rully and its 12th-century medieval fortress, whose owner guides you through his home, sharing the intriguing history of his ancestors. This afternoon's leisurely cruise takes you to Verdun-sur-le-Doubs.
Day 5 - THURSDAY
Relax this morning as your barge cruises upstream to St-Jean-de-Losne. After lunch on board, visit historic Clos de Vougeot, a famous château with ancient wine presses and cellar. Cistercian monks first made wine here in the 12th century. Return to 'Belmond Lilas' for another gourmet dinner on board.
Day 6 - FRIDAY
Visit Dijon today for a walking tour that includes the market, mustard shop and Ducal Palace. Enjoy free time for shopping or relaxing at a sidewalk café before returning to the barge for lunch. During the afternoon, cruise to Pontailler-sur-Saône while your chef prepares a gala farewell dinner to end the cruise week in style.
Day 7 - SATURDAY
Disembark after breakfast for a Private Driver Transfer back to Paris where your journey ends on arrival.
