'Hirondelle' - Marne River & Marne Canal

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'Hirondelle'

Marne River & Marne Canal



Tour Description:

Live graciously on 'Hirondelle' as you discover the essence of the Champagne region. Explore the sobering sites of World War I. Visit historic Reims, the centuries-old place of French coronations. And — of course! — tour Épernay with exclusive tastings of its most famous effervescent wines. Return to your cozy barge each evening for a gourmet dinner and perhaps a nightcap under the stars.

Map for 'Hirondelle' - Marne River & Marne Canal
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Dates & Pricing



ITINERARY

Day 1 - SUNDAY
Meet in Paris for a Private Driver Transfer to 'Hirondelle,' moored in Châlons-en-Champagne. Enjoy a reception as your crew welcomes you. Later that evening, enjoy a sumptuous gourmet dinner on board.

Day 2 - MONDAY
Tour Châlons-en-Champagne, visiting its gothic cathedral and the Cloister Museum at Notre-Dame-en-Vaux with its remarkable statuary. Then visit a local family-run Champagne house for a tasting.

Day 3 - TUESDAY
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.

Day 4 - WEDNESDAY
Visit Épernay to wander its Avenue de Champagne, an elegant street lined with prestigious houses and charming courtyards. Stop at Moét & Chandon for an exclusive tasting. Back on board 'Hirondelle,' unwind during the afternoon cruise to Courcelles, with dinner ashore at the celebrated La Briquette restaurant.

Day 5 - THURSDAY
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 where 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.

Day 6 - FRIDAY
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. Back on board the barge, your chef has prepared your gala farewell dinner, a fitting close to your wonderful week of cruising.

Day 7 - SATURDAY
After breakfast, a Private Driver Transfer to Paris marks the end of your journey.