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'Lilas'
Saone River & Canal du Centre
Tour Description:
Sail gracefully between St-Léger-sur-Saone and Pontailler-sur-Saône aboard luxurious '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 Pontailler-sur-Saône, where you join 'Lilas.' Once on board, enjoy a welcome reception, followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by your private chef.
Day 2 - MONDAY
Relax this morning as your barge cruises to Auxonne. 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 the barge by way of a local vineyard for a private wine tasting.
Day 3 - TUESDAY
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 Verdun-sur-le-Doubs along the majestic Saône River.
Day 4 - WEDNESDAY
Enter the Canal du Centre today through the impressive lock at Crissey. After lunch, visit the pretty village of Rully with its 12th-century fortress. The château's owner guides you through his family home to share the intriguing history of his ancestors. Tonight, dine ashore at a local restaurant.
Day 5 - THURSDAY
Continue cruising along the beautiful canal today, with excellent opportunities for walking or cycling along the towpath. Visit Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, for a private tour of Hôtel-Dieu. This charity hospital, dating from the 15th century, boasts a magnificent tiled roof.
Day 6 - FRIDAY
After a leisurely morning cruise to St-Léger-sur-Dheune, visit Château de Chamirey, a family-run wine estate in Mercurey. A tour of the vineyards is followed by a visit to the wine cellar for a tasting. Return to 'Lilas' for a gala farewell dinner to celebrate the cruise week.
Day 7 - SATURDAY
Disembark after breakfast for a Private Driver Transfer back to Paris where your journey ends on arrival.
