L'Impressionniste

Meet in Paris and transfer to L'Impressionniste, moored in Fleury-sur-Ouche. A welcome reception awaits before dinner on board.

This morning, cruise along the enchanting canal with opportunities for walking or cycling along the towpath. After lunch, visit Clos de Vougeot, headquarters of the esteemed Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, whose annual awards are prized by local Côte d'Or wineries. After a wine tasting, rejoin the barge at Sainte-Marie-sur-Ouche.

Journey to Dijon on market day for a walking tour that includes the flamboyant Gothic-style Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, begun in the 14th century. Then set out on a leisurely afternoon cruise along the picturesque canal to La Bussière.

This morning, go ashore in Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, to explore its quaint shops and stroll the Bastion de l'Oratoire, ramparts built some 600 years ago by the region's first dukes. Visit the fascinating Hôtel-Dieu, a charity hospital dating from the 15th century, before proceeding to Domaine Chanson, a historic and top-producing estate, where you savor a private wine tasting and lunch on site.

Pass grazing white Charolais cattle on the morning cruise to Vandenesse-en-Auxois. After lunch, drive to Châteauneuf-en-Auxois to explore the medieval village with its hilltop castle and craft shops.

Cruise to the canal summit today, 1,250 feet above sea level. At mid-afternoon, visit historic Château de Commarin, for a private tour of the castle that includes a falconry demonstration. Return to the barge at Escommes and gather for a gala farewell dinner this evening.

Disembark after breakfast and return to Paris, where your program ends.