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'Panache'

Alsace-Lorraine



Tour Description:

Cruise aboard 'Panache' to the German-influenced French region of Alsace-Lorraine. Make sure to relax in the on-deck hot tub while you take in the passing scenery of this fascinating and historic part of Europe.

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Dates & Pricing



ITINERARY

Day 1: Sunday
You are met in Strasbourg and transferred to the barge, where the crew welcomes you on board with a glass of Champagne. You have time to take a walk or bicycle ride before having dinner on board.

Day 2: Monday
After breakfast, embark on a tour of Strasbourg, stopping to visit the 12th-century Gothic cathedral. You also have time to do some shopping and explore the pedestrian area of La Petite France before returning to the barge for lunch. Afterward, cruise past lovely forested areas to the picturesque Alsatian village of Waltenheim-sur-Zorn.

Day 3: Tuesday
Cruise to Saverne, a village with a history that dates back 22 centuries to the time of the Gauls. Moor at the foot of Château de Rohan, the former home of the bishops of Strasbourg. After lunch, take a scenic drive through the Vosges hills and along the Route des Grands Crus, stopping for a private wine tasting of Gewürtztraminer, Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Day 4: Wednesday
Wander the narrow, picturesque streets of Saverne with your guide and visit the 11th-century Château du Haut Barr, a majestic castle with a Roman chapel and Gothic choir. This afternoon, 'Panache' cruises to Lutzelbourg to moor at the foot of 12th-century castle ruins. Dinner is ashore this evening at Restaurant des Vosges, overlooking the canal and river.

Day 5: Thursday
Early this morning, visit a local bakery to watch the pâtissier at work. After a short cruise, stop to learn about glassblowing techniques at an artists' workshop before 'Panache' ascends the Incline d’Arzviller boat “elevator.” This unique lock allows a barge to glide effortlessly up or down the mountainside using a sophisticated system of weights and balances. Moor near Arzviller for a short excursion to the mountaintop village of La Petite-Pierre, with its medieval castle. Later, visit the René Lalique Collection with its more than 500 pieces of Art Nouveau and Art Deco glassware. Nearby is the World War II battleground of Wingen-sur-Moden.

Day 6: Friday
In the town of Sarrebourg this morning, see Chagall's famous stained glass window depicting the tree of life. Return to the barge for an unforgettable candlelit meal while the cruising through the two Arzviller tunnels to the final mooring at Xouaxange. This evening, 'Panache' hosts a gala farewell dinner.

Day 7: Saturday
After breakfast on board, return to Strasbourg.