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'Panache' – Canal Lateral a la Marne & Marne River
Tour Description:
At midsummer, ‘Panache’ cruises in France’s fabled Champagne region. Explore the vast underground cellars of Moët & Chandon with a tasting of its renowned vintages. Partake of a sumptuous lunch ashore at Château Les Aulnois with a private tour of the 18th-century manor house. On an excursion to historic Reims, visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral that hosted centuries of French coronations.
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Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
ITINERARYDay 1 - Sunday
Meet in Paris, and transfer to 'Panache,' moored in Châlons-en-Champagne. After a welcome reception, enjoy your first gourmet dinner on board.
Day 2 - Monday
Cruise along the Canal Láteral à la Marne this morning to a pretty mooring at Tours-sur-Marne. After lunch on board, visit Reims and its 800-year-old cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece was the site of French coronations. After time at leisure to wander the squares and elegant shopping arcades, return to your comfortable barge.
Day 3 - Tuesday
In Épernay today, visit Moët & Chandon. Founded in 1743, it is one of the best-known Champagne houses in the world. After a guided tour through the vast underground cellars, enjoy a private tasting in an elegant salon. During the afternoon cruise to Dizy, there are excellent opportunities for walking or cycling.
Day 4 - Wednesday
After a leisurely breakfast, visit Champagne Henriot, one of the oldest family-owned houses in the region, where a viticulture expert explains their grape selections. Continue to Château Les Aulnois for a private tour of the 18th-century manor house and a gastronomic lunch ashore, followed by an exclusive tasting.
Day 5 - Thursday
‘Panache’ continues meandering along the Marne River today to moor in the charming riverside town of Dormans. After lunch on board, visit the 42-acre Aisne-Marne American Cemetery at Belleau Wood, a somber reminder of the atrocities of World War I.
Day 6 - Friday
Enjoy a tour and tasting at La Maison Pannier today, a Champagne house with a labyrinth of medieval underground cellars. Then, cruise to Château-Thierry, surrounded by vineyards and strategically set overlooking the river. Tonight's gala farewell dinner celebrates the cruise week.
Day 7 - Saturday
After breakfast, transfer back to Paris.
