'Prospérité'

Meet in Paris and transfer to ‘Prospérité,’ moored in the port of Dijon. A champagne reception awaits, with time to relax before a first gourmet dinner on board.

This morning, cruise to the village of Fleurey in the heart of La France profonde. The rest of the day is devoted to exploring the Côte d’Or wine area — including a visit to Clos de Vougeot, originally a winery built by 12th-century Cistercian monks.

Return to Dijon today to wander the stalls of the lively food market. Afterward, explore the medieval town center with its 14th-century Palace of the Dukes and half-timbered buildings. Later in the day, cruise deeper into the beautiful valley of the River Ouche, which is adorned with limestone cliffs and wooded hills.

Begin the eventful day with a short morning cruise. After lunch, travel to La Ferme du Poisset to learn about goat cheese and sample the farm’s fine product. Continue to Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, dramatically perched atop a hill overlooking the canal. This evening’s dinner is at the renowned Michelin-starred Restaurant Gastronomique in the château hotel of the 12th-century Abbaye de la Bussière.

As ‘Prospérité’ continues her leisurely cruise on the Canal de Bourgogne, there are ample opportunities for walking or cycling along the towpath — or simply relaxing in the hot tub on board. After lunch today, visit Beaune, Burgundy’s wine capital. Explore the remarkably preserved Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century hospital with a brilliantly colored Burgundian tile roof. Take time to relax in the picturesque town square before returning to your barge.

Cruise to your final mooring at Vandenesse-en-Auxois before returning to the Côte d’Or vineyards for a personal introduction to the winegrowers and a private tasting of the region’s wines. Then join fellow travellers for a festive on-board captain’s dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to your Paris hotel where your journey ends.