Day 1 :
You are met at 1:30 pm at Hotel Ampère in Paris and transferred to the elegant 'La Belle Époque' at Auxerre. After a champagne welcome, dine on board.
Day 2 :
Pass vineyard-clad hillsides on this morning's cruise to moor below Caves de Bailly. Then, visit St-Bris-le-Vineux with its medieval underground passages. A wine tasting here offers an introduction to the outstanding vintages in the cellars of Monsieur Bersan.
Day 3 :
Return to Auxerre today to explore the medieval town center and view its fine churches. This afternoon, cruise to Accolay, where you dine ashore at a local auberge.
Day 4 :
Cruise south through the Yonne Valley to the market town of Mailly-la-Ville. Then, take an afternoon excursion to Vézelay, one of Burgundy's most famous treasures, with its Roman Basilique Ste-Madeleine. There is time to browse in the craft shops and take in the views before returning to your barge.
Day 5 :
Cruise past the spectacular Saussois Cliffs, home to an international rock-climbing center. This afternoon, visit Château de Bazoches, home of Maréchal Vauban, Louis XIV's military engineer and siege director extraordinaire. The château's illustrious list of visitors includes King Philippe- Auguste and Richard the Lionheart.
Day 6 :
This morning's visit to Ferme de Joux provides insight into the art of foie gras. Cruise through the beautiful countryside toward Clamecy for a tour of the cathedral and a visit to the Logging and Barging Museum. There is time to wander through the narrow streets lined with ancient buildings and an opportunity for shopping before returning to the barge. Enjoy the Captain's farewell dinner this evening.
Day 7 :
Disembark after breakfast to transfer back to Hotel Ampère in Paris, where your tour ends.
Note: This route is run in reverse on alternate weeks.
FOR LARGER GROUPS
'La Belle Époque' can travel in tandem with 'L'Art de Vivre' to accommodate a maximum of 21 charter passengers.
