Sunday - Auxonne
Board the barge in Auxonne for your relaxing cruise along the River Saône and through Burgundy. A champagne reception welcomes you on board and gives you a chance to meet the crew. Later in the evening, enjoy your first gourmet dining experience on board.

Monday - St-Jean-de-Losne
Absorb the beauty of the French countryside on a leisurely morning cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board as the barge winds its way down the River Saône. Alight afterwards for a drive down the celebrated Route des Grands Crus, passing through the famed villages of the Côte d’Or. Stop to visit the historic Clos de Vougeot, where Cistercian monks first began making wine in the 12th century. The ancient château is now the headquarters of the celebrated Burgundian wine society, the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, and still houses the ancient cellar and wine presses from medieval times. Afterwards, enjoy a private wine tasting at a reputed local producer, before returning to the barge for a divine dinner.

Tuesday - Cruise to Chalon-sur-Saône
This morning, savour the scenery on deck as your barge glides downstream to the pretty market town of Chalon-sur-Saône. After a delicious lunch on board, arrive in Chalon and disembark to visit Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Enjoy a private tour of the magnificent 15th-century Hotel Dieu, a splendidly decorated charity hospital which represents both the history of Burgundy and the story of its wine. There will be time to explore the charming cobbled centre and its enticing shops, as well as a visit to Joseph Drouhin's cellar, where the King of France and the Duke of Burgundy used to store some of their precious wines.

Wednesday - Cruise to Tournus
After breakfast, relax on board and soak up the picturesque Burgundy landscapes as you cruise along the River Saône to Tournus. After a sumptuous lunch on the barge, alight for a scenic drive to the Benedictine Abbaye de Cluny, for centuries the largest church in the world. Admire this masterpiece of Romanesque art, whose influence spread throughout the western Christian world. In the evening, sit down to dinner at a fabulous local Michelin-starred restaurant.

Thursday - Cruise to Montmerle
Relax this morning as the barge sets off for Montmerle, continuing its journey south. Your chef will prepare a delicious lunch for you to enjoy on deck. After arriving at the pretty riverside town of Montmerle, your guide will accompany you to the splendid Château de Fléchères, built in 1630 and set in 80 acres of parkland. Enjoy a private tour and time to wander around the grounds. Return to a
late-afternoon aperitif and a gourmet dinner on board.

Friday - Cruise to Lyon
An early morning cruise gets you to your final destination, Lyon, in ample time to explore. France's second city is celebrated for its culture and gastronomy. Dominating the skyline is the ornate Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Your guide will take you on a walking tour to discover the hidden "traboules" of the old town, the Roman remains and painted walls. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure to peruse the city's top-quality stores and chic boutiques. Back on board, your chef is busy preparing an exquisite farewell feast.

Saturday - Lyon
After breakfast, your crew bids you farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you back on board soon.

Note: In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary to alter the route without prior notice. The cruise is in the reverse direction on alternate weeks.