Burgundy by River Barge

There may be no more beautiful way to explore the countryside villages of timeless Burgundy than from a river barge coasting the Saône River. Drift from one stunning landscape to another, stopping to roam the region’s famous vineyards, ride bikes through its vast forests, and indulge in its unforgettable flavours. Then head to Paris for two nights of discovery for all of your senses. Experience the France of your dreams from the inside out.

Day 1 Dijon
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Dijon
Enjoy an orientation walk in the morning to explore Dijon. Visit the Ducal Palace, the local market and the old town. In the afternoon, enjoy free time before transferring to the river barge and embarking the Danièle.

Day 3 Dijon/Longecourt-en-Plaine
Cycle to Gevrey-Chambertin, a small but well known Burgundy village. Enjoy wine tasting at a local winery and continue to Côte du Nuits before meeting the barge in Longecourt-en-Plaine. This mostly flat route is the best way to see quintessential Burgundy.

Day 4 Longecourt-en-Plaine/Auxonne
Spend this morning walking along the canal stopping in small villages and looking at the various locks. Enjoy the Burgundy canal as we walk a 10km (6.2 mi) stretch of the canal between Longecourt and St-Jean-de-Losne. Embark on the barge to continue towards Auxonne. Upon arrival, take a short train ride to the charming town of Dole for dinner and free time to explore.

Day 5 Auxonne/Seurre
Have a relaxing morning on board, or take some more time to wander around Auxonne. Continue on to Seurre with some free time to explore this quaint town on your own.

Day 6 Seurre/Verdun-sur-le-Doubs
Spend the morning relaxing on the barge. This afternoon, take in a presentation by a local winemaker and enjoy a horizontal tasting. Continue towards Verdun-sur-le-Doubs with free time to explore.

Day 7 Verdun-sur-le-Doubs/Fragnes
Enjoy a full day of biking through vineyards and villages along the Canal du Centre. Stop in the charming villages of Chagny and Santenay along the way. Enjoy wine tasting at the Château de Marsannay, followed by a stop in Meursault for an optional lunch before returning to the barge in Fragnes.

Day 8 Fragnes/Paris
Transfer to Beaune, the historic wine capital of Burgundy. Enjoy a tour with a docent, exploring the Hospices of Beaune, a charitable hospital that has been funded by the annual wine auction for over 155 years. Delve into history and discuss the relationship of the hospice with the powerful wine merchants of Burgundy. Enjoy some free time to explore before catching the train to Paris.

Day 9 Paris
Explore the historic covered Marché d'Aligre with a local chef and food expert. Rarely visited by tourists, this market is where locals come to shop for food. Meet vendors, enjoy tastings, and learn about the history of the market and the specialties offered here. The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own.

Day 10 Paris
Depart at any time.