Day 1 — Sunday
Arrival at St Léger sur Dheune
We await your arrival at St Léger on the Canal du Centre. Step aboard for a champagne reception as you meet the captain and crew. Tonight, you’ll dine deliciously on classic French cuisine prepared by your Chef.
Day 2 — Monday
Cruise to Chagny | Excursion to Château de Chamirey
Spend this morning at leisure as we cruise to Chagny. Step ashore for a stroll along the towpath, or keep up with the barge on a cycle ride. Lunch is served as the barge winds along the canal. After lunch, enjoy a visit to the family run wine estate Château de Chamirey. Here you will be given a tour of the vineyards and wine cellar, followed by a tasting of the fine wines. You will then return to the barge for dinner.
Day 3 — Tuesday
Cruise to Fragnes | Excursion to Beaune | Dinner at local restaurant
Rise for a delicious breakfast, followed by a morning relaxing onboard while the barge cruises the final section of the Canal du Centre. After a delectable lunch, visit the charming town of Beaune, taking in the wonderful architecture and sights such as the magnificent Hotel-Dieu, an ornately decorated 15th century hospital. This is followed by a private wine tasting before returning to the barge. Dinner this evening is served at a charming local restaurant.
Day 4 — Wednesday
Cruise to Verdun-sur-le-Doubs | Excursion to Chalons sur Saône and Chateau Rully for wine tasting
This morning you will set off with your guide to the pretty village of Rully. Take an exclusive tour of the 12th century medieval fortress. You’ll be hosted by the count of Rully himself— his ancestors have owned the fortress since its creation over 800 years ago. After lunch on-board, stop at the market town of Chalon-sur-Saône and alight to explore its quaint antique shops, stunning cathedral square and half-timbered buildings. You will then bid farewell to the Canal du Centre to join the majestic Soane River. A delicious dinner will be served on board this evening.
Day 5 — Thursday
Cruise to St Jean de Losne | Excursion to Château Clos de Vougeot
Spend a relaxing morning on the deck as you admire splendid views as the barge cruises towards our next location, St Jean de Losne. After a wonderful lunch on-board, you will visit the ancient Château Clos de Vougeot. The Cistercian monks began making wine here in the 12th century, and it is now the headquarters of the celebrated Burgundian wine society. You will then return to the barge for a delectable dinner whilst admiring this evenings mooring location.
Day 6 — Friday
Cruise to Pontailler | Excursion to Dijon
This morning you will enjoy a walking tour through Dijon; this historic city is home to the famous Maille mustard shop, a fantastic market and the Ducal Palace, the seat of the great medieval dukes of Burgundy. You will also have the opportunity to explore the area at leisure and dine at one of the many delicious cafés for lunch. Back on board, Chef prepares a sensational farewell feast for your final evening on the barge.
Day 7 — Saturday
Departure from Pontailler
Awake to enjoy an indulgent breakfast. After, the crew bids you a fond farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements.
Please note: this route is a sample only and may be subject to change. On alternate weeks Lilas cruises in the reverse direction.