Sunday - Chalon-sur-Saône.
A champagne reception welcomes you aboard and gives you a chance to meet the crew. Later, take a stroll into the beautiful market town and admire the cathedral square.
Monday - Visit Beaune. Cruise to Mâcon.
In the morning, explore Beaune, capital of the wine region of Burgundy, and visit the famous Hôtel Dieu, Hospice de Beaune. After some shopping time return to the boat for lunch and relax during the afternoon cruise to Mâcon along the Saône river, a fast flowing important river. We pass by Tournus before arriving into the mooring at Mâcon. This thriving market town is the gateway to the Mâconnais wine region.
Tuesday - Visit Cluny. Cruise to Montmerle.
This morning visit the Abbey of Cluny, for centuries the largest church in the world. The whole town was originally enclosed by fortifications, 2 of which remain today. It is a remarkable site and of great importance to the church. Return to the boat for lunch and cruise through the area of the Beaujolais. The wine from this region is famous for being drunk young and is made from the Gamay Noir grape. Tonight we are moored in the heart of the Beaujolais region in Montmerle.
Wednesday - Visit Château de Fléchères. Cruise to Lyon.
Today, visit the beautiful Chateau de Fléchères, built in 1630 and set in 80 acres of parkland. Return to the barge for lunch and then spend the afternoon cruising on the river toward Lyon where we moor for the night. This part of the river is very pretty and is a spectacular way to arrive into the city. After dinner perhaps take a walk into the old part of Lyon - 'Vieaux Lyon', just a few minutes from where the boat is moored, and enjoy a drink in one of the traditional style Lyonnaise bars.
Thursday - Visit Lyon. Cruise to Condrieu.
Lyon is France's second city with a wonderful cultural, historic and gastronomic centre. Dominating the city is the splendidly ornate Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. Lyon's shopping facilities are renowned for its quality, including many chic boutiques. After lunch in the city centre return to the boat and begin the journey on the Rhône. Here in Lyon the river splits and we leave behind the River Saône and now enter onto the River Rhône. Tonight's mooring is in the town of Condrieu.
Friday - Cruise to Tain. Visit Tain l'Hermitage.
Cruising the Vallée du Rhône is a delightful experience; the magnificent vineyards of the Côtes Rôtie and the Côtes du Rhône seem to descend right into the river. The final destination is Tain l'Hermitage in the heart of the wine region. Visit Mr Ferraton, a local wine producer and taste wines from his cellar. Visit the famous Valrhona chocolatiers and sample some of their delicious produce. Meanwhile the chef is busy on board preparing your farewell gala dinner.
Saturday - Tain l'Hermitage.
After breakfast, disembark the barge for your onward travel arrangements.
