Burgundy Canal Cruise

Upper reaches of the Burgundy Canal – Sample Itinerary from Tonnerre to Pouillenay

Sunday Guests are met by the Captain, Earl. Between 4 and 5 PM at the arrange meeting point. Warm welcome on board with aperitifs, and gentle cruise through the countryside and an introduction to the manual locks. Whetting your appetites for dinner and the days to come. Tonight we will moor in the chateau town of Tanlay.

Monday The excursion this morning is to the Caves of Bailly, makers of the local and delicious sparkling wine. The caves are fascinating, huge, carved by man deep into the hill over the centuries, and maintain the perfect temperature for wine making. This afternoon we cruise to the village of Ancy-le-Franc.

Tuesday A short distance from our mooring point is the Chateau d’Ancy-le-Franc, our visit for today. This opulent renaissance chateau has been beautifully restored and is a delight to see. After lunch we cruise to the small village of Ravieres, a good place for a stroll with its magnificent church dating from the 12th century.

Wednesday In the morning, we visit the town of Chablis, world renowned for it delicious white wines. We will visit wine makers, with tastings including Premier and Grand Cru wines. Lunch will be taken ashore today at a delightful restaurant. Our afternoon cruise will take us towards the town of Montbard.

Thursday The Abbey of Fontenay is our visit this morning. The abbey is a UNESCO world heritage site, it has been restored to its 12th Century appearance, situated in a green a beautiful valley, with elegant gardens, this really is a historic treasure. After lunch, we will continue our cruise, and start our climb up the valley toward Venarey les Laumes. Tonight’s dinner will be taken ashore, another gastronomic feast.

Friday We visit the medieval town of Noyers, beautifully located on the riverbank, with half-timbered houses, picturesque streets and tiny squares. We pass through Epoisse, famous for its cheese, for a tasting before returning to Colibri for the final leg of our cruise. This afternoon we continue our climb up the valley, with magnificent views, mooring in the village of Pouillenay. Farewell dinner aboard.

Saturday Leisurely breakfast, and transfer between 10 and 11am to nominated drop of point.

Note This is a sample itinerary, and we would be delighted to customise our itinerary to enhance your cruise and visits.

About Canal de Bourgogne

The Burgundy Canal (French: Canal de Bourgogne) is a canal in Burgundy in central eastern France. The construction began in 1727 and was completed in 1832. The canal is 242 km long, with 209 canal locks, and connects the River Yonne to the River Saône.