Sunday - Paris to Dijon
Depart Paris, Gare de Lyon, on the TGV train. On arrival at Le Cruesot station you are met by the Afloat in France guide and transferred to the barge at St Léger for your cruise through Burgundy. A champagne reception welcomes you on board and gives you a chance to meet the crew. Later that evening enjoy your first dining experience on board.

Monday - Cruise to Rully
Visit Château Marguerite de Bourgogne or Le Cruesot Summer Bobsleigh. A leisurely cruise on the Canal du Centre gives you a chance to savour the beauty of the French countryside, there are plenty of opportunities at the many locks to get off the barge and walk or cycle along the splendid tow path. Later, your guide takes you to Couches for a tour and wine tasting at the magnificent Château Marguerite de Bourgogne or alternatively visit the Summer Bobsleigh Park with its various runs and a pool. Return to the barge moored in Rully.

Tuesday - Cruise to Chalon-sur-Saône
Relax on board while the barge cruises the final section of the Canal du Centre before entering the last and very deep lock into the River Saône just north of Chalon-sur-Saône. The scenery changes from the close proximity of the canal banks to the expanse of this beautiful river. This afternoon enjoy an action afternoon at the Accro Branche - an outward bound park, there are several different levels, so fun for all the family. Challenge your climbing skills, as you climb high in the tree tops. Once back to Chalon perhaps take a walk in to town and discover its quaint antique shops, stunning Cathedral square and half timbered buildings. There is free time to enjoy the fine shops, or perhaps just to sit in one of the numerous pavement cafes enjoying an ice cream.

Wednesday - Cruise to St Jean de Losne
A somewhat different cruising experience today, through the lovely valley of the River Saône to the town of Verdun sur Doubs. We then visit the wonderful town of Beaune where we have lunch, and afterwards we visit the famous Hotel-Dieu, Hospice de Beaune. The town with its tiny centre, has hardly changed physically down the years, a circular boulevard runs round its former ramparts, many of which still stand. Within, there is a dens maze of narrow old streets. Tonight's mooring is at St Jean de Losne, the barging capital of France, take some time to stroll around the ports and see the many working barges and house boats that are moored here. A short distance from St Jean is the village of Brazey, where the family can enjoy some wonderful horse riding, enjoy trekking through the country side on horse back following the canal path or through the plains of the Saone valley.

Thursday - Cruise to Longecourt
Visit Dole Water Park
This morning the barge leaves the river and enters the Burgundy Canal. Enjoy the chance to walk or cycle along the towpath. After a wonderful lunch on board, we visit Dole, a pretty town with an interesting history. There is a fantastic water park located just outside the town and here we enjoy an afternoon in the water! There are various slides and pools for all ages. The barge is moored tonight near Longecourt.

Friday - Cruise to Dijon
Roller skating, Jungle Kid or Grotte de Beze, Magician
Today your guide takes you on a walking tour of Dijon to visit the market, Ducal Palace, the Grey Poupon mustard shop and covered food market. There is a roller skating park and go karts for the more adventurous. Also there is 'Jungle Kid' for smaller children, a covered area for climbing and adventure. Or perhaps you would prefer to visit the Caves at Beze, for an underground 'mini' cruise on a rowing boat, through the Caves. Tonight, the barge moors in the port of Dijon. We finish the week with entertainment from a magician before dinner, marvel at his tricks and be amazed by his skill! Meanwhile the chef is busy on board producing your farewell gala dinner.

Saturday - Dijon to Paris
After breakfast disembark and transfer to Dijon station. Board the TGV to Paris, Gare de Lyon, where you will be met by the Afloat in France representative who will assist you with your luggage.

Rates

Available for private hire only from April to October, up to 6 passengers can board the Fleur de Lys barge and discover the enchanting landscapes of Burgundy and River Saône, travelling through the Côte d'Or, famous wine region and Canal du Centre.

 

Cabin Only
The Fleur de Lys is available for Cabin Only hire during the months of April and May 2012. Prices are based on two persons sharing and are subject to availability.

 

What's included:

• Accommodation on board
• Breakfast, lunch and candlelit dinner each day
• Refreshments on board after excursions
• Wine with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board
• Sightseeing excursions, including entrance fees
• Use of bicycles
• Air-conditioned vehicle with guide for sightseeing
• All transfers as described in the itinerary
• Return private driver transfer service between Paris and the Fleur de Lys

* Quoted prices are from and may vary depending on the season. Private hire only up
   to 6 passengers.