New for 2012, departing on 1st and 8th July, is the Wine Discovery Cruise aboard Napoleon that will take guests on an insightful journey to the magnificent vineyards situated between Tain l'Hermitage and Chalon-sur-Saône in the Rhône Valley.
Those with a love of great wine will be introduced in depth to this celebrated region, the home to Côtes du Rhône, Beaujolais and Pouilly Fuissé, to name a few.
Whilst on board and admiring the incredible views, guests will be joined by local wine experts who will work with the chef and pair fine wines to teh gourmet delicacies. On the final evening, there will be an exclusive visit to the Drouhin-Laroze estate in Gevrey-Chambertin where a traditional Burgundian feast will be prepared and served in the family cellar, following a private tour and introduction to the wines.
Sunday - Chalon-sur-Saône to Tournus Depart Paris by our luxury transfer service from your hotel direct to the barge moored in the scenic town of Chalon-sur-Saône. On arrival you are welcomed on board by the Afloat in France crew with a champagne reception. The boat will now cruise south on this beautiful river to the pretty town of Tournus, our overnight mooring for your first evening on board.
Monday - Cruise to Macon Visit Beaune and the Route du Grands Crus
This morning visit Beaune, capital of the wine region of Burgundy, for a tour of the famous Hôtel Dieu, Hospices de Beaune, followed by a special wine tasting at Drouhin. The town's tiny centre has hardly changed through the years; a circular boulevard runs round its former rampants, many of which still stand. Within, there is a dense maze of narrow old streets. We return to the barge along the magnificent Route du Grands Crus, you will pass through Pommard, Meursault and Montrachet, before rejoining the main road to Tournus. A late lunch is served on board while cruising to Macon.
Tuesday - Cruise to Montmerle Visit Pouilly-Fuissé vineyards and wine tasting
This morning we explore the area bordering the Maconnais wine region. We continue our journey through these ever changing wine regions to the charming village of Pouilly-Fuissé. Under the backdrop of the Rock of Solutré, this area almost exclusively produces Chardonnay grapes, the vineyards make up part of this breathtaking landscape where limestone and heavy clay combine to create a unique terroir. We take the opportunity to taste the wonderful wine of this region with a local producer. We return to the barge for lunch and enjoy the cruise this afternoon to Montmerie. Tonight, we invite a local wine expert to join us for dinner. He will introduce some of his favourite wines of the region and explain the importance of his choices over a special menu created around his selection of wine.
Wednesday - Cruise to Lyon Beaujolais region area and wine tasting
Montmerle is situated in the heart of the famous Beaujolais wine region. This morning we take a scenic drive into this wonderful wine country. Rolling hills are dotted with vineyards as far as the eye can see. We make our way towards Oingt, a cobblestone village which is listed as one of the prettiest in France, where we enjoy a wine tasting at a small traditional family winery. Returning to the barge for lunch we set off towards the magnificent city of Lyon where we will be moored for the night. After dinner, perhaps walk over to Vieux Lyon, the old part of town, just a few minutes from the boat.
Thursday - Cruise to Condrieu Visit Lyon
Today we visit Lyon - France's second city. Dominating the centre is the splendidly ornate Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviére. Lyon's shops are renowned for their quality and include many chic boutiques. There will be time to explore, or to sit in one of the numerous pavement cafes and simply watch the world go by. We will then enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring a tasting menu paired with wines introduced by our expert guide. This afternoon we leave Lyon behind as we cross from the River Saône to the River Rhône. A new pace develops as the Rhône is a very busy waterway with much commercial traffic. Tonight we are moored in Condrieu- famous for its Viognier grapes, which flourish here on the slopes of the Upper Rhone valley.
Frdiay - Cruse to Tain l'Hermitage Visit the winery of Ferraton Pére et Fils
Cruising through the Vallée du Rhône is a delightful experience; the magnificent vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône seem to descend right into the river. During a delicious lunch on board we cruise through some of the most prestigious and renowned appellations in France - where the delightful Syrah grape grows so well. Our final mooring takes us to Tain l'Hermitage, surrounded by the sloping hills filled with slowly maturing grapes. This afternoon we visit Monsieur Ferraton's winery, just steps from the boat, for the last wine tasting of the week, featuring the Hermitage vintages. Meanwhile, the chef is preparing a wonderful dinner to celebrate the conclusion of your week on board.
Saturday - Disembark After breakfast, disembark the barge for the transfer to Valence TGV train station and your return to Paris, where you are met by the Afloat in France representative who will assist you with your baggage.
* Ports of call may vary based on itinerary and departure dates selected
* For more information on prices and availability on this special cruise, please contact us.
Cabin Pricing
Ports
Chalon-sur-Saone
Chalon is a sizeable port and bustling industrial centre on a broad meander of the Saône. Its old riverside quarter does have an easy charm, and it makes a good base for exploring the more expensive areas of the Cote d'Or. It's a thriving business centre, and trade fairs frequently take over the town, but more festive occasions are also an important part of its appeal and good reasons to stop if you're around at the right time. The pre-Lent carnival (February or March) features a parade of giant masks and a confetti battle, and there's a national festival of street artists and theatre in July.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 100kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Maison de Vins (Wine House), Niepce Museum, Chalon Rose Garden
Lyon
Two thousand years of history have left their mark on the cityscape. Lyon's rich heritage resources reflect the different eras and tell the story of the city. Lyon's listing by UNESCO as a World Heritage site gives recognition to two exceptional features: "continuity of urban development" -the listed site covers a territory of 500 hectares (1235 acres) where the entire history of the city can be seen, from the founding of the Roman city of Lugdunum. And as "an outstanding illustration of city planning over the centuries" in this continually populated and active territory.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 7kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Lyon National Opera House, Tete d'Or Park, Fourviere Hill, Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
Afloat in France - Napoleon Barge Cabin Info
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Afloat in France - Napoleon Barge
Europe's finest river cruiser, the Napoleon combines the luxury of a hotel by Orient-Express with the friendly ambience of a country inn. Voyage along the River Rhone while reclining on deck or seated in the lavish salon, then step out into sun-drenched landscapes that inspired Cezanne and Van Gogh.
Time melts away as you gaze on unsurpassed views of the French countryside. Endless vistas of tiled roofs, historic monuments, lavendar fields and olive groves are all typical of this part of Provence, a region with a sophistocated culture dating back to Roman times.
Excursions lead to the wine region of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and the delightful towns of Avignon and Arles. Visits to St Remy, birthplace of Nostradamus and the ancient sites of Pont du Gard and Glanum are also part of the action packed agenda.
The Napoleon can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests on three spacious levels. A sun deck with Jacuzzi and exercise equipment is located at the top deck. The main deck contains the salon, dining room and one state cabin. On the lower deck you will find the remaining five guest cabins. The boat is airconditioned throughout.
Facilities
Peaceful hours lounging by the sundeck can be interspersed with lively excursions ashore. Bikes are stored on board, ready for a gentle peddle to a nearby country market.
On board facilities include:
Air conditioning
Games
Bose iPod docking station
Bicycles and Maps
Tennis Rackets and Balls
Hifi/Stereo (in Salon)
Intercom
Piano (keyboard)
Shaver Socket 110-220V (converter available)
Hairdryer
Television (in cabin)
DVD (in cabin)
Writing desk
Guest computer with Internet access (in Salon)
Onboard Services
Mail Service/Stamps for sale
Newspaper
Photo film for sale
Souvenirs
Telephone
Guest Computer with Internet access (in Salon)
Safe - one central for Barge
Offboard Services
Dry Cleaning
Hair Dresser
Religious Services
Restaurants - reservations can be made
Doctor/Dentist/Nurse
