Canal Cruising in Burgundy Wine & Fine Dining in the Heart of France

Dig deep in the heart of France and discover the finest in local wines and cuisine as you take a six-night cruise on the Canal de Bourgogne. Walk along the tow path, cycle into quaint villages, buy fresh cheese from the lockkeeper. There are private wine tastings in the Cote d'Or vineyards around Beaune and discoveries of private chateaux you encounter along the way.


  • Day 1: Paris / Dijon / Embark Cruise Luxury Peniche

    At 1:00 pm you are met in the lobby of the Paris hotel and transferred to the Gare de Lyon Station for the First- Class TGV (Train Gran Vitesse – High Speed Train). As you arrive Dijon, the Captain awaits on the platform to accompany you to the Luxury Peniche (a deluxe canal barge – we offer many from which to choose) at anchor in Dijon. Enjoy a champagne reception, an introduction to the crew and the first of many gourmet dinner s. (D)

  • Day 2: Fleury-Sur-Ouche Luxury Peniche

    Begin the journey into the heart of “La France profonde” with a morning cruise to the village of Fleury-sur-Ouche. The rest of the day is devoted to exploring the Cote d'Or wine area south of the canal. Drive through the gorgeous “Route des Grand Crus” vineyards, followed by a visit to Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. The original building was a 12th-century winery built by Cistercian Monks; the old wine presses are on display, as well as rooms where the monks lived and stored the wine. Return to your Luxury Peniche for dinner on board. (B,L,D)

  • Day 3: Gissey Sur-Ouche Luxury Peniche

    After breakfast, drive the short distance back to Dijon for the lively local food market, shop for antiques on rue Verriere or explore the medieval town center. The 14th-century Ducal Palace dominates the architecture of this historic town. In the afternoon, cruise further into the beautiful valley of the Ouche with its limestone cliffs, wooded hills and majestic chateaux looming in the distance. Dinner is at the Chateau de Gilly, an old priory converted into one of Burgundy's finest restaurants. (B,L,D)

  • Day 4: La Bussiere-Sur-Ouche Luxury Peniche

    Start the day floating through gorgeous scenery to La Bussiere, mooring near the gardens of an old abbey. This afternoon return to the Cote d'Or vineyards for a personal introduction to winegrowers and a special private tasting. There may be time for a visit to a chateau where the owner collects and displays antique airplanes! Dinner on board completes the day. (B,L,D)

  • Day 5: Point D'Ouche Luxury Peniche

    Walk the towpath, cycle into the passing towns or just laze on the deck as you continue your journey on the Canal de Bourgogne, completed in 1836. In the afternoon explore Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Tour the remarkable, perfectly-preserved Hospice de Beaune, the 14th-century hospital in use until the early 20th century. Shop for wine, gifts, tapestry pillows and accessories – or just sit in the square and enjoy life. Then back on board for dinner. (B,L,D)

  • Day 6: Vandenesse-En-Auxois Luxury Peniche

    Cruise past the dramatic village and chateau of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois perched high on a hill over-looking the canal. After a delicious lunch of Burgundian fare, return to explore this charming medieval town. A festive Captain's dinner ends the cruise in style. (B,L,D)

  • Day 7: Dijon / Paris En Route

    Transfer to the Dijon train station where you board the TGV train, arriving back at the Gare de Lyon Station in Paris around noon. (B)

  • Chateau Hotel Extension

    Vault-de-Lugny is hidden in a tranquil valley a short drive from Avallon and the famous medieval village of Vezelay. Surrounded by a moat, peacocks freely roam in the shadow of the 13th century stone walled chateau. There are twelve period accommodations outfitted with superb baths and all expected amenities. Owner Elisabeth Matherat-Audan takes great pride in personally handling many of the chateau's details and there is a wonderful informality that makes it feel just like home. Dine under a 400-year-old sycamore on the grounds and have dinners in the vaulted dining room. Road trips can be arranged to the nearby villages of Dijon, Beaune and Chablis. Contact us for details.

  • Hot Air Ballooning Extension

    Roger Bacon, the great 13th century English friar and philosopher, wrote that man could fly if he was fastened to a large hollow ball of thin copper, filled with liquid fire or air. As centuries passed, other dreamers postulated similar ideas but it remained for the Montgolfier brothers of France to return the dreams to reality. Since ballooning began in France and the climate and terrain of Burgundy promote excellent flying conditions, take this opportunity to try it while you are here. Flights last approximately one hour and are followed by a champagne celebration. Contact us for details.


2024 Summer Epicurean Expedition Cruising Mediterranean or Norwegian Sea Featuring Master Foodie Mara Papatheodorou

The High Seas, Canal & River Cruising Sample Itinerary