Sunday, Day 1: Châlons-en-Champagne
Board the barge in Châlons-en-Champagne, where you’re welcomed aboard with an effervescent champagne reception, including a tasting session, and the chance to meet your captain and crew. Meanwhile, your chef is preparing your first gourmet dinner of the week.
Monday, Day 2: Vraux
Enjoy your first morning with a leisurely breakfast on board and admire the passing scenery along the canal. After lunch, alight with your guide for a tour of Châlons-en-Champagne, whose numerous attractions include the gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral, the Cloister Museum of Notre-Dame-en-Vaux with its remarkable statuary, and three glorious gardens. On the way back to the barge, stop for a tasting at a local family-run champagne house.
Tuesday, Day 3: Mareuil-le-Port
Disembark mid-morning and head to the splendid city of Reims, not just an important centre of champagne production but where some 34 French sovereigns were crowned. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro before taking the time to explore the beautiful gothic cathedral, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the bountiful shops. Later, return to the barge for a late-afternoon cocktail on deck.
Wednesday, Day: 4 Damery
Enjoy a morning visit to Epernay, the jewel of Champagne. Wander down the Avenue de Champagne, an elegant street lined with prestigious champagne houses and swish courtyards. Stop at Moët & Chandon for an exclusive tasting. Return to Hirondelle and unwind as you cruise towards Courcelles, our mooring for the night. Tonight you dine at the celebrated La Briquette restaurant.
Thursday, Day 5: Courcelles
This morning we continue our leisurely journey along the canal. The slow pace means you can easily alight from the barge to stroll or cycle along the towpath. After lunch on board, enjoy a charming drive to the picturesque abbey in Hautvillers where Dom Pérignon’s tomb lies and from where you gain spectacular views over the vineyards. Continue to the house of Champagne J de Telmont to spend a fascinating afternoon participating in their unique oenological workshop.
Friday, Day 6: Château-Thierry
Spend a relaxing morning on board. After lunch, set off on a picturesque drive to Belleau Wood, the site of a famous battle during World War I, when American troops halted the progression of the German army. Continue to the Aisne-Marne cemetery, containing the graves of 2,288 American soldiers. Back on board, your chef is preparing a delicious farewell gala dinner.
Saturday, Day 7 Disembark
After breakfast, the crew bids you farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you back on board soon.
This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks the cruise is in the reverse direction.
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