Sunday, Day One: 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 Two: Vraux
Following breakfast, set off on a guided tour of Châlons-en-Champagne, whose numerous attractions include the gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral, museum of the Notre-Dame-en-Vaux Cloister with its remarkable statuary, and three glorious gardens. You then return to the barge for your first cruise, admiring the passing scenery along the canal as you enjoy a delicious lunch. Disembark for a tasting at a local family-run champagne house before re-joining the barge for dinner on board.
Tuesday, Day Three: Mareuil-sur-Ay
Spend the morning relaxing on board. After lunch, your guide will accompany you on a guided tour of the splendid city of Reims, not just an important centre of champagne production but where some 34 French sovereigns were crowned. Explore the beautiful gothic cathedral, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the bountiful shops. Return to the barge for a late afternoon cruise and cocktail on the deck. Dinner is on board.
Wednesday, Day Four: 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. Proceed to celebrated restaurant La Briqueterie for lunch. Return to the barge and unwind on the cruise towards Damery, our mooring for the night. Dinner is served on board.
Thursday, Day Five: 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 scenic 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 Six: 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 Seven: 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.
CRUISE INQUIRY FORM
