Sunday, Day One: Château-Thierry
Board the barge in Château-Thierry, 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: Courcelles
Following breakfast, accompany your guide on a visit 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. Return to the barge to savour a delicious lunch and then relax, soaking up the picturesque scenery as we cruise towards our evening mooring at Courcelles.
Tuesday, Day Three: Damery
Spend a leisurely morning on board as the barge winds its way past the glorious vineyards of this celebrated region. Lunch is served on board, after which a scenic drive leads you to the house of Champagne J de Telmont, where you spend a fascinating afternoon participating in their unique oenological workshop. On the way back, your guide will take you for a brief visit to the abbey in Hautvillers where Dom Pérignon’s tomb lies. Admire the spectacular views overlooking the vineyards before returning to the boat for dinner.
Wednesday, Day Four: Mareuil-sur-Ay
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 and stop for a private tasting at Moët & Chandon. Proceed to celebrated restaurant, La Briqueterie, for lunch. Return to the barge and unwind as we cruise towards Mareuil-sur-Ay, our mooring for the night.
Thursday, Day Five: Vraux
Having left the River Marne, we are now gliding along the canal. Take advantage of the slow pace and wide towpaths to alight for a walk or a cycle ride alongside the barge. After lunch, your guide will accompany you to the city of Reims, not just an important centre of champagne production but the place 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 dinner.
Friday, Day Six: Châlons-en-Champagne
After breakfast another treat awaits: a tasting at a local family-run champagne house. The final leg of our journey brings us to the picturesque town of Châlons-en-Champagne. Alight after lunch to explore attractions including the gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral, museum of the Notre-Dame-en-Vaux Cloister with its remarkable statuary, and three glorious public gardens. Back on board, your chef is busy preparing a 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.
This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks the cruise is in the reverse direction.
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