Sunday, Day One: Couvrot
Board the barge in Couvrot, 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: Pogny
Relax over a leisurely breakfast and a morning cruise along the picturesque canal. After lunch on board, your guide will accompany you on a 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. Later, return to the barge for refreshing cocktails and a sumptuous dinner.
Tuesday, Day Three: Châlons-en-Champagne
This morning we continue our gentle journey along the canal. Take advantage of the unhurried pace to alight from the barge and stroll or cycle along the towpath. Today you enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on shore before your guide accompanies you on a visit to La Mains de Massiges, an important World War I site. Explore the chalk-filled trenches, built in wavy lines to thwart gunfire, and the nearby cemetery. Return to the barge for dinner.
Wednesday, Day Four: Vraux
Following breakfast, set off on a guided 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. You then return to the barge and set sail, admiring the beautiful scenery as you savour a delicious lunch. Enjoy an afternoon relaxing on board, followed by dinner.
Thursday, Day Five: Mareuil-sur-Ay
Spend a leisurely morning drifting along the canal. 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: Épernay
Today, after a relaxing morning and lunch on the barge, alight to visit Épernay, 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 before returning to the boat, where your chef has been preparing a fabulous 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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