The Waterways of Burgundy

London to Dijon

We meet in St Pancras at our dedicated Departure Office ahead of our Eurostar journey to Paris. From here we continue to Dijon by high-speed rail where we board our hotel barge, the MS Jeanine.

Cruising to Longecourt-en-Plaine

Dijon was first established as a settlement under the Romans, but was only ever of minor importance and had no established trading reputation. But in 1032, Robert the Old became the first Duke of Burgundy, and proclaimed Dijon as his capital. In this privileged position, the city enjoyed vast wealth and power and developed a rich cultural heritage.

Dijon was then situated on the 'spice route', and became known for its popular gingerbread and eponymous mustard. As the gateway to a number of vineyards, Dijon was also famous for the many wines produced in the Burgundy region. We delve into the history of this delightful city on a guided tour that includes sights such as the Palace of the Dukes and Notre Dame church. Afterwards we set sail for Longecourt-en-Plaine, our mooring point for the night.

The Grands Crus Wine Circuit

The Jeanine picks up the Grands Crus Wine Circuit today, and we disembark for an excursion to the six villages in the area that produce the finest Burgundy wines. The 'road of the great wines' runs from Dijon to Santenay, and the route is punctuated by a collection of vineyards and attractive towns.

Sailing to Gray

Continue sailing through verdant landscapes as our barge makes its way along the Petite Saône Canal to the town of Gray today. Perhaps relax on board and socialise with your fellow sailing companions as you soak up the scenic views. Alternatively you might like to take one of the available bikes for a gentle ride along the canal's banks.

Gray and on to Savoyeux

Disembark this morning for a guided tour of Gray, a riverside town with a history that dates back to the 7th century. The centre is a jumble of period houses from across the decades; here 18th century architecture sits happily, and quirkily, alongside 12th century fortifications and Baroque style chapels from the 1600s. The rest of the day is spent making the leisurely journey to Savoyeux, arriving early this evening.

Port-sur-Saône

Our day begins with a guided excursion to Champlitte's medieval castle. Occupying an important defensive position on the boundary line between both the Duchy and County of Burgundy, the castle has been a strategic stronghold as well as family home in its later years. The impressive external structure is complemented by the rustic décor, almost provincial in style. Tonight a special gala dinner is served, helping us celebrate such a memorable cruise.

Return to London

Disembark after breakfast today, meeting your Tour Manager for the return journey to Paris where we join Eurostar service back to London St Pancras International.

Included in your Tour

Dijon

Your time here is spent exploring this historic destination on a guided tour. Explore the Parliament District and experience the quaint medieval streets that snake across the city.

Grands Crus Wine Circuit

The 'road of the great wines' provides an excursion into the heart of France's famous Burgundy wine country. Wend your way past verdant vineyards and quaint, historic towns on a journey through the heart of one of the most revered wine routes in the world.

Gray

Enjoy a guided tour of this attractive town, well off the tourist track, and uncover the history of this Gallo- Roman settlement that surely lives up to its translated name of illustrious.

Medieval castle at Champlitte

A listed historical monument since 1909, this castle is also home to the compelling Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions .

Please Note

Please note: Our sailings on 30th May and 13th June operate a different itinerary. Sailing from Dijon, excursions are included to Longecourt-en-Plaine, the Grand Crus Wine Circuit, St Jean de Losne, Chalon sur Saone, a hike to the Cirque du Bout du Monde, Santenay, and St Leger sur Dheune. Please call for more details.

Departure Times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We will write to you around 10 weeks before your departure date with the precise meeting times for your tour group.