Napoleon: Lyon to St Jean

We welcome you aboard the barge in Lyon for a champagne reception. Meet the crew and settle in as we set sail along the River Saône. A cocktail cruise is the perfect way to celebrate your first taste of cruising as we glide at a gentle pace along Burgundy’s waterways. This evening your onboard chef serves a delectable dinner of classic French cuisine.

Breakfast is followed by a tour of Lyon this morning. As France’s second city Lyon is a vibrant hub of culture, history and gastronomy. Visit the ornate Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière with your guide for an exclusive tour, then spend the morning exploring the city’s renowned boutiques and charming pavement cafes.

On your return to the barge we set sail for Montmerle as you enjoy a sumptuous lunch. The afternoon is yours to unwind and watch the world go by from the open deck as we glide along the river.

Today we take a short drive to Odenas to enjoy the best of the Beaujolais with a wine tasting at Chateau de la Chaize.

Make your merry way back on board the barge as we cruise to Mâcon over an indulgent lunch. Take a short walk on shore in the afternoon to visit the Roche de Solutré an imposing geological formation with unrivalled views across Mâcon’s sprawling vineyards and the River Saône. We moor in Mâcon later this evening, a thriving market town nestled between the Mâconnais and Beaujolais vineyards.

Awake to breakfast served as we wind pass stunning views of Southern Burgundy on our way to Tournus. This afternoon step ashore at Cluny to visit the Benedictine Abbey, a vast, Romanesque masterpiece. Tour the abbey and grounds with your guide to discover the beauty of what was once the world’s largest church. The evening is spent at leisure as we make our way to our mooring in the pretty town of Tournus.

We cruise to Chalon-sur-Saône today, with a stop in Beaune. Indulge with a delicious lunch served in a charming local restaurant in the heart of the city. Your next stop is the Hotel Dieu, a magnificent 15th century charity hospital steeped in local history. Then on to explore Joseph Drouhin’s cellar, where the King of France and Duke of Burgundy used to store their favourite wines. A gastronomic dinner awaits on board as we continue on our way to Chalon.

This morning your guide hosts a walking tour of Chalon-sur-Saône. Discover a vibrant atmosphere at market day, the cathedral square boasts a variety of stalls for you to explore. Return to the barge as we continue along the River Saône for our final mooring in St Jean de Losne. Upon arrival wander over to the port and admire the many working pleasure barges as chef prepares a farewell feast for your final evening on board.

After breakfast the crew bid you a fond farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements.