Napoleon: ST JEAN-DE-LOSNE TO LYON

Board the barge in St-Jean-de-Losne for your cruise through Burgundy along the River Saône.

A champagne reception welcomes you on board and provides the perfect chance to meet your crew.

Soak up the serene atmosphere of the river with a cocktail cruise. Later that evening, enjoy your first dining experience on board.

This morning enjoy the scenery on deck as you weave downstream to the pretty market town of Chalon-sur-Saône.

After a delicious lunch on board disembark to visit Beaune, the historic wine capital of Burgundy. Take a private tour of the magnificent 15th-century Hotel-Dieu, a decorated charity hospital which encapsulates the history of the region.

Explore the charming town and its shops at leisure, with a chance to visit Joseph Drouhin's cellar. It was once used by the King of France and the Duke of Burgundy to store their wines.

After breakfast relax on board and savour the natural beauty as you journey to Tournus.

Lunch is served on board before you take a scenic drive to the famous Abbaye de Cluny, for centuries the largest church in the world. The whole town was originally enclosed by fortifications, two of which remain today.

This evening dinner is served at a charming local Michelin-starred restaurant.

Your cruise continues to Mâcon this morning, a thriving market town bordering Mâconnais and Beaujolais vineyards.

Enjoy lunch on board before disembarking to visit the Roche de Solutré, a picturesque site with superb views. Stop along the route to enjoy a wine tasting session in the village of Fuissé.

This morning take time to wander around Mâcon before the barge leaves for Montmerle-sur-Saône. Your chef will serve another fine lunch as you cruise along the river.

Later your guide will accompany you to the magnificent Château de Fléchères. Built in 1630 and set in 80 acres of parkland, take a private tour of this historic house and explore the grounds at your leisure.

On return, a late afternoon cruise takes us to the little town of Neuville-sur-Saône where we moor for the night.

An early morning cruise takes us to our final destination—Lyon, the second city of France.

Lyon is a cultural, historic, gastronomic, and commercial centre. Dominating the city is the splendidly ornate Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Your guide will take you on a walking tour split across the morning and afternoon, with lunch served back on board. You will discover the hidden ‘traboules’ of the old town, the roman ruins and the spectacular painted walls. There will also be time at leisure to explore the many great boutiques, renowned for their quality products.

Back on board, enjoy a farewell feast, specially created by the chef.

After breakfast, bid your crew goodbye as you disembark the barge for your onward travel arrangements.