Magical Chateaux,
historical treasures, gourmet cuisine, renowned vineyards, enchanting
waterways, mild climate, pastoral landscapes ... All of this awaits
you on the waterways of France! Like the fine wines and food produced
here, this historic country should be savoured slowly and there
is simply no better way to enjoy France than to float through the
very heart of it aboard a luxury barge. To travel along France's
ancient waterways is to make contact with an era when life was altogether
less frenetic. Making your journey aboard the comfortable
and welcoming Meanderer helps to ensure a stress-free
and fun-filled voyage.
Originally
a Belgian "Spitz", The Meanderer was recently converted
to her current specification. With three ensuite cabins measuring
in excess of 125 square feet each and an outdoor heated spa-pool,
she is a well-suited vessel for exploring the Upper Loire. Meanderer's
Captain, an experienced host, and a crew of three ensure your enjoyment
while cruising along France's oldest canal. The flexible twin
or double bed arrangement and newly decorated, air-conditioned cabins
and saloon complement the spacious sundeck.
Upper
Loire Cruise Itinerary
The cruise
itinerary is designed to allow as much flexibility as possible.
The following is an example of
the tour
itinerary, but your hosts are happy to accommodate any specific
group requirements for charter bookings.
Sunday,
Day 1
You are collected from your Paris hotel for transfer by private
mini-bus to Meanderer. A Champagne reception and early evening
cruise await you.
Monday,
Day 2
During the morning you cruise to Montcresson. After lunch the excursion
program begins with a visit to the busy town and spectacular palace
of Fontainbleau, home to generations of French royalty.
Tuesday,
Day 3
Today's excursion takes you to Montargis with the week's best opportunity
to explore a busy market town, people-watch or shop for souvenirs
and exquisitely packaged confectionery from the famous Mazet Praline
shop. The afternoon cruise takes you to the charming village
of Chatillon Coligny.
Wednesday,
Day 4
This morning's excursion takes in the splendid 16th century Chateau
of St. Fargeau. On return to the barge, the afternoon cruise
to Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses includes a chance to walk the ancient
'staircase' of locks, which stand as a monument to the old canal.
Thursday,
Day 5
The daily excursion program continues with a visit to the town of
Gien. Set on the banks of the Loire river, the town holds
many attractions including the famous Faience Factory Museum and
Boutique, the Hunting Museum and the Chateau de Gien. You
return to the barge for lunch and a cruise to Ouzouer-sur-Trezee.
Friday,
Day 6
The afternoon excursion takes you to the world famous wine region
of Sancerre with the opportunity to sample the local wine and explore
the charming hill top village. Today's cruise takes in the
delightful splendor of the world's longest aqueduct, crossing the
River Loire.
Saturday,
Day 7
This morning, after breakfast, you depart for the return transfer
to Paris.
NOTE:
This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate
weeks, cruises will be in reverse direction.
Deck
Plan
(Larger
view)
Meeting Point
For groups
chartering the barge, we collect you from your hotel in Paris.
For individual cabin bookings we will specify a Paris hotel for
the pick up. Pick up is always at 2pm on Sunday.
Included in price
Cruise and
cabin accommodations for six nights (from Sunday evening dinner
through Saturday morning breakfast), transfers from the barge pick
up point in Paris and return, all meals, wines, open bar, use of
bicycles, and escorted side excursions.
Not included
in price
Cost of air
transportation to Paris, items of a personal nature, a suggested
5-7% gratuity for the crew, and trip
cancellation insurance (strongly recommended).
OnBoard@connoisseurstravel.com
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