Hirondelle

Pont Canal du Guétin to Digoin

Burgundy

The day to day itinerary described below is a sample of a typical cruise on the Hirondelle. However, on any one cruise, the moorings may change, there may be fewer or more excursions, the places visited may vary depending on the season and the passenger preferences. Because there are a limited number of passengers on any of our vessels the guide can tailor the itinerary in accordance with the passengers’ wishes.

Sunday – Paris to Nevers. Transfer to Pont Canal de Guétin.
Depart Paris, Gare de Lyon, on the TGV train in the afternoon. On arrival at Nevers station you are met by the guide who transfers you to the barge moored in Pont Canal de Guétin. A champagne reception welcomes you and gives you a chance to meet the crew. An evening cruise on the Canal de Latéral à la Loire will introduce you to the pleasure of canal cruising.

Monday - Cruise to Imphy (Chevenon).  Visit Nevers.
This morning, the barge cruises to Imphy, the site of a “pont canal” which traverses the river Allier. Imphy (Chevenon) is a small country mooring and a quiet place to walk or bicycle.  After lunch, enjoy a walking tour of Nevers, the capital of the Nivernais, with a private visit to the workshop of Mr. Bernard to see the master ceramic maker at work and a chance to buy some of the distinctive blue and gold faience.

Tuesday - Visit Château d’Aprémont and wine tasting. Cruise to Decize.
After breakfast, visit the 15th century Château d’Aprémont with its fabulous gardens set in a medieval village. Enjoy a wine tasting at one of our favorite vineyards in the Loire Valley. The barge will cruise from Imphy to Decize stopping at the little village of Avril-sur-Loire where you can visit the rural "Ferme d’Escargots" where you can sample one of France’s most famous delicacies!

Wednesday - Visit Bourbon -Lancy.  Cruise to Garnat-sur-Engièvre.
Today’s excursion is to the beautiful medieval town of Bourbon Lancy. Step back in time as your guide leads you through the medieval quarter with its authentic timbered houses and 14^th century Belfry which houses a unique automaton.

Thursday - Visit Chateau of St Aubin. Cruise to Diou.
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruise to Diou.  This afternoon, take a private tour of the chateau of St Aubin, a fine example of renaissance architecture with extensive grounds and kitchen gardens.

Friday - Cruise to Digoin. Visit La Clayette.
Cruise to Digoin and moor at the picturesque Pont Canal.  After lunch, enjoy a drive through the countryside to see La Clayette, its château and the specialty chocolate factory of M. Bernard Dufoux.  The master himself demonstrates the art of making chocolate, followed by a private tasting. Automobile enthusiasts may tour the vintage car museum where all the vehicles are for sale.

Saturday - Le Creusot - Paris.
After breakfast disembark the barge and transfer to the Le Creusot rail station. Return to Paris (Gare de Lyon) on the TGV where you are met by our representative who will assist you with your luggage.

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