Absolute2
Burgundy Cruise

Joigny to Mortargis

Departing every Sunday between June 4 and October 22

Tuesday, DAY 1 Joigny 
We meet at Le Parc Sofitel Demeure in Paris at 2:00 pm and then transfer to the Absolute2, moored in Joigny. After a welcome drink and an introdution to the barge, there is time to take a walk through the medieval streets of this old market town, before our first dinner onboard. 

Wednesday, DAY 2 Joigny to Villeneuve-sur-Yonne
A short drive takes us to the wine area of Chablis. Here we visit the town before pausing for a private tour and wine tasting at a family run 11th century cellar. In the afternoon we cruise down the River Yonne to the pretty village of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne. 

Thursday, DAY 3 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne to Sens
This morning we visit Auxerre, the historic capital of lower Burgundy and one of the loveliest towns in France. Renaissance houses surround the Galliarde clock tower, a city landmark since 1483 and the abbey church and cloisters of St. Germain are just a short walk away. We return to the boat for lunch and an afternoon cruise to Sens. 

Friday, DAY 4 Sens to Moret-sur-Loing
Sens is dominated by the Cathedral of St. Etienne which was the first Cathedral built in the Gothic style (circa 1140) Thomas Becket spent time here in exile from England and the Cathedral is justly famous for its stained glass windows. This afternoons cruise on the River Seine brings us to the picturesque village of Moret-sur-Loing made famous in the paintings of Alfred Sisley. 

Saturday, DAY 5   Moret-sur-Loing to Nemours
The day begins with an excursion to the Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte and its fabulous gardens by Le Notre (of Versailles fame) Some 20,000 workmen were employed in the construction of this magnificent 17th -century masterpiece, designed by Le Vau and decorated by Le Brun. From now on we cruise on the Canal de Loing, a perfect opportunity to cycle or stroll along the tow path alongside the barge to our mooring at Nemours.

Sunday, DAY 6  Nemours to Montargis
After breakfast, a scenic drive through the forest brings us to the Chateau of Fontainblue. Known as the 'House of the Centuries', every French Monarch since Francois 1 to Napolean 111 has left his mark on this magnificent chateau. We carry on cruising during lunch and through the afternoon to our final mooring at Montargis situated at the beginning of the canal de Briare. Completed in 1642, this is the oldest canal in France. Tonight we celebrate with a special farewell dinner.

Monday, DAY 7  Montargis to Paris
After breakfast, we disembark and transfer you back to your hotel in Paris where your tour ends.

Golf Charters ( Joigny - Montargis): In France we have the best selection of golf courses. Golf Charters are always available at a cost of $27,500 ($29700 high season) when chartering 8 passenger Absolute2. Prices include golf fees, meals at golf clubs and transfers. Golfing is also possible on hotel departures on own expense.