Impressionniste
St-Julien-sur-Dheune Chalon-sur-Saône
France is perhaps the most popular country for luxury barge cruises, due in no small part to the myriad waterways which cross not only its scenic countryside, but also some of its major cities. And while a Burgundy barge cruise may not be at the top of the list of options for holidaymakers visiting this European country, those who do choose to take a chance and go barging in Burgundy are sure not to be disappointed.
In fact, taking a Burgundy barge cruise down one of the region’s canals is a wonderful experience. Burgundy boasts some of the world’s finest wines with around 60,000 acres of sunlit vines and arguably the prettiest canals in France. The Burgundy Canal winds its way in smooth curves through the heart of renowned vineyards, medieval towns, elegant châteaux, magnificent cathedrals, picturesque villages and wonderful local markets. Barging in Burgundy guarantees our clients a wealth of sightseeing opportunities.
This is a region with a vast variety of cheeses, in all shapes, sizes and colours, strong in character or mild and fresh and all can be enjoyed with full-bodied red Burgundies, or perhaps with lighter white Chablis wines. Burgundy’s gastronomic tradition is certainly rich and diverse and a sedate Burgundy barge cruise along one of its delightful waterways will allow you to indulge in good food and wine: two of life’s essential pleasures.
Sunday, DAY 1 St-Julien-sur-Dheune
Guests are met in Paris or Dijon** and transferred by air-conditioned minibus to L’Impressionnsite. A champagne welcome and the opportunity to meet the crew, followed by dinner on board.
Monday, DAY 2 St-Julien-sur-Dheune to St-Léger-sur-Dheune
This morning, we begin our voyage through Southern Burgundy along the Canal du Centre through undulating countryside to moor at the little village of St-Léger-sur-Dheune. We descend a series of 11 locks while cruising past the villages along the way. After lunch on board, we visit the moat-encircled Château de Commarin, where we are lucky enough to enjoy a private tour with a majestic falconry display***, with the opportunity to meet Count Bertrand de Vogüé – the current resident and 26th generation of the de Vogue family to maintain continuous residence since the 13th century. Guests can then explore the regal interior, rustic stables, and surrounding gardens. Dinner on board.
Tuesday, DAY 3 St-Léger-sur-Dheune to Remigny
This morning, we cruise to the rural setting of Remigny, passing picturesque Burgundian villages such as the famous wine-producing village of Santenay. After lunch on board, we visit the 14th century Château de Germolles, the best preserved of the residences of the Dukes of Burgundy, with its ducal chapel, medieval wall paintings and romantic gardens Dinner on board.
Wednesday, DAY 4 Remigny to Rully
After breakfast, we set off on a drive through the slopes of the UNESCO-listed vineyards of the Côte de Beaune. Here, our expert guide will offer an insight into the production of the region’s finest premier and grand cru wines. We continue to Beaune – the capital of the Burgundy wine country, for a private tour and tasting at the renowned Domaine Chanson. The tour includes its medieval Bastion de l’Oratoire, a 15th century defence tower whose 25-foot-thick walls now maintain the perfect temperature for ageing wine. This is followed by a private gastronomic lunch in the domaine’s château. Afterwards, we visit the fascinating Hôtel-Dieu Hospice with time to explore the town. We then return to the barge for an afternoon cruise past the charming little town of Chagny, to our mooring near the village of Rully. Dinner on board.
Thursday, DAY 5 Rully to Fragnes
This morning, we continue our cruise along the Canal du Centre at a leisurely pace to moor at the village of Fragnes. After lunch on board, we visit the wall-enclosed vineyard of Clos de Vougeot, headquarters of the esteemed Chevaliers du Tastevin (translates as "Fraternity of Knights of the Wine-Tasting Cup"), who award a special prized label to the finest Côte d‘Or vintages every year. Here, we'll enjoy a tour of the iconic cellars. Continue along the ‘Route des Grands Cru’ through the Côte de Nuits to stop at the prestigious vineyard of Romanée Conti for a brief history on the significance of its wines. Dinner on board.
Friday, DAY 6 Fragnes to Chalon-sur-Saône
This morning, we take a walking tour of old Dijon, including a visit to the vivid flower and produce markets, mustard shops, and the impressive Notre-Dame de Dijon, or enjoy some excellent shopping time. After lunch, we'll make our final cruise of the week, passing through the last lock on the canal which lowers us an impressive 35 feet. We then head out onto the peaceful River Saône and turn downstream to our mooring at Chalon-sur-Saône with its elegant waterfront, imposing cathedral, and opportunities for some last-minute shopping. Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.
Saturday, DAY 7 Chalon-sur-Saône
After breakfast, guests are transferred by private chauffeured minibus to their choice of location in Paris or Dijon**.
Itinerary is subject to change. On alternative weeks, the cruise is in reverse direction.
Year 2026 Rates in US Dollars
ACCOMODATION |
VALUE |
REGULAR |
Charter 8 passengers |
$71,900 | $84,700 |
Charter max 9 pax |
$74,100 | $87,200 |
Charter max 10 pax |
$75,900 | $89,300 |
Charter max 11 pax |
$77,700 | $91,400 |
Charter max 12 pax |
$79,500 | $93,500 |
Jr Suite per person |
$7,690 | $8,950 |
Stateroom per person |
$7,090 | $8,290 |
Single supplement |
$2,600 | $3,000 |
DEPARTURE DATES |
RATE |
Mar 29; Apr 5, 12, 19 |
Value |
Apr 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 |
Regular |
Jun 7, 14, 21, 28; Jul 5 |
Regular |
Jul 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9, 16 |
Value |
Aug 23, 30; Sep 6, 13, 20, 27; Oct 4, 11, 18 |
Regular |
Oct 25 |
Value |
