French Country Waterways has announced a special summer rate of
$2,995 for its six-night cruise aboard the 18-passenger luxury
barge Espirit through Burgundy’s fabled Côte d'Or wine-growing
region. The price represents a savings of $1,900 off the normal
fare of $4,895, and is offered on a space available basis for
weekly departures beginning July
1 through August 26.
Espirit will follow the narrow 18th-century Canal du Centre
overlooking vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, the meandering River
Saône and the Canal de Bourgogne between St. Léger-sur-Dheune and
Dijon.
Daily sightseeing excursions include a walking tour of Dijon,
capital of the Dukes of Burgundy; the privately-owned 18th-century
Château de Longecourt; medieval Clos de Vougeot, the Chevaliers du
Tastevin headquarters surrounded by vineyards dating back to the
12th century; Beaune, the charming wine capital of Burgundy; the
lively port of Chalon-sur-Saône; 12th-century La Rochepot castle;
and a tasting of renowned Burgundies in the private cellars of a
local vintner in Santenay. In their free time, passengers can relax
on the sundeck and walk or bicycle along the towpaths. Hot-air
ballooning is also an option.
Jacques Lameloise, owner and chef of Michelin two-star rated
Lameloise, will prepare a special menu gourmand of seasonal
Burgundian specialties for the Espirit’s passengers in his family’s
15th-century home in Chagny. Aboard the barge, guests enjoy
four-course French dinners, blending classic cooking techniques
with the trend towards lighter, healthier dishes, served with some
of the finest wines from France, such as 1995 Meursault
Perrieres-Premier Cru, 1993 Pommard Pezerolles-Premier Cru and 1995
St. Emilion-Grand Cru.
The Espirit features a partially canopied sundeck, lounge and
dining room with picture windows, well-stocked bar, library and
nine staterooms. Prices cover accommodations, all meals,
estate-bottled wines, open bar, sightseeing, bicycles and escorted
transfers between Paris and the barge.
800-222-1236
www.fcwl.com
