Adagio

The Upper Loire cruise promises and delivers!  From Medieval castles to sumptuous palaces, the finest, most intricate porcelain to stunning vineyards producing the crispest of Sancerre wine, this route takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of France. 
Join us for a week of great cuisine and fantastic guided tours creating a really memorable trip.

Sunday: From Paris to Montargis
Your chauffeur collects you in the air-conditioned minibus for the journey from a Paris hotel to Adagio, moored in the beautiful town centre of Montargis, known as the 'Venice of the Gatinais' due to the 131 bridges, each one decorated with flowers, that cross the canals in the town. Once aboard you are welcomed with a champagne reception and an introduction to your crew and ship. Shortly afterwards, we begin a gentle cruise passing through a flight of locks: Hard work for the crew but a  delight to see! Enjoy an aperitif as we cruise along the canal before the first of many delicious dinners on board.

Monday: Montargis to Montbuoy
We begin the morning with a leisurely cruise through the idyllic French countryside, with villages nestled by the very canal banks.  You are welcome to walk or cycle alongside if you wish.  After lunch, we set off for the first of several fascinating visits, to the Chateau Guedelon where you can discover the various stages of the construction of a Medieval castle and have a go at some ancient skills needed.  The Guedelon project began in 1997 with the chateau due for completion in 2022.  
We return to Adagio in time for dinner on board.

Tuesday: Montbuoy to Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses
After the business of Guedelon, we invite you to relax this morning. Admire the pasture and woodlands while we listen to the beautiful birdsong as we drift along.  On arrival at Rogny-les-Sept Ecluses, you are welcome to take the time to visit the ancient lock flight, a monument to the genius of moving boats up and down hills!
After lunch, we offer you a choice of two excursions:
The first (1hr15 minutes drive away) is to the impressive Chateau de Fontainebleau, steeped in French history and a fine example of many architectural styles, having been influenced by many generations of the French Royal family.
Alternatively, and just 15 minutes drive away, is the 12th-century Chateau de la Bussiere.  While not as visually stunning, this chateau, originally built as a fortress, houses an extensive collection of art illustrating the noble are of fishing, which is the most popular past time in France.  In the castle grounds, we can view the expansive vegetable and flower gardens loving built and nurtured by the resident Countess.
We return to Adagio for cocktails and canapés before a truly delicious dinner.

Wednesday: Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses to Ouzouer sur Trezee
It's time to cruise past the impressive flight of locks.  Originally built in 1648 to connect the Loire and the Seine, the flight has been replaced by a modern flight which is far easier to manage.
After lunch on board, it's a short drive to the welcoming town of Gien, famous for its exquisite tableware and pottery. Discover the Gien factory with your knowledgeable guide and see the talented artists at work, creating beautiful patterns by hand which make their work so sought after.  There will be time to shop for souvenirs and to stroll around the town before heading back to Adagio for cocktails and dinner.

Thursday: Ouzouer sur Trezee to Beaulieu sur Loire
Cameras at the ready!  This morning we cruise across the River Loire via the famous Pont Canal de Briare, one of the most photographed bridges in France. Spanning the Loire to connect the Canal Laterale a la Loire with the Canal de Briare, the bridge took 6 years to build, from 1890 to 1896, and has an incredible 72 lamps and magnificent pillars at either end adorned with coats of arms. The bridge is a true testament of the skills and craftsmanship of the late 19th century.
Our history lesson continues after lunch with a visit to the 17th-century renaissance Chateau of Saint Fargeau, which was originally built in 1453 but destroyed by a terrible fire in the 17th century.  Fortunately, it was rebuilt and has since gone many changes and restoration over the centuries including 6 towers.
Back on board, it's time for cocktails and another wonderful dinner.

Friday: Beaulieu sur Loire to Sancerre
We've done the chateaux...today it's all about the wine!
After a leisurely breakfast, our cruise takes us to the home of one of the most famous wine-producing towns in the world, Sancerre.  There is plenty of time to walk or cycle along should you prefer some light exercise this morning.
After lunch on board, we visit the Medieval town, strategically positioned high above the valley and the vineyards of the Loire.  We've organized a private wine-tasting so sample some of the local fare as we discover the secrets of growing and producing the wonderful Sancerre wine.  
It's time to return to Adagio for a wonderful Captain's Dinner around a beautifully decorated table and to look back on a wonderful week of great cuisine, fun company and perhaps a moment for the Captain to recall a good sea dog tale!

Saturday: Departure 9.30 am
After a hearty breakfast to help you on your way,  we bid you farewell and bon voyage!
Our chauffeurs will drive you to a hotel or airport in Paris.  ETA 12.30pm

One of very few barges operating in the Champagne region, Adagio takes you on a wonderful adventure cruising through the stunning vineyards of this beautiful region, much favoured by the Romans who bequeathers small vineyards to their retired war veterans in the knowledge that they would protect them valiantly. This cruise takes you to the world-famous vineyards of Epernay, home of Moet et Chandon, to the mighty cathedral of Reims dating from the 13th-century,  the Ameican Memorial and the cellars of Lanson Champagne. 
A fabulous cruise awaits you in this delightful region.

Sunday: From Paris to Chalons-en-Champagne
Your chauffeur collects you in the air-conditioned minibus for the journey from a Paris hotel to Adagio, moored at Chalons-en-Champagne, believed to be the site of several battles including the Battle of Chalons of 274.  Once aboard you are welcomed with a champagne reception and an introduction to your crew. Enjoy the panoramic views from the top deck with an aperitif before the first of many delicious dinners on board.

Monday: Chalons-en-Champagne to Mareuil-sur-Marne
We begin our day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Chalons-en-Champagne, including two UNESCO listed churches and a museum with stunning Romanesque sculpture. The town is one of contrasts as you'll see... from a National Circus Centre to medieval houses and parks, there is much to be enjoyed here.
After lunch on board Adagio, we begin our cruise along the Canal laterale a la Marne, which was constructed in 1845. You may like to admire the skill of the Captain as he takes the barge through the narrow locks with just inches to spare on either side!  By late afternoon we arrive in a beautiful setting surrounded by the vineyards and overlooking a typical Champagne village, for a very peaceful evening.  There's time to take a gentle stroll or bike ride before an aperitif or two before another delicious dinner.

>Tuesday: Mareuil-sur-Marne to Cumieres
We continue our journey this morning, cruising past sleeping, unspoilt villages as we descend towards the River Marne. Our mooring in Cumieres, a champagne village of 186 vineyards owners,  will take your breath away... stretching as far as the eye can see, are hundreds of vineyards lining the Montagne de Reims.
After lunch on board, it's time to visit the ancient city of Reims to discover the secrets of the world-renowned Lanson Champagne house.  We'll finish our tour in the magnificent cathedral of Notre Dame, where 33 coronations took place over 1000 years.  The Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Gothic art and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
We return to Adagio to enjoy a glass of champers before another wonderful dinner.
What a fantastic day!

Wednesday: Cumieres to Damery
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before Adagio continues on her journey, as a short cruise takes us to another Champagne village, Damery. We moor in a perfect spot for a stroll along the river before lunch. Our afternoon is all about the bubbles as we visit Epernay, the capital of the Champagne region which is home to many of the worlds most famous Champagne houses.  The under-street cellars house over 200 million bottles of Champagne just waiting to be popped open to celebrate any special event.  After a guided tour of the cellars of Moet & Chandon, we stop off at Hautvillers, the 'birthplace' of Champagne where in 1693 Dom Perignon discovered Champagne while making wine.  His wine was accidentally full of bubbles and the story goes that he proclaimed 'Come quickly! I am tasting the stars!"  For you to judge as we enjoy another flute of Champagne on deck before dinner. 

Thursday: Damery to Chateau Thierry
Our cruise this morning takes us through rolling countryside and vineyards, to our mooring at Chateau Thierry.  After a tasty lunch, join our tour guide to visit Belleau Woods where the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments fought throughout most of June 1918.  This is a humbling experience as we acknowledge their gallant actions which resulted in the end of the Battle of Belleau Woods on June 26, under the Marine Monument.  The woodland was officially renamed Wood of the Marine Brigade on June 30, 1918, by the Commanding General of the French 6th Army. The  8100 casualties of the 2nd Division are remembered in the various vestiges of trenches, shell holds, and relics including weaponry found in the vicinity and now on display.
We return to Adagio for a well-earned aperitif and another wonderful dinner.

Friday: Chateau Thierry to La Ferte-sous-Jouarre
For our last day of cruising, we journey to La Ferte-sous-Jouarre while enjoying a leisurely breakfast before heading out to visit the American Monument. Built in 1929 as an everlasting reminder of the American troops who fought in WWII, the monument is perched high above the valley at 660 feet.
We return to Adagio to continue our cruise to the cellar of Alain Bedel, one of our Captain's favourites where we're in for a real treat after our lunch  This small vineyard is run by a father and daughter, who share a real passion for their vines and will delight in allowing us to taste some of their fine Champagnes. 
We then return to Adagio for a final cruise, to our peaceful overnight mooring.
Join us for our Captain's Dinner where the sparkle of the week continues along with laughter, excellent cuisine and some sea dog tales too!

Saturday: Departure 9.30 am
After a hearty breakfast to help you on your way,  we bid you farewell and bon voyage!
Our chauffeurs will drive you to a hotel or airport in Paris.  ETA 12.30 pm

Join the barge Adagio as she journey's from Belgium to Holland, including Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Willemstad, Holland's Diep, Rotterdam, Delft and Haarlem

Sunday: Bruges to Ghent (embarkation 14.00 hrs; hotel pick-up at 13h30))
You cannot pass through this part of the world without a visit to the beautiful city of Bruge, known as the "Venice of the North". Why not book a hotel and spend a day or two here before your cruise. You will not regret a stay in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. So much so it has been designated as a World Heritage Site. On Sunday, at 12.00 hrs noon, you meet aboard the Adagio and after settling in, we cruise towards Ghent. A light buffet lunch will be served.
Welcome dinner aboard.

Monday: Ghent to Antwerp
This morning we visit Ghent to see the “not to be missed” St Bavo’s Cathedral where you can view the world-famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painted by Hubert and Jan van Eyck around 1432. It’s the
highlight of the Flemish Primitives and a milestone in art history. The Polyptych survived the Protestant Iconoclasm, fell into French hand under Napoleon and was requisitioned by Nazi Germany during the Second World War. But it has now been hanging peacefully for more than 50 years in the place where it belongs: St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Afterwards, rejoin Adagio for lunch and cruise to Antwerp, where we shall moor for the night.
Dinner aboard.

Tuesday: Antwerp to Willemstad
We shall have an early breakfast before visiting Reuben’s House.
Rubens is to Antwerp what Gaudi is to Barcelona. Or Warhol to New York. His art has defined the skyline and prestige of Antwerp. The Rubens House is one of the most renowned artist's residences
worldwide. We shall also visit the Cathedral, with its’ iconic treasury and impressive collection of major artworks, including a series of paintings by Rubens. Now, after twenty years, the seven-naved church has been restored to its former architectural glory. Fascinating features include Rubens’ ‘Elevation of the Cross’ and his ‘Descent from the Cross’. We then rejoin the Adagio for a late lunch and cruise onwards towards our mooring at Willemstad in the Netherlands. This town is preserved in its original state, with windmill dykes, an old church and a 15th-century arsenal. Wonderful bars along the quayside.
Dinner on board.

Wednesday: Willemstad to Delft
This morning we set off at the crack of dawn across the mighty Holland’s Diep, part of the Dutch estuaries and onward past Dortrecht and Rotterdam, arriving in Delft. This afternoon we take a tour of the Delft Royal Porcelain Factory (www.royaldelft.com), where beautiful hand-painted ceramics are still made. If there is the time, you can then take a stroll around the cobbled streets of Delft before re-joining the Adagio for aperitifs and canapés.
Dinner on board

Thursday: Delft to Lieden
During breakfast, we begin our cruise out of Delft, past the quaint homes on the edge of the canal. Make sure that you have your camera ready for later as we pass through the oldest lock in Holland at Leidschendam, before arriving at our final destination for today at Lieden. Dating back to 1266, this quaint city is home to one of the oldest universities in the country and the birthplace of the famous artist Rembrandt Van Rijn.  We will explore the historical sites before joining Adagio ready for dinner on board

Friday: Lieden to Haarlem
Today we cruise to the medieval town of Haarlem, often referred to as “Little Amsterdam”. The main square was once used for jousting but today Haarlem is better known for its famous Frans Hals Museum which houses a vast collection of Old Masters. We allow plenty of time to explore the museum and the boutiques in the ancient streets. We return to the Adagio in the late afternoon to a beautifully set table ready for the Captain's Dinner.  It's time to sit back, relax and talk about the week we've spent together over more great cuisine and wine, and some interesting sea dog tales.

Saturday: Haarlem (disembarkation at 9.30 am)
After breakfast, we bid you farewell. Your drivers will take you onwards to either Amsterdam city centre or Amsterdam Airport.

Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions

Adagio is the only barge to offer such a unique cruise, taking in an array of culture and history.

From the UNESCO site of Bruges, the "Mystique Lamb" of Ghent, the Palace of Compiegne and a cruise through central Paris, this will be the journey of a lifetime! This route has been thrilling our guests for 15 years!

Bruges: Magnificent cruise through Bruges
Sunday
You will be met by our guide at the designated pick-up point and escorted via private motorcoach to the Adagio's mooring in picturesque Bruges, the Venice of the north, for a Champagne and canape reception and introduction to the crew.   With its small canals and magnificent squares, Bruges is a real delight.  Our guide will organise a canal boat ride for a unique view of the architecture of the town.  Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails before you first delicious dinner on board.

Bruges to Ghent: Tour of Bruges
Monday
This morning we will take a walking tour of Bruges to discover its wonderful architecture and history.  We'll return to the Adagio for lunch and our afternoon cruise to Ghent.  Dinner on board.

Ghent to Oudenaarde: The "Mystique Lamb"
Tuesday
After breakfast, our knowledgeable tour guide will escort you into Ghent.  We'll visit the magnificent cathedral which houses the fabulous painting "The Mystic Lamb", painted by the Van Eck brothers.  There will be some free time to explore the local boutiques at your leisure. After lunch, we begin cruising on the River Schelde to Oudenaarde, our mooring for the night. Dinner on board

Oudenaarde to Tournai

Wednesday 
There's plenty of time to relax this morning as we cruise gently up the River Schelde past sleepy hamlets and beautiful rolling landscapes until our arrival at Tournai, an ancient town.  Not to be missed is the aged and fascinating clock tower on the wonderful square.  

Dinner aboard.

Tournai to Arleux: Cathedral of Ghent and the "Mystique Lamb"
Thursday 
Today we move further into France along the river through the town of Valenciennes and to the junction with the Canal du Nord.  Many barges pass through the little French village of Arleux on there way to the south of France. We'll take some time out to visit the town of Cambrai, home to the famous confectionary, the Betise de Cambrai sweet.  'Betise' means nonsense or mistake and legend goes that these sweets were invented by accident by the son of a confectioner named Afchain. They make a good gift!
Dinner on board.

Arleux to overnight mooring: Amiens Cathedral
Friday
A day of contrasts awaits!
This morning your Captain will pilot Adagio over the Vermandois Hills of Picardy through many deep locks and several tunnels on the Canal du Nord.  This is no mean feat, and the scenery is spectacular too!  The well-maintained towpath invites you to walk or cycle along through the rural landscape. 
After lunch, we leave the countryside behind to visit the town of Amiens to see one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in France, with towering spires and magnificent columns.
Dinner aboard.

Overnight mooring to Peronne: War Museum of Peronne
Saturday
After the climb yesterday, today we will drop down towards the Valley of the Somme, revealing landscapes not normally seen by tourists.  Again, there are great opportunities for cycling.

After lunch, we will visit the war museum in Peronne.

Dinner aboard.

Peronne to Compiegne: The Royal Palace of Compiegne
Sunday
Our cruise today brings us to the Oise River valley.  We will moor in the busy waterside town of Compiegne.  There is much to see here including the Royal Palace, a huge town square and the train where the WWI Armistice was signed.

Dinner aboard.

Compiegne to Auvers sur Oise: Van Gogh
Monday
After breakfast, we continue our cruise through the beautiful Oise Valley.  We will moor in Auvers sur Oise, where Van Gogh took his inspiration to produce many of his last and most important paintings.  He stayed in a small room above the local café.   An afternoon walking tour may inspire you too!  We'll finish the tour at the cemetery where both Vincent Van Gogh and his brother are buried.

Dinner aboard.

Auvers sur Oise to Conflans: Monet Gardens of Giverny
Tuesday
We continue our arty theme today with a day excursion to Giverny, to visit the home and gardens of Claude Monet, the most famous of the Impressionist painters.  Stand by the Japanese bridge, gaze into the Lily pond and discover his many influences in the fascinating exhibition in the house.

We will lunch in a local auberge today.

The barge will be moored at Conflans this evening, at the junction of the River Seine and the Oise.  Many bargees retire here, and you will see numerous house barges alongside the quays.  Dinner aboard.

Conflans to Paris: Napoleon & Paris - all in one day!
Wednesday
We slip away from Conflans at dawn to cruise along the mighty River Seine to Bouvigal, where we'll visit the home of Napoleon at Malmaison, lavishly decorated by Josephine.   Lunch on board and then we continue our cruise to Paris, past the iconic Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame cathedral to moor in the heart of Paris.
This evening, the Captain's Dinner in such a romantic setting provides the perfect time to look back over your time onboard Adagio.

Paris: A sad Au Revoir
Thursday
Enjoy a special hearty breakfast before bidding farewell to the Adagio, her Captain and crew.  Bags are loaded after breakfast to transfer you to your drop off point in Paris.

Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions