L'Art de Vivre

Auxerre
Sunday
Guests are met at the ideally positioned Hotel Westminster in Paris and transferred by private, chauffeured minibus to the pretty LArt de Vivre.
Following a Champagne welcome, you are free to explore the Medieval town of Auxerre or take a stroll along the banks of the River Yonne before returning for dinner on board.

Auxerre to Vincelles
Monday
Our morning cruise takes us through some delightful locks and past vineyard-clad hillsides to our rural mooring at Vincelles.
The afternoon excursion is to Aubigny, to explore the fascinating quarry, an underground wonderland of stonework.
We'll then introduce you to some excellent wines in the cellars of Bailly-Lapierre where we enjoy a private tasting.
Dinner on board.

Vincelles to Mailly-la-Ville
Tuesday
After breakfast, our excursion is to the medieval town of Auxerre.
Formerly the capital of Lower Burgundy, the town prides itself on its beautiful churches and notably the magnificent cathedral situated close to the river. There are numerous lavish Renaissance houses here.
We then return to the hotel barge for a cruise southwards through rich pastures, past grazing Charolais cattle to the sleepy village of Mailly la Ville.
After your relaxed lunch on board, perhaps this is an excellent time to enjoy a walk or bicycle ride along the towpath.
Dinner on board.

Mailly-la-Ville to Le Saussois
Wednesday
This morning we head to Chablis to the prestigious cellars of Domaine Laroche for a private tasting, followed by a delicious gourmet lunch in the Domaine's beautiful dining hall.
In the afternoon, we cruise past the cliffs at Le Saussois, a stunning natural setting, with an international climbing centre.  Do the cliffs hide a hidden romantic sign? Can you spot it?
There will also be an opportunity to enjoy delightful walks or bicycle rides along the towpath before dinner ashore in the 5-star hotel Le Chateau de Vault-de-Lugny.  This secluded and romantic setting dates back almost 900 years!

Le Saussois to Lucy-sur-Yonne
Thursday
In the morning, we continue our journey through the Yonne Valley to our mooring at Lucy-sur-Yonne. After lunch on board,  we enjoy an excursion to the fascinating pilgrimage town of Vezelay, one of Burgundy's most famous treasures.  Savour the light and atmosphere within the Romanesque Basilica of St Mary Magdalene, the perfect place for some quiet contemplation.  In the village, you'll discover craft shops and excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Dinner aboard.

Lucy-sur-Yonne to Chevroches
Friday
After our busy afternoon, yesterday now is the time to relax and admire the scenery during our morning cruise through beautiful countryside to our final mooring at the pretty canalside village of Chevroches.
In the afternoon, we visit the elegant Chateau de Bazoches, built in the 12th century and known as an excellent example of a trapezoidal construction. Illustrious visitors to the chateau included Richard the Lionheart.
Marechal Vauban later remodelled the chateau, and there are beautiful views from its elevated hillside setting.
Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.

Chevroches
Saturday
After breakfast, guests are transferred to the Hotel Westminster in Paris.