Cruising Auxerre and Accolay on the River Yonne and Nivernais Canal
You are met at Paris at 2 pm and transferred by private car to Auxerre for a champagne reception aboard The Randle.
Auxerre is a beautiful cathedral city, just 2 hours drive from central Paris. The original cathedral dated from the 5th century and the city has numerous churches and religious buildings. Twice visited by Jean d'Arc, St Etienne Cathedral (11th -16th century) dominates the waterfront at Auxerre, perched on the high ground above the River Yonne. You may wish to climb the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and boutiques. Auxerre is a great place to shop or take a seat at a pavement café, enjoy a beer, glass of wine or artisan-made ice cream.
After an aperitif, it's time to enjoy a gourmet dinner prepared by our chef, Gael Robertson, served with a premier-cru wine from the region.
After a tasty breakfast, we begin our day with a 4-hour cruise along the river, arriving at Bailly, home to a fascinating underground 'cave', in time for lunch on board.
It's then time to enjoy a tour of the Grand-Cru vineyards of nearby Chablis and a tasting in one of the cellars of this famous wine-producing village.
We return to the Randle for dinner on board, along with another fine premier cru wine.
We begin our day with a gentle cruise along the picturesque Canal du Nivernais. Now is an ideal time to take a walk or cycle along the towpath, or perhaps simply relax on deck watching the world go by. The area is rich in fauna and flora, and decidedly peaceful. We moor in the pretty village of Accolay for lunch, during which we can discuss the possible visits this afternoon.
Will you choose to see one of the prettiest villages in France, Noyers Sur Serein, or the UNESCO 11th-century Basilica of Vezelay from where the crusaders began their long pilgrimages? Be sure to have your camera ready for the excursion as we journey through some of the most beautiful scenery.
After an enthralling afternoon, we return to the Randle for our final gourmet dinner, served with a premier-cru wine.
After breakfast aboard The Randle, we will escort you back to Paris and say ' A bientôt.'
We hope to see you again soon.