From Dijon to Escommes
Burgundy Canal
Sunday: Dijon, Burgundy
We will meet you in Dijon at 4.30 pm for your private chauffeured journey to the Savoir Vivre, anchored in Fleurey-sur-Ouche, a classic village nestled on the Canal du Bourgogne.
There will be time to unpack and explore, helping you to work up an appetite for your first on-shore dining experience at a local, friendly and refined restaurant, "Auberge les Gourmands"
We recommend the train which leaves Paris at 14h51, arriving in Dijon Ville at 4.30pm.
Monday: Fleury sur Ouche - Gissey
Wine, wine, wine!
This morning we begin your cruise back in time through the unhurried and authentic Valley of the Ouche.
Float past limestone cliffs, wooded hills and enchanting villages.
We moor above the lock at Gissey, from where you can stroll into this ancient, charming village.
After lunch on board, we cruise for another hour and then enjoy the first of many excursions.
You will be driven south to the famed Cote d'Or wine region to visit the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot, where Cistercian monks produced wine in the 12th century.
Examine the ancient wine presses and learn more about winemaking and life in that era.
Return to the present day with a wine tasting of this region's vintages.
We return to the barge for some free time to unwind before the evening meal at the nearby restaurant " O Petit Repere du Gout".
Tuesday: Gissey- La Bussiere
Market day in Dijon!
After breakfast on board, which includes village-baked pastries, we head to Dijon to mingle with locals at the famed outdoor market.
There will be time to look around the well-preserved old town and shop - think mustard and Cassis!
Then, we will go back to Savoir Vivre for lunch and an afternoon cruise through gorgeous scenery to La Bussiere sur Ouche.
Relax on board or take bicycles along the towpath - race us to the next lock... You are sure to win!
Explore the subtle charms of La Bussiere before preparing for dinner, which will be at the highly regarded hilltop restaurant "Ferme de Rolle."
Wednesday: La Bussiere - Pont D'Ouche
Beautiful Beaune!
Please take a moment to reflect this morning as we cruise to Pont d'Ouche.
After lunch aboard, sightseeing takes centre stage as we head to enchanting Beaune -the wine capital of the Cote d'Or.
There is much to enjoy here, the most important being the immaculately preserved Hospice de Beaune, a charity hospital built in the early 15th century that treated patients until the 20th!
There will be time to explore the shops or visit one of the many cafes in the square.
We will return to the barge in the late afternoon, with time to relax and prepare for dinner, which will be at the nearby delight "Le Spuller".
Thursday: Pont d'Ouche - La Repe
Today is all about cheese!
The wonderful Burgundy wines often accompany our local cheeses so today we will take you to discover some delightful local produce at the Ferme de Poisset, an authentic cheesemaker.
Learn how cheese is made, have a go, and then enjoy!
Return to Savoir Vivre and either stay on board, cycle or walk as we continue our journey on the historic Burgundy Canal to La Repe.
Tonight, enjoy a pre-dinner drink from the viewing point at Chateauneuf en Auxois before dining in the local creperie, (a French institution!) "L'Oree de Bois"
Friday: La Repe - Escommes
After breakfast, we return to the lovely Medieval village of Chateauneuf en Auxois perched high on the hill overlooking the canal.
Explore on cobblestoned streets, peek into private gardens, and then tour the haunting chateau.
Back to the barge for lunch as we continue our cruise into the Valley of Ouche.
Your final on-shore dinner is straight out of Ratatouille, "Chez Camille" in the heart of nearby Arnay le Duc.
Now is the time to share memories of your authentic encounters with Burgundy's people, cuisine, wine, and sights.
Saturday: Escommes to Dijon
A sad farewell!
Depart between 8.30 am and 9 am for your chauffeured transfer back to Dijon.
We hope to see you aboard again.
Savoir Vivre Bistro & Restaurants
L’AUBERGE GOURMANDE
L’Auberge Gourmand, the "Greedy Inn" is in the village of Velar-sur-Ouch. Chef Christophe has mastered his cooking skills in restaurants such as the Guy Savoy in Paris, Hotel Negresco in Nice, and Restaurant Fredy Giradet in Switzerland. As this restaurant's reputation is growing and its future very promising, we believe this is the “Savoir Vivre” time to visit.
LE BISTROT DES MOINES AT ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE
The once-Cistercian abbey built in 1131 has been transformed into a luxury Relais et Chateau hotel. The Abbaye de la Bussiere is only a couple of hundred metres from the Canal and set in a magnificent park. This setting is perfect for our guests, and a dining opportunity in the informal "Le Bistrot des Moines" will have fabulous results from the local ingredients and delicious classic Burgundy recipes.
RESTAURANT DE LA PORTE GUILLAUME IN THE HOTEL DU NORD
Located in the old city centre of Dijon, the Hotel du Nord serves up French fare with flair! The rich, comforting flavours of Burgundy cuisine are featured in dishes such as butter-drizzled escargot, duck with mushroom soufflé, and, of course, the classic beef bourguignon. Cheese fiends will adore the after-dinner menu, which features a dozen cheeses selected from the local area, including the very special creamy Epoisse.
LE SPULLER IN THE HOTEL DE SPULLER
Le Spuller is located in Sombernon, a village set high in the hills and overlooks the forests and valleys of the Burgundy countryside towards Dijon and Beaune. The combination of setting, quality of cuisine, and exceptionally friendly service hits all the marks.
L’OREE DU BOIS
Chateauneuf-en-Auxois is one of France's most picturesque villages, set on the hilltops and overlooking the heart of Burgundy the canal. The sunsets light up the sky to offer stunning panoramas. Within the fortified walls, the half-timbered L’Oree du Bois is a very special French “creperie.” With a large choice of authentic crepes from savoury to sweet treats, each made with skill and attention using local ingredients there is a dish for you.
LE LASSEY AT CHATEAU DE SAINTE SABINE
Chateau de Sabine is a beautifully presented chateau-hotel with views across the Auxois plain and the high hills. The Michelin-featured cuisine combines traditional dishes with a modern touch which adds a twist, full of flavour and stylish finesse. The elegant dining room décor enhances the exquisite presentation of dishes and quality service.
From Dijon to Escommes rates
The rates shown are standard, before any applicable discounts or promotions.
| 2025 USD rates | Regular season | Value season | |||
| Whole boat charter for 8 | 37, 800 USD | 35, 800 USD | |||
| Whole boat charter for 7 | 36, 800 USD | 34, 800 USD | |||
| Whole boat charter for 6 | 35, 800 USD | 33, 800 USD | |||
| Price per person, based on double occupancy | 4, 725 USD | 4, 475 USD | |||
| Single person supplement | 1, 995 USD | 1, 995 USD |
Prices include: Round-trip transfers between Dijon and the Barge Savoir Vivre. All meals commencing with Sunday evening dinner through to Saturday morning breakfast, including all wines, and an open bar aboard with a wide range of spirits and soft drinks.
Dinners are ashore, and included, along with 1/2 bottle of wine per person. Fully guided excursions including transport in a luxury, air-conditioned minibus and entrance fees. The use of bicycles, CDS, games and books.
2025 Departure dates
Value dates: April 6 - April 20; October 12 - October 19
Regular dates: April 27 - October 5
