La Reine Pedauque cruise program 2008

Relaxing Dream cruise in Burgundy

Everyday, every corner, every lock we pass through, something new. : P.A. 2004

The barge La Reine Pedauque cruises on the Burgundy canal, from the historical market town Dijon, along the picturesque Vallée de l'Ouche to the village of Vandenesse en Auxois.

Day 1: Friday
Arrival at "Chateau la Chassagne", Pont de Pany, near Dijon. At 5 pm transfer in air-conditioned Minibus to the hotel-barge. A warm welcome aboard from captain and crew with a Kir-Royal cocktail - the start to a unique and memorable stay in Burgundy. The captain takes us on a visit to Dijon, to view the highlights of the old city centre, with it's magnificent historical architecture such as Notre Dame and the cobbled streets with boutiques of all kinds. On returning to the barge, it is time for drinks and our first candle-light dinner served with regional wines. The evening is brought to a pleasant close in the friendly atmosphere of the bar where all drinks are on the house.

 
Photos of Dijon at night, a town full of history and charm.

Day 2: Saturday
While we are having breakfast "La Reine Pédauque" leave Dijon and head for the first of a total of 45 locks. We make our way along Lake Kir with its leisure facilities via Plombieres to Velars sur Ouche. Guests are free to leave the boat at any of the picturesque lacks and to continue on foot or bicycle along the towpath to the next one. After a break for lunch, we continue on our leisurely way before reaching Fleurey sur Ouche, where we will moor for the night. Depending on your mood, you may wish to take part in the entertainment program, but whatever you decide, food and drink will be at its French best !

Day 3: Sunday
The third day brings us into the heart of Burgundy, into the glorious Ouche Valley. Comfortably seated on the sundeck, we will travel back through time to an unhurried world, past the enchanting village of Pont de Pany and "Chateau la Chassagne", and past Saint Marie sur Ouche. We finally tie up in Gissey and set out to explore the surrounding countryside in the company of the captain.

Day 4: Monday
After a copious breakfast, we take leave of passengers who have booked only three nights and set off on a day's excursion with the captain to Beaune and discover the wonders of the local vineyards. Here we will visit the world famous Hospices de Beaune and the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame. We go wine tasting in a vignerons's cellar where much is explained about the wine production of Burgundy, even for the experts, the knowledge and skills of wine tasting are best learnt on the home ground. A delightful lunch at a typical restaurant in a small and very well known wine village. With the captain, you will discover how the vineyards are skilfully looked after, the grapes, harvesting and making of wine.

Back on board we will meet our new guests who have joined us for the remaining cruise.

Day 5: Tuesday
In the morning "La Reine Pédauque" ups anchor and gets underway for Saint Victor, beside the village of Barbiery sur Ouche and then onto La Bussiere, where a visit to the Cistercian abbey is an absolute must.
The abbey is set in a private park, with fresh water springs, a mill and a very old wine press. Construction of the establishment dates back to 975 A.D, through the centuries, the buildings have changed and been restored.
After lunch we continue our cruise past Veuvey on our way to today's destination: Pont d'Ouche. There are some wonderful stretches of canal which are great for walking and cycling.

Day 6: Wednesday
Very hard work for the captain today mastering the numerous locks between Pont d'Ouche and Vandenesse. For passengers it is the last chance to sit back and soak up the beauty of the surroundings. There's enough time for an outing to the medieval hillside village of Chateauneuf en Auxois. In the evening you are guests at the captain's table for a farewell gala dinner, a grand affair, at which you will be presented with your lock diplomas.

Day 7: Thursday
After a generous breakfast, with sweet memories of their cruise, passengers say good bye to newly made friends and their home for the past 7 days. Depending on the next destination the passengers leave the boat and are driven back to Chateau la Chassagne, to the train station or Dijon airport.

Call Toll-Free 1 800 322 7952

As this is a one-way cruise, the itinerary is also operated in the opposite direction according to starting date.
We reserve the right to alter the leisure program and it may be changed due to unpredictable circumstances.