Sunday: Paris to Auxerre
You’ll be picked up in Paris at 2:30 by your chauffeur, who will take you the Quai in Auxerre where the Luciole is moored. A champagne welcome will greet you onboard, and you’ll be introduced to the crew who will accompany you. Spend some time on deck, taking in the view of Auxerre at sunset. During dinner, introduce yourself to your fellow passengers – you’ll be fast friends on this great adventure!
Monday: Auxerre to Bailly
Leave the city for pastoral France. You can walk or bike the towpath, casually ‘racing’ your floating hotel. Chances are good that you’ll win. In the afternoon, our barge will cruise towards the wine-making center of Bailly.
Tuesday: Bailly to Vermenton
Wine caves? Yes, please! Visit one in the morning in Chablis. We’ll stop near the picturesque villages of St. Bris, Irancy and Escolives, where we’ll meet a local wine producer. After lunch, we’ll enjoy relaxing cruise time.
Wednesday: Vermenton to Mailly-la-Ville
Noyers-sur-Serein, a 14th century medieval market village, is considered one of the top 100 prettiest villages in France. Practice your French by ordering a coffee at a small cafe!
Thursday: Mailly-la-Ville to Lucy-sur-Yonne
Get your cameras ready, we’re heading towards dramatic cliffs along the waters’ edge. Sit on the deck and enjoy the scenery! You could visit the town of Mailly-le-Chateau, or visit the imposing chateau of Bazoches.
Friday: Lucy-sur-Yonne to Clamecy
Make the short journey by bus to Vezelay, home to a 12th century Basilica. Cruising onward, Luciole will moor in the medieval Clamecy, where we’ll enjoy our final evening together.
Saturday: Clamecy to Paris
You’ll be chauffeured back to Paris. Estimated arrival time is 1pm. From there, will you return home, or perhaps lengthen your vacation with a stay in Paris? Talk to your USA River Cruise agent about ideas of what to do next!
This is a sample itinerary, subject to change depending on local conditions. Route also runs in reverse on alternate weeks.
