Loire Valley Cruise 2020

Small Group Tour with Back-Roads Touring Co.

A cruise in the heart of France

Take in the beautiful scenery as you drift past stunning Berry and the incredible Sologne region on this magnificent Loire Valley cruise. Along the way we’ll tick off impressive architecture, historic cities and prestigious vineyards – making for a truly memorable (and quintessentially French) experience.

THE BACK-ROADS DIFFERENCE 

• See the Briare Aqueduct, one of the most prestigious waterways in France
• Stroll through the well-preserved historic sites of the famous Berry and Sologne regions
• Enjoy included drinks and onboard meals, as well as a Gala dinner and welcome cocktails

Map

ITINERARY

DAY 1 PARIS – NEVERS

After meeting the group in Paris, we’ll leave the city behind us as we make our way to the humble town of Nevers – where we’ll board our private barge this afternoon. After settling into your cabin, there will be plenty of time to get to know the crew and your fellow travellers. What better way to kick off the cruise than with a round of welcome cocktails and an included dinner? (D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 2 NEVERS – MARSEILLES-LÈS-AUBIGNY

This morning we’ll embark on a tour of romantic Nevers – where we’ll see the iconic Ducal Palace, stroll past the half-timbered houses of the old quarter and visit Nevers Cathedral, an impressive national monument. After that, we’ll stop off at the Nevers Blue Gold pottery district (where we’ll enjoy a local produce tasting session) before we continue along the river towards Marseilles-lès-Aubigny. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 3 MARSEILLES-LÈS-AUBIGNY – LA CHAPELLE-MONTLINARD

After this morning’s breakfast, our first stop of the day will be the historic Fontmorigny Abbey. Then: it’s onwards to charming Apremont-sur-Allier, one of the most heart-stealing villages in France, for a photo opportunity or two. After we’ve had a look around the magnificent floral garden, we’ll return to the barge and continue our journey towards La Chapelle-Montlinard – where we’ll be treated to outstanding views of the Val de Loire Natural Reserve. After dinner, the evening will be yours to discover the unique nature, culture and heritage of the area. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 4 LA CHAPELLE-MONTLINARD – MÉNÉTRÉOL-SOUS-SANCERRE

We’ll start the day with a tour of La Charité-sur-Loire and its beautifully restored, UNESCO World Heritage-listed priory. Afterwards, we’ll visit a farm deep in the countryside, where we’ll experience the rustic charm that can only be found in France. And in the evening? We’ll enjoy an included dinner as we cruise towards Ménétréol-sous-Sancerre, our home for the night. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 5 MÉNÉTRÉOL-SOUS-SANCERRE – LÉRÉ

This morning we’ll take a tour of Pouilly-sur-Loire, where we’ll visit the impressive Tour de Pouilly-Fumé – a local winery with a mesmerising backdrop. Here, we’ll stroll the extensive vineyards, see the wine cellar and enjoy a delectable wine tasting session before we climb back aboard the barge. Our next stop will be Léré, where you’ll be free to spend the evening at your leisure after dinner. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 6 LÉRÉ – BRIARE

We have an exciting day ahead of us today, with a visit to Sancerre – a historic medieval hilltop town overlooking the Loire Valley – on the agenda. While we’re here, we’ll visit an authentic goat farm – where we’ll have the chance to taste some delicious cheeses and local Sancerre wine. This afternoon will be spent cruising through the Briare Aqueduct (one of the longest navigable aqueducts in the world) before we don our finest outfits for a gala dinner aboard the barge. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: MS Jeanine

DAY 7 BRIARE – PARIS

After enjoying one last buffet breakfast, we’ll bid a fond farewell to our barge. Then, it’s all aboard the mini-coach back to Paris, where our tour will come to an end. (B)

Includes

• 6 nights aboard a boutique hotel barge
• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader
• Premium mini-coach transportation
• Daily European-style breakfasts (B), daily lunches (L), daily dinners (D)
• Entrance included to all the attractions in the itinerary, including: Nevers Cathedral, Fontmorigny Abbey, the Priory of La Charité-sur-Loire, the Tour de Pouilly-Fumé winery and a traditional goat farm in Sancerre

Please Note:
Prices shown based on low season travel - details on request

Travel dates:
Specific travel dates apply

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