Luciole Blog

15th - 21st June 2025

We love family charters - especially this one, which included five fine sons and ladies who rivalled ‘Charlie’s Angels’. The Luciole cruised from Clamecy to Auxerre in glorious weather - a cruise to remember for one and all.

The first visit of the week, led by our tour guide Vincent, was to the stunning Château of Bazoches. Nestled in the rolling Burgundian hills, the château is still family-owned by descendants of the Marquis de Vauban, Marshal of France and great military engineer to Louis XIV.

In Accolay, we were momentarily confused when what we thought was the local football team appeared. It seemed far too hot for a match - until we realised it was the ‘Accoloise’ ladies, out practising their nautical jousting skills ahead of the weekend tournament. A much nicer way to cool off than running around a football field - that’s for sure.

In Chablis, at Château Bichot, we said a fond farewell to Anna, who has welcomed us so warmly over the past few years. An exciting new chapter now awaits her. Before our tasting, there was a fabulous photo opportunity in the immaculate rose garden with, as mentioned, our very own ‘Charlie’s Angels’, and afterwards, a spontaneous visit to a quaint bar in the centre ville for a few more refreshments.

We only just made it to the Caves de Bailly for bubbles - better known as Crémant. The doors were closed, a padlock on the gate - but thankfully, with a little persuasion, we were invited in to enjoy a glass. As always, the dramatic quarry drew gasps of surprise and wonder.

Vincelles is the perfect place for a swim. On our return to the Luciole - so close to midsummer’s day - there was indeed madness: joyful jumping, diving, and swimming in the cool, languid current of the River Yonne. A more perfect finale to a summer’s day could not be imagined.