History cruise

Any week for Charter Groups

Our History cruise week will enrich those in the deep history and culture of Burgundy and France. Providing in depth history tours led in a light hearted manner, weaved with relaxing in luxury on the Luciole as she cruises through the countryside.

Burgundy is noted for it’s rich history. First inhabited by the Celts and later the Romans. It became occupied by the Franks who’s dissolution shaped the region.

In the Middle Ages the region became home to some of the most important churches and monastries in the Western world. Since, it has seen many wars and battles - the Hundred Years’ War, Revolution and World War II.

Itinerary

Sunday

Rendezvous in Paris at the Hotel Mansart at 2.15pm. On board, the Luciole crew welcome passengers with a Champagne reception and canapés.

Monday

Before cruising to Vincelles, we visit L’Abbeye de Pontigny, the largest Cistercian monastery in France, founded in 1114. Afternoon wine tasting in Chablis.

Tuesday

Morning cruise to Accolay, afternoon visit to Auxerre. The city was established in the 1st Century and we visit the Gothic cathedral and remarkable Romanesque crypt. There is also time for shopping in the medieval streets.

Wednesday

Early cruise before our day away. We visit the World Heritage UNESCO Abbaye de Fontenay and lunch in Alesia before visiting Semur-en-Auxois, a town dominated by the citadel’s impressive turrets. The evening mooring is below the cliffs of Mailly-le-Château.

Thursday

Morning cruise to Lucy-sur-Yonne. Afternoon visit to the hilltop Benedictine Basilica of Vézelay. The imposing UNESCO displays the relics of Mary Magdalene and it was from here, the 2nd and 3rd Crusades left for Spain. To this day Vézelay is an esteemed centre of pilgrimage.

Friday

Cruise to Clamecy past the 13th Century Chartreuse de Basseville. Later a visit to the Château of Bazoches, once home to Vauban, France’s influential military engineer and Maréchal de France under Louis XIV.

Saturday

Morning departure, arriving in Paris at lunchtime.