Champagne River Cruise

Begin your cruise down the waterways of northern France on the luxury Belmond Hirondelle. Set sail in the heart of the French countryside, arriving the next day in the regal city of Reims, where over 30 French Sovereigns have been crowned in the famous Gothic cathedral. Head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts to see their fine art collection, including pieces from Camille Corot, Claude Monet and Paul Gaugin. Sample the famous ‘Biscuit rose de Reims’ with a glass of champagne, before enjoying a gourmet dinner back on your private barge. The Hirondelle will continue down the canal to Châlons-en-Champagne, where the next day guests can dock for a tasting at a local, family run champagne house before exploring the town’s medieval cathedrals, gardens and bistros.

Cast off from Châlons-en-Champagne, relaxing on the barge deck enjoying gourmet meals created by your on-board chef, before arriving at Hautvillers on day five. This medieval town is set in the heart of the Reims Mountains and was the home of the infamous monk, Dom Pérignon. Visit his tomb that precedes over stunning vineyard views before learning the process of wine-making in the region. The next day you will arrive in your last port of call – Epernay- where you can wander down the aptly named Avenue de Champagne before enjoying an exclusive tasting or ‘degustation’ at the Champagne house of Moët & Chandon. Head back to the barge for a farewell gala dinner before setting off to Paris the very next day.

Spend your first evening in the city with a late entry to the Louvre, for a privately guided tour away from the heavy crowds. Get to know Paris in ultimate style the following day in a vintage blue Citroën 2CV, touring the city’s famous landmarks and districts before dining back at Le Bristol’s Michelin Star Epicure, where Head Chef Eric Frechon is known as the champion of French cuisine. The following day, head to the Palace of Versailles to explore the exquisite garden estate on a specialist tour, before enjoying a picnic in the royal grounds, surrounded by spectacular fountains. Spend your last evening dining on the waters of La Seine in a custom built Venetian water taxi, to see the Eiffel Tower and The Notre Dame lit up against the setting sun.