France - Afloat in France
Afloat in France
Hirondelle
Barging on the Canal
Hirondelle on the Canals
Barging & Ballooning
Hirondelle Deckplan
Gently drifting along the beautiful canals and rivers of France is a perfect way to relax and enjoy your vacation. The barges operate a regular schedule from April to October, where fully inclusive itineraries are usually six nights, commencing Sundays but shorter or longer durations can be arranged with private charters.
The Hirondelle cruises the most peaceful and picturesque waterways in Burgundy and Franche-Comté, areas renowned for their vineyards, gothic churches, abbeys and gastromic delights.
The four beautifully appointed staterooms, with private facilites and large windows that open well above the waterline are decorated in contemporary style. There is a spacious living/dining salon for relaxing with the latest bestseller and the sundeck allows you to watch the landscape pass by.
Excursions can be arranged to quaint towns or you may wish to bicycle through the countryside, then at the end of the day return to your "home in the country" where the crew have prepared an evening to your liking.
Share the days with old or new friends making memories that will appear in conversations for years to come.
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Itinerary Suggestion: Besançon to St Léger.
Sunday:
On Arrival at Dijon Station met by your Afloat in France guide and transfer to the barge moored beneath the King's tower of the magnificent Citadelle. A Champagne reception gives you a chance to meet the crew. This evening the barge remains in Besançon, giving you the opportunity to view this bustling city.
Monday:
After a relaxing breakfast this morning's cruise is quiet spectacular as the barge sails a short distance up the River Doubs before turning into the canal tunnel and passing directly underneath the Citadelle. Emerging on the downstream side of town you begin the descent of the Doubs Valley until reaching the sleepy town of Osselle. This afternoon, take a tour of Vauban's imposing Citadelle.
Tuesday:
The boat continues to cruise downstream, alternating between the river and sections of the Canal du Rhóne au Rhin, which traverses the rugged Franche- Comté and Jura regions. Today's visits are to Arbois, the principal town of the Jura wine producing region, and a walking tour of Dole, including the magnificent cathedral and La Maison Pasteur, home of Louis Pasteur.
Wednesday:
This morning relax on board before taking a drive through the beautiful countryside to the Relais & Chateau hotel at Levernois for lunch. Stroll around their grounds before a short drive into Beaune to visit the Hospice de Beaune. This evening's mooring is at St Jean de Losne, the barging capital of France. Take some time this evening or early tomorrow to stroll around the port and see the many working and pleasure barges.
Thursday:
A morning's cruise on the River Saóne before entering the Canal du Centre. The barge moors at the picturesque village of Fragnes. Visit the Cháteau de Rully, where the Countess de Ternay personally welcomes you on a tour of this medieval fortress.
Friday:
After Breakfast, visit Chalon-sur-Saóne where the hustle and bustle of the market creates a wonderful atmosphere. A leisurely cruise to St Léger allows you to savour the beauty of the French countryside and reflect on the week's events. This evening enjoy your farewell gala dinner onboard.
Saturday:
Say farewell to your crew and friends then disembark after breakfast and transfer to Dijon station.
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Other Itineraries available are:
-Besançon to Dijon
-Digoin to Pont Canal du Guetin
-Digoin to St Léger
-Dijon to Besançon
-Dijon to Escommes
-Dijon to St Léger
-Escommes to Dijon
-Escommes to St Jean
-Pont Canal du Guetin to Digoin
-Pont Canal du Guetin to Rogny
-Rogny to Pont du Canal
-St Léger to Besançon
-St Léger to Digoin
-St Léger to Dijon
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Entertainment is available Off Board:
The Hirondelle has a minibus and bicycles are
provided for excursions to local landmarks.
Also available to request are:
-Ballooning
-Canoeing
-Golf
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What's Included:
-Six nights on board your péniche-hôtel
-Breakfast, lunch and candlelit dinner each day
-Refreshments on board after excursions
-Wine with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board
-Sightseeing excursions, including entrance fees
-Use of bicycles
-Air-conditioned mini-van with driver for sightseeing
Gratuity not Included.
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For more information about barging click on the name below.
"Price From" below indicates the low season rates and may not apply to the entire date range shown.
Cruise directions and sample itineraires may be reverse and may depend on bookings and navigation conditions. For charter cruises special itineraries can be arranged.
To enquire about this experience please click on the gold "enquire" button below.
| Travelling | Share | Price From* |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Afloat in France - The Hirondelle | 01 May 10 to 30 Mar 11 | Twin(pp) | $6,165 |
Conditions
Conditions apply. Prices are per person twin share based on conditions of carriage. Boat requires full capacity to sail. Valid for sale until further notice. Valid for travel on season dates. Airfare is not included. Transfers (if) included are on daytime flight arrivals. Meals (if) included are for two guests only. Selected resort facilities may be at an additional charge or payable direct. Seasonal surcharges apply. Blackout dates apply. Minimum/Maximum stay restrictions may apply. Subject to availability. Child policy may apply at some resorts. Strict deposit and cancellation conditions apply. Credit Card Service Fees apply. Prices and inclusions are correct at time of issue and are subject to change. Offers may be withdrawn at anytime without notice. All costs are in Australian Dollars. Please ensure you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements for your entire journey. Insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. We advise you to read full terms and conditions carefully.
Note: Images shown are indicative of room types and were correct when provided by our suppliers; individual rooms may vary in style and layout.
