France: Alsace-Lorraine Cruise Itinerary: Strasbourg to Nancy
Alsace-Lorraine is a unique corner of France. Discover a land of storybook castles, rolling vineyards of Alsatian wines as well as Baroque, Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The area’s unique blend of French and German influences are strongly evident in its customs, cuisine, wines, architecture and language.
Sunday, Day 1 - Strasbourg
Guests are met in Strasbourg and transferred to the barge mooring in Hochfelden where we enjoy a champagne welcome. You'll have the afternoon to relax and enjoy barge life in readiness for your first gourmet dinner on board.
Monday, Day 2 - Strasbourg to Saverne
Before we begin our cruise today, we take a tour of Strasbourg, visiting the folk museum and the 11th century Gothic cathedral, leaving enough time to explore the fine shops. After lunch we take a lovely afternoon cruise on to Saverne. Dinner on board.
Tuesday, Day 3 - Saverne to Lutzelbourg
After breakfast we wind through the heart of Saverne, past the regal 18th century Bishops Palace and then through the Zorn Valley where surrounding hilltops are dotted with the ruins of feudal castles to Lutzelbourg. We enjoy an afternoon drive along the Route du Vin d’Alsace through the old fortified town of Obernai and visit one of the local winegrowers to taste some of the best Alsatian wines on offer. Dinner on board.
Wednesday, Day 4 - Lutzelbourg to Sarrebourg
Enjoy breakfast as we continue along the canal, gradually climbing to reach the crest of the Vosges Mountains. After navigating two tunnels carved into the mountaintop, we will encounter the Arzviller boat elevator. This unique lock allows a barge to glide effortlessly up or down the mountainside using a sophisticated system of weights and balances. A short drive along the way will take us to one of the local Cristalleries where fine crystal is still blown by hand and then continue to Sarrebourg to see the famous Chagal stained glass windows. Dinner on board.
Thursday, Day 5 - Schneckenbush to Crevic
This morning we cruise past farms and pasturelands and take a short drive to the privately owned Chateau de Fleville. This graceful Renaissance residence adjoins a 14th century castle keep. The interiors are richly furnished with 18th century antiques. We then return to the barge, which will be moored in the peaceful town of Crevic. Dinner on board.
Friday, Day 6 - Crevic to Nancy
We enjoy a leisurely cruise this morning to Nancy. After Lunch on board, we take a walking tour of the city beginning at the elegant Place Stanislas. Flanked by handsome Baroque palaces and enclosed by ornate gold and wrought iron gates, the square is considered one of the grandest in all of France. The Art Nouveau movement originated in Nancy and we have the opportunity to visit the Musee de l’Ecole de Nancy to see its fine collection. We moor in Nancy tonight where we enjoy the Captain's farewell dinner on board.
Saturday, Day 7 - Nancy
After breakfast, disembark La Nouvelle Etoile and transfer to your drop-off location in Strasbourg.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The itinerary is in reverse direction on alternative weeks.
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