Champagne / Brie Cruise Itinerary: Epernay to Paris

The Champagne region starts around 75 miles from Paris, around the city of Meaux and stretches along the beautiful River Marne to the city of Epernay, home of such renowned Champagne houses as Moet & Chandon.

Sunday, Day 1 - Epernay

You are met in Paris and transferred to the barge moored in the Cumieres where you will enjoy a wonderful champagne welcome. There will be time in the afternoon to stroll around Cumieres. Tonight you will enjoy the first of many gourmet meals on board.

Monday, Day 2 - Epernay to Damery

Cruise along the Marne River, taking you through the vine covered hills dotted with small wine villages to the delightful town of Damery. There will be an afternoon visit to the vast cellars of Moet Chandon where we will receive a private tasting. We then go on to Reims for a visit to the cathedral and a walk around the town.

Tuesday, Day 3 - Damery to Chateau Thierry

A morning cruise to Chateau Thierry, and visit Belleau Wood, the scene of American battles in World War I. In the afternoon we visit one of the small family vineyards to taste its wonderful champagne.

Wednesday, Day 4 - Chateau Thierry to La Ferte

From Chateaux Thierry we will cruise to the beautiful town of La Ferte, here we will visit Coulomniers, one of the centers of brie cheese making. Visit a master cheese maker for tasting of the various Bries, along with wines from the excellent cellars.

Thursday, Day 5 - La Ferte to Meaux

There will be a morning cruise from La Ferte to Meaux. Here we will shop and enjoy the lovely town with a visit to the cathedral. There is also a little known Le Notre garden behind the cathedral that you will want to see.

Friday, Day 6 - Meaux to Paris

Today we enjoy a wonderful cruise into Paris, along the way we visit the magnificent Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte and later meet up with the barge for an afternoon cruise into the heart of Paris. We moor for the night in the Latin Quarter, where we enjoy our last gourmet dinner and farewell party on board.

Saturday, Day 7 - Paris

After breakfast, disembark La Nouvelle Etoile and transfer to Paris.

Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The itinerary is in reverse direction on alternative weeks.