This is a particularly attractive section of the canal. Around lunchtime, we are very close to La Bussière, an ancient abbey, founded by the Cistercians, within beautiful landscaped grounds.Guests who enjoy a little exercise can easily cycle to the abbey and rejoin Le Premier along the canal towpath. Alternatively, simply enjoy the cruise and visit the abbey by car later. We arrive in Pont d’Ouche in the late afternoon; here the canal crosses a small aqueduct as the river heads towards Bligny and the canal makes it’s way slowly upwards towards the summit.

After Pont d’Ouche, the canal passes through the stunning scenery of a very narrow gorge, which in previous times was clearly worked as a quarry. This morning, guests may visit the ancient town of Beaune. We meet the boat again at Crugey in time for lunch and continue towards Vandenesse. During the afternoon we catch glimpses of the fortified village of Châteauneuf perched high above, as the canal winds its’ way through the valley towards Vandenesse. The floodlit chateau stands guard over our mooring and is a spectacular setting for dinner on board.

This morning Le Premier climbs the final flight of locks to the summit of the Burgundy Canal through forests and fields. We pass an unusual section of canal populated by mannequins fishing from boats, climbing trees and doing the garden.
The eclusiers, the French lock keepers, are colourful characters, creating beautiful and ornately decorated houses and gardens. Some exhibit art or a small museum or sell their fresh produce such as eggs and honey.
After lunch a visit to the chateau at Commarin and watching the sunset from Chateauneuf are the ideal finale to your cruise of Burgundy. Time to enjoy cocktails and a farewell dinner on board Le Premier.