Cruising the Burgundy Canal aboard hotel barge 'Litote' is to "time travel" through a land of endlessly-enchanting vistas. From Vandenesse-en-Auxois, through a landscape still guarded by the castles of the past, travel to Dijon, once the seat of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy. Along the way, opportunities for walking and biking along the towpaths, wine tastings and châteaux sightseeing make every day a delight.

Saturday:
Meet in Dijon and transfer to 'Litote,' moored at Vandenesse-en-Auxois. After an apéritif welcome, enjoy dinner on board.

Sunday:
This morning, visit the medieval village of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois and nearby Château de Commarin. Occupied by the same family for centuries, the Château is known for its decorative collection that includes a unique set of family heraldic tapestries. In the afternoon, cruise to Pont d'Ouche with excellent opportunities for walking and biking along the towpaths.

Monday:
This morning's cruise through the Vallée d'Ouche is to the pretty village of La Bussière. The canal actually runs through the part of the village known as "La Forge," with "La Bussière" and its beautifully tended abbey situated on the other side of the Ouche. Later, drive through scenic countryside to Meursault in the Côte de Beaune for a private tasting of the area's prestigious white wine, known for the rarity of being both dry and mellow at the same time.

Tuesday:
Spend the morning exploring Dijon, once the stronghold of the Dukes of Burgundy and still the regional capital. A guided tour of the historic city center includes a stop at the Ducal Palace and time to wander the open market - perhaps to purchase a jar of the city's namesake mustard. Afterward, return to 'Litote,' where lunch is served on board before the afternoon cruise to the village of Gissey.

Wednesday:
Cruising through the pastoral countryside, 'Litote' arrives at Fleurey. After lunch, visit Beaune, Burgundy's wine capital. Your guided visit includes the famous 15th-century charity hospital, Hôtel-Dieu, probably the finest example of late medieval architecture in existence, complete with a stunning 17th-century mural. Return to the barge for dinner on board.

Thursday:
After a morning cruise to the port of Dijon, take an excursion to Clos de Vougeot, a wine-making center since the 12th century. The great wine cellar and cuverie (the place where pressing and vinification take place) - as well as the antique wine presses - are impressive testaments to the age-old process of wine making. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner aboard your barge.

Friday:
After breakfast, your tour ends in Dijon.

Note: This route is run in reverse on alternate weeks.

Length: 128 feet Width: 17 feet Passengers: 20 Crew: 7 Cabins: 4 doubles (2 on upper deck) 6 twins (2 on upper deck) All outside facing staterooms with en-suite bathrooms

For more information on any of the fabulous A&K Barge Tours drop us a note or call Rex Travel at 800-777-7739