C’est la Vie – Upper Loire
Chatillon sur Loire to Montargis
Maximum Capacity: 8 Guests
Available April-June and September-October
Briare Canal and Latéral to the Loire Canal
Highlights of this beautiful itinerary include visits to Sancerre winery, Canal bridge of Briare, Château St Fargeau, Faïencerie of Gien, Château La Bussière, Montargis and dinner at “Auberge les Templiers” a 1 star Michelin restaurant.
The Upper Loire Valley, known for its exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes, offers an enchanting experience for all who venture into its picturesque realms. This region, located in central France, is celebrated for its diverse terroirs and the production of exceptional wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The charming towns and villages scattered throughout the valley, such as Sancerre and Pouilly-sur-Loire, invite visitors to explore their quaint streets, historic sites, and vibrant local markets.
Sancerre, perched on a hilltop, is renowned not only for its stunning views of the vineyards but also for its rich winemaking heritage. Here, the chalky soils contribute to the distinctive minerality of its wines, making them a favorite among connoisseurs. Meanwhile, Pouilly-sur-Loire boasts the esteemed Pouilly-Fumé wines, celebrated for their smoky notes and crisp acidity, which pair beautifully with the region’s culinary specialties.
The lush vineyards of the Upper Loire Valley are framed by the meandering Loire River, creating a picturesque backdrop for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The traditional winemaking techniques passed down through generations reflect the dedication and passion of the local vintners. As visitors sample the region’s wines, they can also indulge in local delicacies such as goat cheese, fresh fish, and seasonal produce, enhancing their gastronomic journey.
With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, the Upper Loire Valley captivates all who explore its enchanting landscapes and savor its remarkable wines. Whether wandering through its vineyards or enjoying a leisurely tasting, this region promises an unforgettable experience steeped in elegance and charm.
Day 1: SUNDAY
Welcome to the C’est la Vie moored in Chatillon sur Loire on the Canal Lateral to the Loire.
After the traditional champagne welcome from Captain and crew, there is time to unpack and take a stroll around the town before enjoying the first of many gourmet dinners on board.
DAY 2 MONDAY
SANCERRE
Cruise to Ouzouer sur Trézée
On our way, this morning we cruise to the town of Ouzouer sur Trézée, crossing over the Loire River at Briare on the “Pont Canal”, this aqueduct was designed by Gustave Eiffel and construction started in 1890 and it opened in 1896.
After lunch we take a short drive through the vineyards to visit the fortified town of Sancerre, this hilltop medieval site gives you panoramic views over the Loire River and of the neighbouring vineyards of Pouilly Fumé,
Take a stroll around the town before you taste some of this exceptional wine, made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. We head back to the C’est La Vie for cocktails and dinner.
DAY 3, TUESDAY
CHATEAU OF ST FARGEAU
Cruise to Rogny les Sept Ecluse
This morning’s cruise takes us from Ouzouer sur Trézée, to Rogny les Spet Ecluse. As we start to climb the hill there are plenty of walking opportunities and a 5k stretch where you can just sit back and relax before we start our decent into Rogny. Take a walk by the 7 old locks and marvel at this feet of engineering from the 17C, a perfect photo spot. The buffet lunch can be served on deck, weather permitting.
The Château of St Fargeau is this afternoon’s destination, dating from the 10th century; it was built by the bishop of Auxerre and has undergone many additions and restorations over the following years. Its history is intertwined with revolutions and plots to overthrow the young king Louis XIV.
Dinner aboard C’est la Vie this evening.
DAY 4, WEDNESDAY
FAIENCERIE OF GIEN
Cruise to Chatillon Coligny
From Rogny, after breakfast we drive to the town of Gien, the world-famous centre for French table ware, after a visit to the pottery, take a walk through this market town and discover its remarkable history, on the banks of the Loire River there has been a settlement here since Romans times.
Back on board for lunch and an afternoon cruise, with numerous locks to go through there is plenty of opportunities to walk or bike alongside the boat on the towpaths that follow the canal. Arriving to the town of Chatillon Coligny there is time to take a stroll around this charming town before dinner aboard the C’est la Vie.
DAY 5, THURSDAY
CHATEAU OF LA BUSSIERE
Cruise to Montcresson
If you haven’t already put on your walking shoes, now is the perfect time as we cruise to the village of Montcresson. After lunch you will be driven to the Château of La Bussiere, it is a prime example of a medieval fortress built in the 12th Century. Open to the public since 1962, when the Count Henri de Chasseval decided to exhibit his extensive collection of material and pieces of art from around the world about fishing, but it’s not all about fishing, there are the grounds to visit, a 18th century vegetable garden designed by Andre La Note, and a 300-year-old Lebanon Cedar tree and much more.
Returning to the C’est la Vie in time to prepare for your dinner ashore at “Auberge Les Templiers” a 1-star Michelin restaurant. Once a stopping point for the knights Templer on their way to the crusades.
DAY 6, FRIDAY
MONTARGIS
Cruise to Montargis
Meandering along the canal from Montcresson to Montargis, which is our last port of call, with its 131 bridges you can see why its nick name is “little Venice”, after lunch take a stroll around and discover the feudal castle, the church, the half-timbered buildings, shops, and cafes. With a visit to the home of Pralines, the shop Mazet is where you will see how they are made and even have a go yourself. The recipe dates from the early 17C.
The C’est La Vie awaits your return for the captain’s dinner, which ends your cruise in style.
DAY 7, SATURDAY
Return to Paris
After breakfast, you will be chauffeured back to Paris for the end of the morning. We look forward to your company again on the “C’est la Vie”!
| C'est la Vie - 2025 | ||
| US Pricing | ||
| Value | Regular | |
| Stateroom Per Person | $ 7,900 | $ 8,500 |
| Single Supplement | $ 4,000 | $ 5,000 |
| Charter for 6 passengers | $ 54,000 | $ 59,400 |
| Charter for 7 passengers | $ 58,100 | $ 62,300 |
| Charter for 8 passengers | $ 61,600 | $ 66,000 |
| *Value Season is April 6 - April 26, Oct 19 - Nov 1 |
| C'est la Vie - 2026 | ||
| US Pricing | ||
| Value | Regular | |
| Stateroom Per Person | $ 7,900 | $ 8,500 |
| Single Supplement | $ 4,000 | $ 5,000 |
| Charter for 6 passengers | $ 54,000 | $ 59,400 |
| Charter for 7 passengers | $ 58,100 | $ 62,300 |
| Charter for 8 passengers | $ 61,600 | $ 66,000 |
| *Value Season is April 5-25, Oct 18-31 |
Price includes:
- 6 nights all inclusive charter cruise starts in Paris with a private mini bus pick up at a hotel of your choice. (At one hotel mutually agreed upon by the group). You are driven to the C’est La Vie, where a warm welcome awaits you.
- The package includes all meals from Sunday dinner to Saturday breakfast, wines and other beverages, (alcoholic and non alcoholic).
- – Breakfast: Buffet style consists of cereals, bread and pastries, cold meats, cheese, fresh fruit, yoghurts, tea/coffee and juices.
– Lunch: Also buffet style consists of a variety of salads, a hot dish and a selection of cheeses: fruit, coffee and biscuits.
– Dinner: A four course meal starts with an entrée, followed by the main course, a selection of cheeses and then dessert and coffee. - Both lunch and dinner are served with white and red wines from the best wine producing regions of France.
- The guided visits and restaurants indicated in the cruise itinerary are included.
- Limited laundry service available.
Not included:
- Airfares to and from France
- Travel insurance
- Crew gratuities
- Balloon flights
