Little Gems of the Seine: Between Bucolic Stopovers and Royal Shores The Majestic Seine Aboard a Paddle-Wheel Boat (port-to-port cruise)

Depart on foot from the boat for an exploration of La Roche-Guyon and its château.
Nestled between the banks of the Seine and an imposing chalk cliff, La Roche-Guyon is ranked among the most beautiful villages in France. Your visit will begin with the discovery of its château, an architectural masterpiece blending medieval and classical styles. The fortified tower, perched atop the cliff, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding valley.

You will then explore the château’s historic rooms, each bearing witness to its rich past, before strolling through the magnificent French-style gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. With their symmetrical pathways and flower beds, these gardens also feature vegetable patches and medicinal plants. The visit will continue with a leisurely walk through the village’s picturesque streets, where the timeless charm of old houses and bucolic landscapes will immerse you in an atmosphere steeped in history and serenity.

Return on foot to the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure by coach from Saint-Mammès towards Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, a charming village on the banks of the Seine.

Steeped in history, this medieval gem will transport you through the centuries. Surrounded by ancient ramparts and dominated by the majestic Porte de Bourgogne, the town bears witness to its strategic role in the Middle Ages. You will also be captivated by the Notre-Dame Church, a symbol of the town’s religious significance. Once favored by the kings of France, Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne became an artistic hub in the 19th century, thanks in particular to the impressionist painter Alfred Sisley. His paintings immortalized the landscapes of the region, which you will admire firsthand as you stroll through the village.

As you wander its cobbled streets, you will discover timber-framed houses and picturesque watermills that add to its undeniable charm.

The visit will continue at the Château Rosa Bonheur, the former residence of the renowned animal painter. You will explore her well-preserved studio, where she created her masterpieces, and immerse yourself in her unique artistic world. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, this exceptional site offers a deep dive into the life and art of this pioneering 19th-century female artist.

Return to the boat by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Join us on a guided tour of Fontainebleau for a look at its historic château, gorgeous town squares, lavish theater, and magnificent church. This tour reveals the secrets and anecdotes of times gone by. We’ll then visit the castle and its vast estate, the veritable stomping grounds for French sovereigns for over eight centuries. The gardens themselves are a work of art that evokes that glory of royal France. After our tour, we will return on board the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• Only on pre-booking.

You will leave the boat by coach to travel to the home of Claude Monet. He lived in his Giverny home between 1830 and 1926. His passion for gardening and colors led him to conceive his flowers garden as a true art piece. He even said: "It took a while for me to understand my waterlilies... I grew them without thinking of painting them... A landscape doesn't sink in in one day... And all of a sudden the enchantments of my pond struck me. I took my palette. Since then, I've never had any other model." You can still feel the atmosphere that once reigned in the master of Impressionnism's house when visiting it. You will discover the pink facade while penetrating the garden. Inside, the artist's particular taste for warm tones will strike you, from the intensity of the blue he chose for his kitchen as well as his small living room, to the the yellow walls and furniture in the dining room, where you will also be able to see his private collection of Japanese prints. We'll be back on board in Vernon late afternoon.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• According to the weather, you may visit the American Museum of Giverny which exhibits Monet's paintings (extra charge of 4€).
• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.

Hop aboard your sidecar alongside a Gentleman Sider (a local guide dressed in vintage attire) for an unforgettable experience. You will discover the must-see sights as well as hidden gems of Paris. Comfortable and safe: helmet, goggles, blanket, and poncho (if needed) are provided. Photo breaks and a short walking stop will also be part of the program. Maximum of 2 passengers per vehicle: one in the bucket seat, the other behind the driver (possibility to switch seats halfway through). Accessible from 3 to 99 years old! Pick-up and drop-off at the embarkation point.

PLEASE NOTE

• Ensure you have appropriate equipment.
• Valid for 2 people. For 1 person, please contact us.

Travel through time in the heart of Paris: the Ile de la Cité. Once known as Lutetia, l’Ile was the predecessor of present-day Paris. Impressive remains of the ancient city can still be seen, of which Notre Dame, though bruised, still is the most famous symbol. As you stroll around the city, you can admire magnificent monuments bearing witness to a bygone era: the Sainte-Chappelle, the Conciergerie, the Palais de Justice as well as the Place Dauphine and the mythical Pont Neuf. You’ll be captivated by the history found on the banks of the Seine River and across its bridges.

PLEASE NOTE

• For optimal organization of your excursion, the order of the visits can be modified.
• Times are approximate and can change according to navigational conditions.

We’ll leave by coach for a visit to the splendid Vaux-le-Vicomte Château. Nicolas Fouquet transformed the small castle he purchased in 1641 into the masterpiece it is today. To achieve this dream, he brought together architect Louis Le Vau, painter Charles Le Brun, and landscaper André Le Notre. The result is an unparalleled work of harmony and beauty.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.