Coquelicot: Sillery to Épernay

Board Coquelicot in Sillery and prepare to see Champagne from a fresh perspective. Your effervescent cruise begins with a champagne reception, the perfect chance to meet your dedicated captain and crew. Unpack and explore your intimate sanctuary, noticing delightful details such as fluted walls, sparkling finishes and subtle red poppies – in reference to Coquelicot’s namesake. On deck, discover a choice of spaces to unwind, softened by antique lighting, potted herbs and wildflowers. Soon, take your seat in the dining area for your first gourmet dinner of the week. 

Enjoy a picturesque morning cruise, relaxing to the rhythm of the water as you absorb the tranquil scenery from on deck. After lunch on board, alight for a thrilling visit to Veuve Clicquot. One of the most celebrated champagne houses in the world, it was named after the widow (veuve) who took over her husband’s wine business at the tender age of 27 and rescued it from the brink of failure. She was to become one of the world’s first international businesswomen. Plunge into the atmospheric underground cellars that stretch deep into the crayères, or chalk pits, for over 24km and glean fascinating facts about this most hallowed of marques. Return to the barge for dinner.

Linger over breakfast as Coquelicot heads towards the serene village of Condé-sur-Marne, tonight’s mooring. Alight for lunch at the elegant Brasserie Le Jardin bistro, where Chef Philippe Mille’s renowned cuisine is inspired by the seasons and the Champagne region. Afterwards, continue to Reims (pronounced ranse), famous as a centre of champagne production but equally renowned for its soaring Gothic cathedral. It was here that, between 816 and 1825, some 34 French sovereigns were crowned. Immaculate, leafy boulevards, Roman remains and art deco cafés await exploration. Dinner tonight is served on board.

The day starts with a tour of Châlons-en-Champagne, whose rich heritage is evident in beautiful timber-framed buildings and splendid churches. Saint-Etienne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, houses stunning stained-glass windows while the Cloister of Notre-Dame-en-Vaux is remarkable for its statuary. Head to the colourful market with your chef, who will talk you through the luscious produce. Choose some ingredients that catch your eye and Chef will transform them into a feast back on board. Continue cruising on the tranquil canal and admire the picturesque scenery before disembarking for an enchanting champagne tasting at a small local producer. Return to the barge for dinner and captivating conversation beneath the stars.

This morning brings a unique highlight. Visit Taissy, the home of Ruinart champagne, for a rare, one-off experience curated between Belmond and Ruinart. The oldest established champagne house, dating from 1729, Ruinart embodies the French spirit of savoir faire and art de vivre. Accompanied by your guide, enjoy an exclusive tour of the vineyard and sample some exquisite champagnes. Then return to the barge for a spectacular five-course lunch created by Ruinart’s private chef and paired with specially selected vintages. Continue cruising to our evening mooring at Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. Dinner is served on board.

Today, as we sail towards Épernay, take advantage of the sedate pace to alight from the barge and stroll or cycle along the towpath. Disembark for a fascinating visit to Hautvillers Abbey. It was here that the monk Dom Pérignon accidentally discovered how to make champagne through the process of secondary fermentation. His tomb can be seen in the abbey, which also boasts spellbinding views over the vineyards. Enjoy a private tasting at a local champagne house, before exploring Épernay, the jewel of Champagne. Discover its elegant avenue, stretching nearly a kilometre and lined on both sides with magnificent mansions and prestigious champagne houses. Return to the barge and unwind over an aperitif before sitting down to a sumptuous farewell gala dinner.

Awake to enjoy an indulgent breakfast. After, the crew bids you a fond farewell as you disembark for your onward travel arrangements.