As the leading luxury hotel barge cruising company, we’re continuing to delight our guests with extraordinary culinary experiences that blend fine dining, cultural immersion, and the art of slow travel. From dining in a historic winemaker’s “cuve” to savouring meals in the private salons of châteaux, these elevated gastronomic adventures create a feast for the senses, offering guests a deeper connection to the heritage and flavours of Europe.
Our bespoke dining experiences take place at unique and historic locations, making every meal an unforgettable event:
Maison Champy
Enjoy a private wine tasting and exclusive lunch in the historic cellars of Burgundy’s oldest winery. Set amidst the UNESCO-listed Côte de Beaune vineyards, guests savour premier and grand cru wines followed by a gourmet lunch served in a former wooden wine vat.
Visit aboard Finesse in Southern Burgundy
Frerejean Frères
A tour and tasting at this boutique grand cru winery in the Côtes des Blancs village of Avize in Champagne culminates in a private lunch in the family’s elegant salon. En route, guests visit a picturesque vineyard to learn the nuances of champagne grape growing.
Visit aboard Kir Royale in Champagne
Villa Ca’Zen
Nestled along the River Po in Italy, this 17th-century stately home close to Venice is the setting for an intimate dinner hosted by its current owner, a Baroness. Guests experience an enchanting evening where Lord Byron once penned his famous poetry.
Visit aboard La Bella Vita in Venice
Domaine Chanson
In the heart of Burgundy’s wine capital, Beaune, guests tour the 15th-century Bastion de l’Oratoire, whose thick stone walls create the perfect environment for aging wine. A private gastronomic lunch at the domaine’s château completes the enchanting experience.
Visit aboard L’Impressionniste in Southern Burgundy
Château de Ricey-Bas
A gourmet lunch with the Baron and Baroness awaits at this 12th-century château in Burgundy. Guests are welcomed with a champagne aperitif before dining in either the private salon or the 15th-century vaulted kitchen. The afternoon is spent exploring the château’s interiors and gardens.
Visit aboard La Belle Epoque in Northern Burgundy
Château Rosa Bonheur
This fascinating excursion celebrates the legacy of the celebrated 19th-century artist, Rosa Bonheur. Guests enjoy a four-course lunch in a private salon, hosted by the current owners, after a guided tour of the artist’s perfectly preserved studio, offering a rare glimpse into her controversial world, artistic achievements, and her unusual friendship with American showman, “Buffalo Bill” Cody.
Visit aboard Renaissance in Western Burgundy
Domaine Laroche
Immerse yourself in the history and flavours of Chablis during an exclusive visit to Domaine Laroche. Begin with a private tasting of Chablis and Petit Chablis wines, perfectly paired with insights into the region’s winemaking traditions. Continue with a guided tour of the ancient Obédiencerie, a 1,000-year-old landmark where the monks of St. Martin once honed their winemaking craft. The experience culminates in a gourmet lunch prepared by a private chef and served in the monks’ former refectory, offering a sublime blend of history, gastronomy, and fine wine.
Visit aboard L’Art de Vivre in Burgundy
Derek Banks, Managing Director says…
Fine dining aboard our luxury hotel barges has always been a hallmark of the European Waterways way. These curated experiences at historic locations enrich our guests’ journeys, allowing them to savour not only the finest regional cuisine but also the history and culture that inspires it.
Find Your Perfect Culinary Experience on a Luxury Barge Cruise
A host of incredible dining experiences are waiting to be had aboard our Classic Cruises where guests can book on an individual cabin basis, or as a private whole boat charter, offering an air of exclusivity and flexibility. This slow-paced style of relaxed exploration offers an unparalleled way to explore Europe’s culinary and cultural treasures at a pace to suit you!
Inspired? Contact our Cruise Team today and discuss availability. Alternatively, order a brochure to consider all of our cruise options!
