Uniworld Boutique River Cruises River Royale Castles and Vineyards of Southern Burgundy
By WAVEJourney
Viv & Jill cruised the Rhone & Saone Rivers aboard Uniworld’s luxury river cruise ship, River Royale, during a 2009 visit to France.
Optional Excursions: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises River Royale Castles and Vineyards of Southern Burgundy
Castles and Vineyards of Southern Burgundy
Where: Cote Chalonnaise
Duration: 4 hours with easy walking
Min. Participants: 25
Price: €53
Description: Driving through picturesque hamlets and pristine vineyards, you’ll first visit the village of Rully. The Countess, Madame de Ternay, will invite you inside the rustic castle, where her family have been living for many generations. Walking through the mansion, Madame de Ternay will tell you about the history of her family and their efforts to preserve their heritage.
Castles of Southern Burgundy
You will then head to the neighboring village of Mercurey to meet Monsieur Devillard, the owner of Chateau de Chamirey. He will welcome you to his elegant property, inspired by Italian architecture and built in the 18th century. For five generations, the family has been growing wine on a 95-acre vineyard planted in the rich soil of mercury.
Wine Tasting in Burgundy
You will see part of his vineyards from the overlooking terrace. The master wine maker will explain what makes great wine and will invite you to the cellar. During the wine tasting, you will discover the delicate flavors of 3 Mercurey wines, and the extreme care and passion behind the family wine making.
Visit a Wine Cellar in Burgundy
WJ’s notes:
How often do you get the chance to visit the private castle of a French Countess? Well, this is the first time for us and one that we found quite interesting.
We think this tour should be priced a bit lower, but overall we found it worthwhile and a great option if passengers do not want to spend the afternoon in Chalon-sur-Saone. Much of the scenery during the 20-minute coach ride through the Burgundy countryside is similar to what was viewed enroute to Beaune, but it does offer the chance to get a closer look at the lives of local business owners, see the inside of a chateau and experience wine tasting with a Burgundy wine maker. Don’t forget to tip the driver and tour guide.
WJ’s Review
– Overview | Itinerary | Cabins | Food & Wine | Crew & Service | Optional Excursions | Spa & Fitness | Fellow Passengers | Photos | Gratuities | Value & Bottom Line |
If You Go:
Contact Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Address:
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
17323 Ventura Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 91316
Toll Free Tel: 800-733-7820
Tel: 818-382-7820
Fax: 818-382-2709
Reservations:
Toll Free Tel: 800-555-8333
Email: [email protected]
Website: Click here.
