Belmond announces its most decadent cruise to date with the launch of its new “Epicurean Burgundy: A 12-star cruise” itinerary aboard luxury ‘Afloat in France’ barge

A bon vivant’s dream, the experience features a plethora of fine dining moments. Cruising through Burgundy and Beaujolais, from St-Jean-de-Losne to Lyon, guests are invited to dine at a different Michelin- starred restaurant each day – indulging with a total of 12 stars.

Departing on 9th August 2020 aboard Belmond Napoléon, guests will enjoy six different Michelin-starred restaurants throughout the week. The gourmand pitstops will range from one Michelin-starred to those that have been awarded the highest accolade of three.

Shine Bright: Loiseau des Viggnes & Aux Terrasses *

Located in Beaune, Loiseau des Viggnes was the first restaurant in Europe to offer an entire wine list by the glass. This restaurant serves up creations rich in local specialities designed by Executive Chef, Dominique Loiseau.

Hay-Smoked pigeon is one of the unexpected dishes on offer at Aux Terrasses from Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Michel Carrette.

Located in the centre of Tournus, Executive Chef, Jean-Michel took over from his father in the kitchen in 2005 and has developed an instinctive cuisine, using inherited techniques and adding his own flair with award winning levels of creativity and personality.

Make a wish: La Côte Saint-Jacques & Restaurant Paul Bocuse **

Situated just outside of Auxerre on the River Yonne, Jean- Michel Lorian’s La Côte Saint-Jacques conjures up beautifully colourful dishes which surprise in their exquisite simplicity. Guests can enjoy key dishes including Rosette of Lobster and Fresh Palm Nut Salad or Egg Parfait with White Alba Truffles and Puy Green Lentils.

On the last day of the cruise, guests will visit Lyon, the final dinner will take place at Restaurant Paul Bocuse – where items including Black Truffle Soup – created for French President Valaery Giscard d’Estaing in 1975 – are highlights of the menu.

The brightest: Maison Lameloise & Georges Blan ***

Maison Lameloise now boasting three-Michelin-stars, has been honouring traditional Burgundian heritage, with its exposed stone and wooden beams since 1921.

Guests on board Belmond Napoléon will enjoy lunch here with exquisite cuisine by Executive Chef, Eric Pras. Key dishes include a Burgundy snail tart, fresh garden salad and seasonal vegetables, fizzy pickled garlic and nettle coulis giving Burgundy cuisine a fresh and light feel.

Holding three Michelin stars since 1982, Georges Blanc, has built up a reputation for revisiting classics in impeccable style. Guests can try Bresse Chicken reimagined or a reworking of Vonnas pancakes.

A week of gastronomic memories

As well as visits to six Michelin-starred restaurants, highlights of the gastronomic week include a stop at the historic Clos de Vougeot where Cistercian monks first began making wine in the 12th Century, a private tour of the fabled Hotel-Dieu, venturing behind its splendid gothic façade to discover 500 years of Burgundian history and treasures and scenic cruising through the waterways of Burgundy including down the River Saone.

Guests will also have a chance to visit the French towns of Chalon-sur-Saone, Tournus and Lyon – considered a must go for those with a love of French cuisine and the new home of Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie.

Make it happen

Wallet: A week’s ‘Epicurean Burgundy: A 12 Star Cruise’ starts from €7,333 per person on an all-inclusive basis including all meals and a private transfer – based on 12 people travelling on board Belmond Napoléon.

When: The 2020 season begins on 21 March and ends on 18 October.

How: To book or for more information visit Belmond.comBelmond.com or call 0845 077 2222.