Belmond is set to relaunch one of its luxury boat hotels this summer.
The hospitality company, which is best known for its train services including the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, will be offering itineraries between Pontailler-sur-Saône and St Léger, Lyon and Auxonne, and St-Jean and Lyon on board Marguerite, A Belmond Boat, Burgundy.
Formerly known as Amaryllis, the newly revamped riverboat takes its name, and its design cues, from the region’s famed golden marguerite fields.
Able to accommodate up to eight guests, the boat has four double suites, an open-plan salon, and a private plunge pool on the outdoor deck.
“From the stained-glass mastery of Atelier Loire in Chartres to the fine woodwork crafted in Saint Rémy, Marguerite embodies a level of savoir-faire, deeply anchored in our national heritage,” says Maxime Brun, general manager of Les Bateaux Belmond.
“This is exactly what our guests seek with Les Bateaux Belmond: a genuine connection to our contemporary heritage, a sense of place, and authenticity that embodies our values. It is a testament to our ongoing commitment to slow luxury, where time is not simply spent, but invested.”
What to expect on board
Itineraries are completely customisable, but can include a mustard-making class in Dijon, tastings at wine estates, cycling along the Route des Grands Crus and curated art tours.
After a day of activities, guests can dig into a meal prepared by an onboard private chef, with a menu crafted by chef Dominique Crenn, whose restaurant Atelier Crenn has three Michelin stars.
The boat itself is filled with floral motifs and soft yellow hues, with stained glass and bespoke rugs that reflect the act of plucking daisy petals.
Belmond has a number of riverboats that form Les Bateaux Belmond, including Alouette in Bordeaux; Pivoine and Napoléon in Provence; and Fleur De Lys and Lilas in Burgundy.
Prices start from €85,100 for a private charter for up to eight guests.