FRANCE - LYON & SOUTHERN BURGUNDY - May 19-29, 2026
Lyon & Southern Burgundy
May 19-29, 2026 — 10 Days, All-Inclusive
Lyon- one of the gastronomic capitals of the world. Home to truffles, morel mushrooms, Bresse chicken, Saint-André cheese, and exceptional Burgundy wines. A city rich in arts, culture, classic architecture, and the enduring legacy of Paul Bocuse.
Experience the very best of French food, wine, and culture on this immersive ten-day journey through Lyon and Southern Burgundy. Stay in exceptional accommodations—including a private 15th-century château—and dine at two Michelin-starred restaurants alongside visits to legendary culinary institutions, traditional bouchons, vibrant markets, and local producers. And at the heart of it all: cooking together.
Led by Chef Michael Howell, this is a deeply personal culinary adventure. Enjoy three nights in Lyon at the Carlton Hotel Lyon before settling into a stunning private estate in the Côte Chalonnaise for a full week. Explore wineries, history, markets, and fromageries by day, then gather each evening in your château kitchen to cook, share, and celebrate.
Arrivals and departures via Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), with direct daily flights from Montreal.
Cost
10 Days / 9 Nights — All-Inclusive
€6,995 per person, double occupancy all-inclusive (approx. US $7,995)
Single supplement: US $1,000
Itinerary subject to change.
What’s Included
Private transportation throughout • Airport transfers • Luxury accommodations • All meals, wines, and beverages • Exclusive tastings, tours, and admissions • Private guides and curated experiences
Not included: Airfare, travel insurance, and gratuities for external guides.
May 19-29, 2026 — 10 Days, All-Inclusive
Lyon- one of the gastronomic capitals of the world. Home to truffles, morel mushrooms, Bresse chicken, Saint-André cheese, and exceptional Burgundy wines. A city rich in arts, culture, classic architecture, and the enduring legacy of Paul Bocuse.
Experience the very best of French food, wine, and culture on this immersive ten-day journey through Lyon and Southern Burgundy. Stay in exceptional accommodations—including a private 15th-century château—and dine at two Michelin-starred restaurants alongside visits to legendary culinary institutions, traditional bouchons, vibrant markets, and local producers. And at the heart of it all: cooking together.
Led by Chef Michael Howell, this is a deeply personal culinary adventure. Enjoy three nights in Lyon at the Carlton Hotel Lyon before settling into a stunning private estate in the Côte Chalonnaise for a full week. Explore wineries, history, markets, and fromageries by day, then gather each evening in your château kitchen to cook, share, and celebrate.
Arrivals and departures via Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), with direct daily flights from Montreal.
Cost
10 Days / 9 Nights — All-Inclusive
€6,995 per person, double occupancy all-inclusive (approx. US $7,995)
Single supplement: US $1,000
Itinerary subject to change.
What’s Included
Private transportation throughout • Airport transfers • Luxury accommodations • All meals, wines, and beverages • Exclusive tastings, tours, and admissions • Private guides and curated experiences
Not included: Airfare, travel insurance, and gratuities for external guides.
✨ LAST-MINUTE OPPORTUNITY ✨
Due to a recent cancellation, one spot has just opened for
two travellers sharing a room.
Special Rate: €5,995 per person (double occupancy)
Don’t miss your chance to join this unforgettable culinary journey!
Day One
Tuesday, May 19
Arrival in Lyon
Your journey begins at the elegant Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery Collection, where we’ll spend three unforgettable nights in the heart of the city. Check-in is available from 3:00 pm—take time to relax or enjoy a first stroll through Lyon. We’ll gather in the lobby at 6:00 pm before heading out for our welcome dinner at Chez Pimousse. Here, acclaimed chef Pierre Michael Martin—a friend of Michael Howell—welcomes us to his kitchen. Recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, his cuisine sets the tone for the extraordinary culinary
experiences ahead.
Your journey begins at the elegant Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery Collection, where we’ll spend three unforgettable nights in the heart of the city. Check-in is available from 3:00 pm—take time to relax or enjoy a first stroll through Lyon. We’ll gather in the lobby at 6:00 pm before heading out for our welcome dinner at Chez Pimousse. Here, acclaimed chef Pierre Michael Martin—a friend of Michael Howell—welcomes us to his kitchen. Recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, his cuisine sets the tone for the extraordinary culinary
experiences ahead.
Day two
Wednesday, May 20
Markets, History & Classic Dining
After breakfast, Michael Howell leads the group to the iconic Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse—an elevated culinary destination founded by legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Here, we’ll enjoy a relaxed, grazing-style lunch, sampling the very best this extraordinary market has to offer. In the afternoon, we return to central Lyon for a guided walking tour with local expert Maude. Wander through the city’s stunning streets, climb to the heights of the historic west bank, and conclude at the magnificent Lyon Cathedral. After some time to refresh at the hotel, we head out for dinner at the legendary Brasserie Georges, where you’ll experience a true Lyonnais meal in grand, historic surroundings before returning for the evening.
After breakfast, Michael Howell leads the group to the iconic Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse—an elevated culinary destination founded by legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Here, we’ll enjoy a relaxed, grazing-style lunch, sampling the very best this extraordinary market has to offer. In the afternoon, we return to central Lyon for a guided walking tour with local expert Maude. Wander through the city’s stunning streets, climb to the heights of the historic west bank, and conclude at the magnificent Lyon Cathedral. After some time to refresh at the hotel, we head out for dinner at the legendary Brasserie Georges, where you’ll experience a true Lyonnais meal in grand, historic surroundings before returning for the evening.
day Three
THURSDAY, May 21
More Markets & a Legendary Farewell
On our final day in Lyon, we begin at the vibrant Saint-Antoine Market Lyon along the banks of the Saône. Here, we’ll browse, snack on local specialties, and gather provisions for the week ahead—enjoying a relaxed, market-style lunch from the many exceptional vendors. From there, we head to Le Poêlon d’Or, a classic bouchon, for a traditional Lyonnais lunch. The late afternoon is yours to explore, shop, or simply unwind. In the evening, we culminate our time in Lyon with an extraordinary dining experience at the iconic Restaurant Paul Bocuse. Here, you’ll enjoy the renowned “Traditional” tasting menu—an unforgettable, two-Michelin-star celebration
of French gastronomy.
On our final day in Lyon, we begin at the vibrant Saint-Antoine Market Lyon along the banks of the Saône. Here, we’ll browse, snack on local specialties, and gather provisions for the week ahead—enjoying a relaxed, market-style lunch from the many exceptional vendors. From there, we head to Le Poêlon d’Or, a classic bouchon, for a traditional Lyonnais lunch. The late afternoon is yours to explore, shop, or simply unwind. In the evening, we culminate our time in Lyon with an extraordinary dining experience at the iconic Restaurant Paul Bocuse. Here, you’ll enjoy the renowned “Traditional” tasting menu—an unforgettable, two-Michelin-star celebration
of French gastronomy.
Your Private Château in Southern Burgundy: Day 4-10 Accommodations
For one unforgettable week, enjoy exclusive access to the majestic Château Montsymond—your own private estate nestled in the Southern Burgundy countryside, just 30 minutes from Mâcon.
From this stunning home base, we’ll explore the region’s rich culinary and cultural landscape. Day trips include Beaune—home to the famed Hospices de Beaune—where we’ll taste some of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs, as well as visits to Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon for vibrant markets, elegant lunches, and a taste of living history. We’ll time our visit to the renowned market in Louhans to source the legendary Bresse chicken and ingredients for a truly regal meal back at the château.
Along the way, we’ll visit acclaimed wineries including Maison Marigny and Domaine des Deux Roches, shop for artisanal cheeses directly from local farms, and savour the rhythm of life in a historic château setting. We’ll conclude the week with an extraordinary farewell dinner at Michelin-starred Aux Terrasses before departing for Lyon airport the following morning.
For one unforgettable week, enjoy exclusive access to the majestic Château Montsymond—your own private estate nestled in the Southern Burgundy countryside, just 30 minutes from Mâcon.
From this stunning home base, we’ll explore the region’s rich culinary and cultural landscape. Day trips include Beaune—home to the famed Hospices de Beaune—where we’ll taste some of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs, as well as visits to Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon for vibrant markets, elegant lunches, and a taste of living history. We’ll time our visit to the renowned market in Louhans to source the legendary Bresse chicken and ingredients for a truly regal meal back at the château.
Along the way, we’ll visit acclaimed wineries including Maison Marigny and Domaine des Deux Roches, shop for artisanal cheeses directly from local farms, and savour the rhythm of life in a historic château setting. We’ll conclude the week with an extraordinary farewell dinner at Michelin-starred Aux Terrasses before departing for Lyon airport the following morning.
Day FOUR
Friday, May 22
DAY FIVE
Saturday, MAY 23
DAY SIX
SuNDAY, MAY 24
We bid adieu to Lyon and enjoy a short scenic drive to Mâcon sur Sâone. You are invited to join Michael for our provisioning expedition to a giant French food store or alternatively relax at La Fraternité, a cafe on the riverfront. After our 'Shop Hungry' grocery foray we go for a relaxed bistro lunch at La Tete de Lard on the Saône waterfront.
From there, it’s just 30 minutes to our home for the week: the magnificent Château de Montsymond, nestled near the medieval hamlet of Vescours. Built in 1571 and beautifully restored, this private château sits on 17 acres and offers the perfect base to explore Southern Burgundy—or simply stay and indulge. Enjoy amenities including a heated pool, sauna, billiards room, walking paths, pond, games room, fitness space, and even mini putt. Settle in that afternoon before Michael Howell prepares a regal Burgundian dinner. Join in the kitchen or unwind with a swim, then gather for aperitifs and a memorable evening in this extraordinary setting.
From there, it’s just 30 minutes to our home for the week: the magnificent Château de Montsymond, nestled near the medieval hamlet of Vescours. Built in 1571 and beautifully restored, this private château sits on 17 acres and offers the perfect base to explore Southern Burgundy—or simply stay and indulge. Enjoy amenities including a heated pool, sauna, billiards room, walking paths, pond, games room, fitness space, and even mini putt. Settle in that afternoon before Michael Howell prepares a regal Burgundian dinner. Join in the kitchen or unwind with a swim, then gather for aperitifs and a memorable evening in this extraordinary setting.
Cluny Abbey & Burgundian Wines
Enjoy a relaxed morning and traditional French breakfast before setting out to explore the remarkable Cluny Abbey. On a guided tour, discover the rich history of this extraordinary site—once among the most powerful monastic centres in Europe, and home to the largest church in the world until the construction of St. Peter’s in Rome. Following a leisurely lunch at the Michelin recommended Hostellerie D'Heloïse, we continue to the vineyards of Domaine Balandras, a charming family-run estate known for its elegant wines. We return to Château Montsymond in the evening to relax, enjoy a glass of wine, and gather for another memorable dinner together.
Enjoy a relaxed morning and traditional French breakfast before setting out to explore the remarkable Cluny Abbey. On a guided tour, discover the rich history of this extraordinary site—once among the most powerful monastic centres in Europe, and home to the largest church in the world until the construction of St. Peter’s in Rome. Following a leisurely lunch at the Michelin recommended Hostellerie D'Heloïse, we continue to the vineyards of Domaine Balandras, a charming family-run estate known for its elegant wines. We return to Château Montsymond in the evening to relax, enjoy a glass of wine, and gather for another memorable dinner together.
A Day at Leisure: Château or Chalon-sur-SaôneToday is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Begin with a light brunch prepared by Michael Howell, then choose to relax at Château Montsymond—unwinding in the gardens, pool, and surrounding grounds—or join us for an optional afternoon outing. For those seeking a bit of adventure, we’ll head into Chalon-sur-Saône to explore its lively Sunday market, gathering fresh ingredients for the evening’s meal. We’ll also visit the fascinating Musée Denon for a guided tour, home to an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. After time to stroll the town, we return to the château, where we’ll come together to prepare and enjoy a beautiful dinner showcasing the flavours of France.
DAY SEVEN
MONDAY, MAY 25
Louhans Market & Beaujolais Wines
Today is a true celebration of Burgundy’s culinary heritage. We begin at the renowned market in Louhans, famous for its exceptional produce—including the legendary Bresse chicken. Wander the stalls, sample local specialties, and enjoy a relaxed market lunch in this charming town. In the afternoon, we journey through the rolling countryside to Domaine André Colonge et Fils for a tasting at this highly regarded estate, known for expressive wines that capture the essence of Beaujolais. We return to Château Montsymond with our market finds and vineyard treasures, ready to create a seasonal, market-driven dinner—shared with special guests for an unforgettable evening.
DAY EIGHT
TUESDAY, MAY 26
A Day at Leisure at the Château
Today is yours to fully enjoy the pleasures of Château Montsymond. Play a game of boules, cast a line in the pond, or unwind with poker, darts, or chess. Prefer something more active? Take advantage of the fitness room, pool, or sauna. Meanwhile, Michael Howell will be in the kitchen preparing a spectacular feast. This evening, we gather for a grand, elegant dinner—so dress the part and get ready for a truly memorable night.
TUESDAY, MAY 26
A Day at Leisure at the Château
Today is yours to fully enjoy the pleasures of Château Montsymond. Play a game of boules, cast a line in the pond, or unwind with poker, darts, or chess. Prefer something more active? Take advantage of the fitness room, pool, or sauna. Meanwhile, Michael Howell will be in the kitchen preparing a spectacular feast. This evening, we gather for a grand, elegant dinner—so dress the part and get ready for a truly memorable night.
DAY NINE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27
Beaune — The Heart of Burgundy
After breakfast, we take a scenic one-hour drive to Beaune, the historic capital of Burgundy. Here, we’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the iconic Hospices de Beaune—a centuries-old landmark deeply tied to the region’s wine heritage. We’ll sample local specialties, stroll the charming streets, and soak in the rich history of this remarkable town. In the afternoon, we visit the esteemed Maison Champy for a tasting of exceptional Burgundy wines. We return to Château de Montsymond for a relaxed evening and light supper.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27
Beaune — The Heart of Burgundy
After breakfast, we take a scenic one-hour drive to Beaune, the historic capital of Burgundy. Here, we’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the iconic Hospices de Beaune—a centuries-old landmark deeply tied to the region’s wine heritage. We’ll sample local specialties, stroll the charming streets, and soak in the rich history of this remarkable town. In the afternoon, we visit the esteemed Maison Champy for a tasting of exceptional Burgundy wines. We return to Château de Montsymond for a relaxed evening and light supper.
DAY TEN
THURSDAY, MAY 28
Château Leisure & A Michelin-Star Farewell
Enjoy a relaxed morning at Château Montsymond—perhaps a stroll through its 17 acres of peaceful parkland, or simply time to unwind and take in the beauty of the estate. At midday, we head just minutes away for a memorable farm-to-table lunch at Ferme Auberge du Colombier, where regional traditions and local ingredients shine. Return to the château in the afternoon to relax and prepare for the evening. We then gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at Michelin-starred Aux Terrasses—a refined and unforgettable finale to our journey through Burgundy.
THURSDAY, MAY 28
Château Leisure & A Michelin-Star Farewell
Enjoy a relaxed morning at Château Montsymond—perhaps a stroll through its 17 acres of peaceful parkland, or simply time to unwind and take in the beauty of the estate. At midday, we head just minutes away for a memorable farm-to-table lunch at Ferme Auberge du Colombier, where regional traditions and local ingredients shine. Return to the château in the afternoon to relax and prepare for the evening. We then gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at Michelin-starred Aux Terrasses—a refined and unforgettable finale to our journey through Burgundy.
DAY ELEVEN
FRIDAY, MAY 29
Departures
After a warm and fond farewell to Château Montsymond—and the friendships, meals, and memories we’ve shared—we make our way to Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport for our return journey. Our morning transfer will have us arriving at the airport around 10:00 am. We recommend booking departing flights after 12:00 pm to allow for a comfortable check-in. As you head home, we hope you carry with you a taste of Burgundy, new connections, and stories that will linger long after the journey ends.
FRIDAY, MAY 29
Departures
After a warm and fond farewell to Château Montsymond—and the friendships, meals, and memories we’ve shared—we make our way to Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport for our return journey. Our morning transfer will have us arriving at the airport around 10:00 am. We recommend booking departing flights after 12:00 pm to allow for a comfortable check-in. As you head home, we hope you carry with you a taste of Burgundy, new connections, and stories that will linger long after the journey ends.