The full-day Pommery small group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Reims and the renowned Champagne region. Guests can discover the majestic Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the renowned Pommery cellars to learn the intricate process of Champagne production. With a flexible cancellation policy and a focus on personalized experiences, this tour provides an immersive journey through the heart of the Champagne countryside. But there’s more to uncover, as the tour also includes a visit to the historic Hautvillers Abbey, associated with the legendary Dom Pérignon, and a tasting at a boutique Champagne producer. This well-curated experience promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich history and exceptional quality of this iconic French wine region.
Key Points
- Full-day small group tour (max 8 participants) exploring Reims Cathedral, Pommery Champagne cellars, Hautvillers Abbey, and boutique Champagne producers.
- Convenient pickup from Reims train station or hotel, with wheelchair accessibility and elimination of transportation logistics.
- Guided visits and tastings at renowned Pommery cellars and a boutique Champagne producer, offering insights into the Champagne production process.
- Exploration of the historic Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and traditional site of French royal coronations.
- Includes Epernay break and lunch, allowing guests to immerse in the Champagne region’s culture and cuisine.
Tour Duration and Cancellation Policy
The Pommery Small Group Tour offers a full-day excursion that lasts 8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests flexibility in their travel plans.
This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the renowned Champagne region without the hassle of organizing transportation and logistics.
The small group size, limited to just 8 participants, ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
With a convenient pickup from the Reims train station or hotel, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey through the picturesque countryside.
The tour’s flexible cancellation policy gives peace of mind, making it easy to plan and adjust the itinerary as needed.
Pickup and Accessibility
This tour offers convenient pickup from either the Reims train station or guests’ hotels, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s exploration.
Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all participants to fully enjoy the Champagne region’s highlights.
With pickup provided, travelers won’t need to worry about transportation logistics, freeing them to focus on the incredible sights and tastings ahead.
The wheelchair accessibility ensures that everyone can participate in the activities, from the historic Reims Cathedral to the underground Pommery cellars.
This thoughtful service demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to providing an inclusive, enjoyable experience for all guests.
Reims Cathedral Notre Dame
Visiting the 800-year-old Reims Cathedral Notre-Dame, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, kicks off the tour with a 30-minute guided exploration of this magnificent Gothic masterpiece, allowing guests to marvel at its intricate architecture and storied history.
Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, ornate sculptures, and the sheer grandeur of its interior.
Travelers will learn about the cathedral’s role as the traditional site of French royal coronations and its significance in the nation’s religious and cultural heritage.
This initial stop sets the stage for the rest of the tour, immersing visitors in the rich history and traditions of the Champagne region.
Champagne Pommery Tour and Tasting
Touring Pommery’s renowned Roman cellars, guests enjoy the storied history of this prestigious Champagne house, where they learn about the intricate process of Champagne production.
Descending underground, visitors explore the impressive labyrinth of chalk caves that have been used for Champagne aging since the 19th century.
An expert guide shares insights into Pommery’s innovative winemaking techniques and the unique terroir that gives the house’s Champagnes their signature style.
The tasting allows guests to savor the distinct flavors of Pommery’s celebrated vintages and appreciate the complexity and elegance of the house’s cuvées, providing a memorable sensory experience and a deeper understanding of the art of Champagne-making.
Hautvillers Abbey and Wine Tasting
After exploring the renowned Pommery Champagne cellars, visitors venture to the quaint village of Hautvillers, where they discover the historic Abbey and its connection to the legendary Dom Pérignon.
During a 20-minute guided tour, guests learn about the abbey’s integral role in the evolution of Champagne production.
The group then moves to a local winery for a 20-minute tasting, where they sample the unique terroir of this hallowed region.
Visitors are captivated by the serene beauty of the vineyards and the reverence for the area’s wine-making heritage. This brief respite from the day’s activities allows guests to appreciate the rich history and traditions that have shaped the Champagne industry for centuries.
Epernay Break and Lunch
The group enjoys a leisurely 1.5-hour break in Epernay, the unofficial capital of Champagne, where they’ve the opportunity to explore the charming town and indulge in a local lunch.
They wander along the famous Avenue de Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses, and admire the elegant 19th-century architecture.
The group is free to choose from a variety of local restaurants, sampling regional cuisine and pairing it with the renowned Champagne from the area.
During this break, the travelers can relax, recharge, and enjoy the rich culture and traditions of the Champagne region before continuing their tour.
Avenay-Val-d’Or Tour and Tasting
From Epernay, the group continues their journey to the charming village of Avenay-Val-d’Or, where they’ll embark on a 1.5-hour guided tour and wine tasting at a boutique champagne producer.
The tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the intricate process of crafting exceptional champagne. Guests will:
- Explore the winery’s state-of-the-art facilities and see firsthand how the champagne is produced, from grape to bottle.
- Indulge in a tasting of the producer’s finest vintages, gaining insights into the nuances of each cuvée.
- Interact with the passionate winemakers and learn about the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
This intimate experience at the boutique winery provides a fitting conclusion to the Pommery Small Group Tour, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the art of champagne making.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This Pommery Small Group Tour includes a number of amenities to enhance the experience, such as pickup and transportation, bottled water, and admission to the Pommery visit and tasting, as well as a visit and tasting at a boutique champagne producer.
However, the tour excludes train tickets from/to Paris, lunch, gratuities, and prohibits the presence of pets, smoking, and outside food in the vehicle.
These exclusions ensure the focus remains on the guided tours, tastings, and immersive experiences throughout the day.
Guests are encouraged to come prepared with their own transportation to and from the starting point, as well as any desired food or refreshments beyond what’s provided.
The tour’s inclusions aim to create a seamless, memorable champagne adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for the tour. Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and visiting wineries is recommended. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather conditions and be prepared for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?
The tour operator’s policy generally does not allow bringing your own snacks on the tour. However, to avoid any issues, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand about their specific rules regarding food and drinks.
Is There an Age Limit for Participants?
There is no age limit for participants on this tour. The tour is wheelchair accessible, indicating it is suitable for all ages. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, as long as they do not disrupt the group or interfere with the guide’s commentary. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or guidelines regarding photography.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour operator typically offers a group discount for bookings of 4 or more participants. The exact discount amount may vary, but it’s common to see savings of 5-10% for larger group sizes on this type of guided tour.
Recap
The full-day Pommery small group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Reims and the Champagne region.
Guests can discover the majestic Reims Cathedral, explore the renowned Pommery cellars, and visit the historic Hautvillers Abbey associated with Dom Pérignon.
With a flexible cancellation policy and a focus on personalized experiences, this tour provides an immersive and memorable journey through the heart of the Champagne countryside.
