Discover the essence of Champagne on this immersive 4.5-hour tour from Reims. Explore two family-run wineries, savor the region’s finest bubbly, and visit the historical village of Hautvillers, where the legendary Dom Pérignon is laid to rest. This small-group experience offers an authentic and exclusive journey, with skip-the-line access and comfortable transportation by air-conditioned minivan. Uncover the stories and passion behind each sip as you explore the rich traditions that have made Champagne a global icon. But the real question is, what will your palate discover?
Key Points
- 4.5-hour tour from Reims’ central train station with a small group (up to 8 people) and transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.
- Visits two family-run Champagne wineries for 1.5-hour tastings, providing an immersive experience in local winemaking traditions and expertise.
- Explores the historical village of Hautvillers, including the church where Dom Pérignon is buried and panoramic viewpoints of UNESCO-recognized vineyards.
- Offers an authentic and intimate Champagne experience, with the opportunity to savor the region’s finest Champagne.
- Includes skip-the-line access to the wineries, ensuring a seamless and efficient tour.
Tour Duration and Details
The Champagne and Family-Run Wineries Tour lasts 4.5 hours, allowing participants to skip the ticket line and explore the region with a live tour guide in a small group limited to 8 people.
Starting from Reims’ central train station, the tour takes visitors to two family-run wineries for 1.5-hour tastings, immersing them in the local winemaking traditions.
Afterward, guests will discover the historical village of Hautvillers, including the church where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk credited with developing the Champagne production method, is buried.
With transportation provided by an air-conditioned minivan and six tastings included, this tour offers an authentic and intimate Champagne experience.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins at Reims’ central train station, where participants embark on a 4.5-hour journey to discover the heart of the Champagne region.
From there, they’ll visit two family-run wineries for 1.5-hour tasting sessions, seeing the local winemaking traditions.
Afterward, the group will explore the historical village of Hautvillers, including the church where the legendary Dom Pérignon, credited with developing the Champagne production method, is buried.
This intimate tour offers a unique opportunity to savor the region’s finest bubbly while learning about its rich history and traditions from knowledgeable local guides. The itinerary is designed to provide a well-rounded Champagne experience in just half a day.
Winery Tasting Experiences
Visiting the two family-run wineries allows participants to savor the region’s finest Champagne through immersive tasting experiences, where they’ll explore the local winemaking traditions and uncover the nuances of the renowned bubbly.
At each estate, guests will enjoy an intimate look at the production process, from the carefully tended vineyards to the meticulous cellars. They’ll sample a selection of the family’s signature Champagnes, learning to appreciate the subtle flavors and aromas that distinguish the terroir.
With guidance from the passionate local vintners, travelers will develop a newfound appreciation for the art of Champagne-making and the generations of expertise behind each bottle.
Exploring Hautvillers Village
After exploring the family-run wineries, participants often stroll through the charming village of Hautvillers, where they discover the birthplace of Champagne. This quaint, historic town boasts stunning views of the surrounding UNESCO-recognized vineyards, offering a glimpse into the origins of the renowned sparkling wine.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dom Pérignon’s Church | Visitors can see the final resting place of the legendary monk who is credited with pioneering the Champagne production method. |
| Panoramic Viewpoints | Scenic overlooks provide breathtaking vistas of the lush, rolling vineyards that carpet the surrounding hillsides. |
| Historical Architecture | The village’s picturesque streets and structures reflect its centuries-old winemaking heritage. |
| Quaint Ambiance | Wandering the charming alleyways, guests soak up the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of this Champagne region gem. |
Transportation and Logistics
For this tour, you will be transported by an air-conditioned minivan, conveniently starting and ending at the Reims train station, the Reims – Gare Centre. This ensures a comfortable and efficient journey as the group explores the renowned Champagne region.
The small group size, limited to 8 participants, allows for a personalized experience. With no hotel pickup or drop-off included, the train is the recommended mode of transportation to and from the tour’s starting point.
This logistics setup allows the focus to remain on the highlight experiences – discovering local wines through tastings at two family-run wineries and immersing in the historic village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a local English-speaking guide, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and entrance fees for visits and tastings at two family-run wineries, providing participants with a comprehensive Champagne experience.
However, it excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, other drinks, lunch, and pickup/drop-off in Paris, as the train is the recommended mode of transportation to and from the tour’s starting point in Reims.
The tour’s inclusions offer:
- An insightful, guided exploration of the Champagne region
- Firsthand experiences at two family-run wineries
- Six tastings to savor the local, artisanal Champagnes
- Hassle-free transportation between the winery visits and historic Hautvillers
Suitability and Restrictions
This tour isn’t suitable for all travelers. It’s not recommended for children under 12 years old or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities and transportation involved.
The wineries and historical village of Hautvillers feature stairs and uneven terrain that can be challenging for some. The small group size and intimate tour experiences also may not appeal to those looking for a more independent or large-group atmosphere.
However, for those who can participate, the tour offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the Champagne region’s rich history and family-run winemaking traditions. The tastings, scenic vistas, and guided exploration create an unforgettable experience for mature, able-bodied travelers.
Recommended Train Travel
While the tour doesn’t offer pickup and drop-off in Paris, the train is a recommended way to travel to and from the starting point in Reims. Taking the train allows visitors to easily access the tour’s meeting location at Reims – Gare Centre, the central train station.
With frequent high-speed rail connections between Paris and Reims, the journey is straightforward and efficient, typically taking around 45 minutes each way.
Some key benefits of taking the train include:
- Stress-free travel without the hassle of driving and parking
- Opportunity to enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way
- Ability to relax and unwind before and after the tour
- Convenient transportation that aligns with the tour’s schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I Have a Food Allergy or Dietary Restriction?
If a guest has a food allergy or dietary restriction, they should notify the tour operator in advance. The tour can be customized to accommodate their needs, ensuring they have an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Can I Take Pictures During the Wine Tastings?
Yes, guests are generally allowed to take photos during the wine tastings. However, it’s courteous to check with the winery staff first, as some may have restrictions in place to avoid disrupting the tasting experience.
Is the Tour Guide Available for Additional Questions After the Tour?
The tour guide is available for additional questions after the tour. Guests can ask the guide for further insights and recommendations about the Champagne region, wineries, and wine tasting experiences.
Do We Have Time to Buy Souvenirs in Hautvillers?
There is limited time (45 minutes) to explore Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne. Visitors may have time to quickly browse the village’s shops for souvenirs, but the primary focus is on visiting the historic church and sights.
Can I Book This Tour for a Group Larger Than 8 People?
The tour operator may accommodate larger groups, but the experience is designed for small groups of 8 or fewer. Larger groups can be accommodated upon request, subject to availability and additional fees. Guests should check with the operator for details.
Recap
This Champagne and Family-Run Wineries Tour from Reims offers an immersive, intimate, and exclusive experience.
Participants can savor the finest Champagne, explore historic wineries, and discover the picturesque village of Hautvillers, all while enjoying convenient transportation and a small group setting.
It’s the perfect way to explore the rich winemaking heritage of the Champagne region.
