Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims serves as the perfect starting point for an enchanting day trip that promises to delight the senses. Join this guided excursion as you learn about the rich history and legendary flavors that have made this renowned wine-producing area a global icon. From the quaint village of Hautvillers to the prestigious Avenue de Champagne, you’ll uncover the secrets behind the creation of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine. With tastings at two family-owned estates and a hearty regional lunch, this intimate small-group experience offers a remarkable opportunity to…
Key Points
- Explore the picturesque villages of Reims and Épernay, the heart of the Champagne region, on an 8-hour day trip from Reims.
- Discover the rich history and traditions of Champagne-making, including a visit to the tomb of Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers.
- Savor up to six glasses of world-renowned Champagne during tastings at prestigious local Champagne houses along the Avenue de Champagne.
- Indulge in a regional lunch at a local eatery, complementing the Champagne experience.
- The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility due to historic settings and uneven terrain, but the operator can accommodate other needs.
Tour Overview
This immersive 8-hour Champagne day trip whisks travelers to the picturesque villages of Reims and Épernay, where they’ll uncover the rich history and time-honored traditions of this renowned wine region.
With a small group of just 8 participants, the experience offers an intimate and personalized exploration.
Highlights include visiting the charming village of Hautvillers, home to the legendary Dom Pérignon, and discovering the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Épernay.
Along the way, guests will savor six glasses of Champagne at two authentic family estates, complemented by a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.
Led by a knowledgeable live guide, this exceptional tour provides an unforgettable journey through the heart of France’s iconic Champagne country.
Getting to Reims
Travelers can conveniently reach Reims, the starting point of this Champagne day trip, by taking a direct high-speed train from Paris. The journey from the French capital to Reims takes approximately 45 minutes, allowing visitors to quickly enjoy the renowned Champagne region.
Once in Reims, the tour’s meeting point at the train station ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventures. With its historic cathedral, charming streets, and proximity to the renowned vineyards, Reims is the perfect gateway to exploring the heart of Champagne.
The efficient transportation and convenient location make this day trip accessible and hassle-free, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of the legendary sparkling wine.
Exploring Hautvillers
After exploring the vibrant city of Reims, the tour takes guests to the picturesque village of Hautvillers, recognized as the birthplace of Champagne.
This charming commune nestled in the heart of the Marne Valley is where the legendary monk Dom Pérignon perfected the art of crafting the world’s most prestigious sparkling wine.
Visitors will:
- Stroll through the quaint streets and marvel at the historic architecture, including the impressive Abbey of Saint-Pierre.
- Visit the tomb of Dom Pérignon and learn about his groundbreaking contributions to the Champagne-making process.
- Admire the stunning vineyards that cascade down the hillsides, providing the perfect backdrop for this renowned wine region.
- Savor the rich flavors of Champagne at a local family-owned estate, gaining insider knowledge from passionate producers.
Avenue De Champagne
Continuing the journey, visitors descend upon the renowned Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, a veritable epicenter of the region’s most prestigious Champagne houses.
Lined with grand, neo-Renaissance châteaux, the avenue is a testament to the wealth and prestige of the Champagne trade. Visitors stroll along the cobblestone streets, marveling at the iconic facades and ornate architectural details.
Many of the Champagne houses offer tastings and tours, allowing guests to explore the intricate process of crafting the effervescent beverage. Whether sipping a glass of vintage Champagne or simply soaking in the historic ambiance, the Avenue de Champagne offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of this renowned wine region.
Champagne Tastings
The tour culminates with the highlight of the day: sampling the region’s world-renowned Champagne at two authentic family estates. Guests eagerly anticipate the opportunity to savor up to six delectable glasses of the bubbly nectar, savoring its distinctive flavors and complexities.
These Champagne tastings offer a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to:
- Discover the unique terroir and production methods that give Champagne its celebrated character
- Appreciate the nuances between different vintages, blends, and styles of this iconic sparkling wine
- Learn directly from passionate, knowledgeable producers about the artistry and tradition behind their craft
- Develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of Champagne-making
Lunch in a Local Eatery
Following the Champagne tastings at the two family estates, guests are treated to a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where they can savor the flavors of the Champagne region. The meal features a selection of regional specialties, perfectly paired with the exquisite Champagnes sampled earlier. Theres some good a mouth-watering main course, followed by a decadent dessert, all while soaking up the charming ambiance of the eatery. The lunch provides a wonderful opportunity to further take in the rich culinary traditions of Champagne and create lasting memories of this exceptional day trip.
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Main | Hearty regional dish featuring local ingredients |
| Dessert | Indulgent sweet treat complementing the Champagne |
| Beverage | Glass of Champagne to accompany the meal |
| Ambiance | Charming local restaurant with authentic atmosphere |
Accessibility and Suitability
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the itinerary involves navigating through historic villages and visiting small family vineyards that may have limited accessibility. However, the tour operator is happy to accommodate guests with other mobility needs, so they encourage anyone interested to inquire about the specific accessibility arrangements.
The walking required during the tour may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
The historic settings and uneven terrain in Hautvillers and Épernay can present obstacles.
The small family estates visited may have narrow doorways and stairs.
Alternate arrangements can be made for guests who require additional assistance or have specific accessibility requirements.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellations come with a flexible policy, allowing guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start. This gives travelers the peace of mind to book their spot without worrying about unexpected changes in their plans. The generous cancellation terms are just one of the many thoughtful touches that make this Champagne day trip an exceptional experience.
| Cancellation Policy | |
|---|---|
| Time Frame | Refund Amount |
| Up to 24 hours before start | 100% |
| Within 24 hours of start | No refund |
| No-shows | No refund |
| Changes to booking | Allowed with at least 24 hours notice |
The tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their flexible cancellation policy, ensuring guests can book with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Buy Champagne to Take Home?
Absolutely! Guests can purchase bottles of champagne to take home after the tastings at the family estates. The tour provides an excellent opportunity to stock up on high-quality champagne from the renowned Champagne region.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged throughout the tour, allowing guests to capture the picturesque Champagne region, the charming villages, and the wine-making process at the family estates. Snap away and create lasting memories of this delightful experience.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?
Absolutely! The tour provider is happy to accommodate dietary requirements like vegetarian or gluten-free meals. Just let them know when booking, and they’ll ensure a delightful lunch is provided that suits your needs. This thoughtful service enhances the overall experience.
Can I Visit the Tour Locations on My Own?
Sure, visitors can explore the Champagne region on their own. However, the guided tour offers a more immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover the iconic vineyards, taste authentic champagnes, and enjoy a delightful local lunch – all without the hassle of planning.
Are Children Allowed on the Tour?
The tour is designed for adults and doesn’t accommodate children. While the Champagne region is beautiful, the tastings and focus of the experience may not be suitable for younger participants. Guests must be 18+ to join this small-group adventure.
Recap
This champagne day trip from Reims offers a delightful immersion into the heart of the prestigious Champagne region.
From the charming village of Hautvillers to the iconic Avenue de Champagne, travelers will savor the rich history, traditions, and, of course, the world-renowned champagne.
With personal tastings, a hearty regional lunch, and an intimate small-group setting, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to fully experience the essence of Champagne.
