Champagne

Champagne is a dazzling region in France, known for its beauty and elegance. As the birthplace of the world-famous wine that shares its name, it offers visitors the chance to explore the vineyards, cellars, and prestigious houses that produce this iconic beverage. However, Champagne is much more than just wine. It’s a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Stroll through charming towns and villages, admire ancient castles and majestic cathedrals, and take in the breathtaking landscapes. Reims, the region’s capital, is a treasure trove of art and history, where French kings were crowned for centuries. Whatever your interests, Champagne promises something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do in Champagne

The vineyards, houses, and cellars classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

In 2015, 14 cellars, vineyards, and sites were listed as UNESCO World Heritage under the “cultural landscape” category, showcasing the universal heritage of the Champagne region. Discover the rolling hills of Hautvillers, Haÿ, Mareuil, Saint-Nicaise, or explore the prestigious cellars of Pommery, Veuve-Clicquot, Ruinart, Taittinger, and the Fort Chabrol Institute, known for its wine and oenological research.

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Reims:

This Gothic masterpiece served as the site for the coronation of numerous French kings. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its luminous interior, Chagall’s modern stained glass windows, and the smiling angel among the 2,000 statues adorning the façade will captivate you.

Roc-la-Tour:

These two rock formations dominate the Semois Valley at 400 meters above sea level, forming what is known as the Devil’s Castle. Legend has it that these are the ruins of a castle destroyed by an enraged Satan. Keep calm!

The Champagne Houses:

Around a hundred champagne houses vinify their own selection of grapes and vintages using a strict traditional process. About 20 of them offer cellar tours, including Ayala in Aÿ, Mercier in Épernay, Duchêne Canard in the Château de Ludes, Taittinger in the crypts of the former Saint-Nicaise Abbey, and Ruinart in the chalk cellars of Reims. A sparkling experience awaits!

World War I sites:

Due to its location, the Champagne-Ardenne region was the stage for many battles during the First World War. Thirty sites, cemeteries, and monuments commemorate these pivotal moments in history.

Sedan Castle:

Europe's largest castle, with seven floors, 35,000 m² of space, and 7-meter-thick walls. Both a fortress and a princely residence, its imposing silhouette towers over the city.

Reims:

No chance of boredom in Reims! Some suggestions include the Gallo-Roman ruins of the Mars Gate, the Romanesque-Gothic Saint-Remi Basilica, the Tau Palace, the Byzantine Saint-Clotilde Basilica, the Carnegie Art Deco Library, and the modern chapel designed by Japanese painter Foujita, as well as the Boulingrin Market.

Mont Malgré-Tout:

Looking for a pleasant hike? Climb to the top of Mont Malgré-Tout (450 meters) in the Meuse Valley. The writer George Sand even dedicated a novel to this site.

The historic heart of Troyes:

The city boasts an astonishing heritage of brightly colored, half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, once home to wealthy merchants. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the noble family mansions.

Combining champagne and contemporary art at Maison Pommery:

Where tradition meets the avant-garde, Domaine Pommery displays contemporary art in its cellars. Maisons Ruinart and Louis Roederer also provide platforms for renowned artists and emerging talents.

Meeting the winemakers:

Many winemakers open their doors to share their passion, guiding you through the vineyard, fermentation process, and ultimately, the glass of champagne. After these insightful encounters, you’ll be a champagne expert!

Paying homage to Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers:

This is where the legend of champagne was born, thanks to the Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon, who is said to have perfected the art of sparkling wine in the late 17th century. He rests at the abbey in Hautvillers, and his name is immortalized in the vintage produced by Moët & Chandon.

Shopping in Troyes, home of factory outlets

Over a hundred stores await you in three major outlet centers, offering discounts on sporting goods, tableware, leather goods, and fashion. A shopper's paradise!

Walking down Avenue de Champagne in Épernay

This chic avenue, over a kilometer long, is lined with champagne houses and mansions. Beneath your feet, over 100 kilometers of cellars store more than 200 million bottles—a dream for bubble enthusiasts!

Touring the Episcopal Palace of Troyes

The 16th-century palace houses the city's Museum of Modern Art, a stunning backdrop for 3,500 artworks by Bonnard, Braque, Rodin, Van Dongen, and more.