The bucolic landscapes of rolling, vine-clad hillsides, rich cultural heritage and proud wine-growing and gastronomic tradition have long combined to make the Champagne region a magnet for visitors from these shores. Home of course to the most prestigious of all wines, synonymous with celebration, but to so much more besides, this charming land of contrasts is full of hidden surprises and offers the perfect combination of enjoyment, culture and the famed French “douceur de vivre ». What’s more, its location – closest wine-growing region to the UK – makes it extremely accessible by rail, and its mild climate conducive to visit at any time of the year.
First stop is EPERNAY, epicentre of Champagne production, surrounded on all sides by the vine-covered slopes of the Côte des Blancs, where most of the celebrated grands crus are produced. The imposing mansions lining the Avenue de Champagne house the big names - Moët et Chandon, Mercier, Pol Roger and Castellane inter alia – their cellars extending over 100 km and housing millions of bottles. A visit - and compulsory tasting! – here and with one of the many small independent producers will reveal the unique combination of geological and climatic conditions, tradition, painstaking labour and rigorous controls which underpin the complex process of transforming the pinot noir, pinot meunier or chardonnay grape (the only 3 authorised) into Champagne. Shipment and takeaway sales are easily arranged
But there is so much more to Champagne than the eponymous wine. A short journey through the Marne Valley brings you to CHALONS-EN-CHAMPAGNE, a surprising, pretty town whose rich architectural heritage is officially recognised by UNESCO. Criss-crossed by the Marne and its little tributaries it is sometimes called Little Venice, and is enchanting when viewed from the water. Then south to TROYES, historical capital of Champagne and jewel in its crown, endlessly fascinating and entertaining by day and night. Its beautifully restored medieval centre of narrow, winding cobbled streets and hidden courtyards, lined with multi-coloured, half-timbered houses, Gothic churches and Renaissance mansions, just invites discovery on foot and is the equal of any in France. It is also a vibrant, young-at-heart city, heaving with life in its many great bistros, restaurants and shops, including great value factory shopping, the first in France
Day One: arrival at Epernay for overnight on b & b
Day Two: discover Epernay and learn the secrets of champagne production, with included visits/tasting to Castellane and « C Comme » wine-bar, for local indepedent producers. Possible optional visit to vineyards and local wine-grower. Overnight Epernay on b&b
Day Three: further free time in Epernay, early p.m. to Chalons-en-Champagne, discover the historical centre with the included auto-guide, and make your choice from the many fine local restaurants. Overnight on b&b.
Day Four : a.m. free in Chalons, maybe take a boat trip (included mid-June to Aug), p.m. to Troyes for overnight on b & b
Day Five: day at leisure to explore the endlessly fascinating and lively medieval heart of Troyes, and sample the local cuisine. Overnight on b & b
Day Six: further time to enjoy Troyes’ myriad attractions, including visit/tasting of champagne and « prunelle de Troyes » in Cellier St-Pierre, ideal for purchases, inc Burgundy wines. Overnight Troyes on b & b
Day Seven: return to UK by local train and Eurostar