The Champagne region is a dream come true for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a picturesque getaway. Here are the places and locations we recommend visiting during your trip to Champagne.
Mareuil-sur-Aÿ is a charming village offering an authentic Champagne experience. Among its attractions are: the Statue of the Virgin of Gruguet, erected in 1946. The statue commemorates a wish made to the Virgin Mary during World War II and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards.
The village's port is perfect for a stroll along the Marne canal, with views of the vineyards and its leisure boats.
Trails and paths winding through the Champagne countryside make for a charming outing.
Hautvillers, often considered the birthplace of Champagne, owes its fame to Dom Pérignon, the monk who is credited with perfecting the champagne-making method. This picturesque village charms visitors with its timeless appeal and rich winemaking heritage.
As you stroll through its streets, you'll discover the Abbaye Saint-Pierre, a historic site where Dom Pérignon worked and lived. Many houses are adorned with wrought-iron signs, each representing the craft or trade of former inhabitants.
From the heights of Hautvillers, you can take in breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding vineyards.
The Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, often described as one of the most prestigious avenues in the world, owes its reputation to the millions of bottles of Champagne resting in its cellars.
This iconic location embodies the history and craftsmanship of the Champagne region. As you stroll along the avenue, you can visit renowned Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon and Boizel, which offer guided tours and tastings.
Visitors are captivated by opulent architecture of the grand residences, erected by the great Champagne families.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an emblematic landmark of the region. The cathedral served as the historic venue for the coronations of French kings from Clovis to Louis XVI.
Notre-Dame de Reims reflects the history and grandeur of the city. You’ll be amazed by its stained glass windows, which include installations by artists such as Marc Chagall and Imi Knoebel.
The cathedral is also known for its Smiling Angel sculpture, an iconic symbol of Reims after the First World War. Discover the holy secrets of the Cité des Sacres on your visit to Champagne.
The emblematic Côte des Blancs is renowned for its chardonnay vineyards, known for producing Champagnes of incomparable finesse. This unique terroir embodies the excellence of champagne craftsmanship.
While exploring this sub-region of Champagne, visit the renowned Grand Cru villages of Avize, Cramant, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger.
Take a stroll in this picturesque landscape, featuring gentle slopes and chalky soils.
The Montagne de Reims, another key sub-region, is famous for its pinot noir grapes, which add depth and structure to Champagne. This area blends rich winemaking heritage with exceptional natural landscapes, showcased by Domaine Méa.
As you explore the hillside, you will witness the unique harmony between the forest and the vineyards. Visit typical villages such as Verzy, Verzenay, and Bouzy, renowned for their Grand Cru Champagnes.
The Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park is a fantastic spot for hiking and cycling thanks to its winding trails.
Known for its pinot meunier vines, the Vallée de la Marne combines winemaking tradition and historical heritage. This unique terroir, characterized by its proximity to the river Marne, combines authenticity and charm.
The Statue of Pope Urbain II in Châtillon-sur-Marne overlooks the valley, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards. Not far away, the Château de Boursault, built in the 19th century by Veuve Clicquot, invites visitors to discover its history and its deep connection to Champagne production.
The Faux de Verzy, located in the heart of the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, are a fascinating natural curiosity found in only a few locations in the world. These contorted dwarf trees create a unique spectacle with their winding branches. The magical atmosphere attracts walkers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts.
Follow the guided trails through this forest and uncover the history and legends surrounding these unique trees. The Faux de Verzy are also a symbol of the region’s ecological richness, providing a peaceful setting for a relaxing stroll in the heart of Champagne.
