Champagne Road Trip

Embark on a Champagne Road Trip to explore the rich culture, history, and flavors of France! Starting in Reims and ending in Chalons en Champagne, this 118 km route takes you through some of the most beautiful towns in the region. Verzenay, Epernay, and Vertus are all must-see stops along your journey! Explore the cobblestone streets, enjoy the delicious local fare, and visit the famous champagne vineyards. The best time to take the Champagne Road Trip is during the warmer months of the year when the vineyards are in full bloom. The roads are in excellent condition and the drive is suitable for all levels of driving experience. Plus, you can enjoy this trip on a moderate budget. Make sure to take your time and savor the experience - two days is the recommended time to complete this road trip.

Reims is a city located in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France, and is the perfect starting point for a journey along the Champagne Road Trip. As the capital of the Champagne region, Reims is steeped in history and culture, making it a must-see for any traveler. To begin your journey, take some time to explore the city itself. Reims is home to a number of stunning cathedrals, including the Notre-Dame de Reims and the Saint-Remi Basilica. The Palais du Tau is also a must-see for its impressive architecture and its beautiful gardens. After taking in the sights, be sure to sample some of the local champagne, which is renowned around the world. For those flying into Reims, the closest international airport is Reims-Champagne Airport (RHE), located just outside the city. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to continue your journey along the Champagne Road Trip. Reims is an ideal starting point for a journey through France's Champagne region. With its impressive architecture, delicious cuisine, and world-famous champagne, it's a must-see destination for any traveler.

Welcome, road-trippers! Let's embark on a journey from Reims, France to Verzenay. This scenic 36km drive will take you less than an hour and is part of a larger tour. Get ready for a memorable experience as you explore the most interesting places along the way. In Reims, you can visit the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, the Reims Opera House, and the Palace of Tau. The cathedral is a remarkable example of French Gothic architecture and is home to the coronation of French kings. The Opera House is a 19th-century building with a beautiful interior, while the Palace of Tau is a museum with a collection of artifacts and artworks. On the way to Verzenay, you can stop by the Abbey of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne. The abbey is a beautiful building with a rich history and a great view of the rolling hills of Champagne. You can also visit the Château de Boursault, a beautiful castle with a stunning view of the vineyards. Finally, you will arrive in Verzenay, a small village surrounded by vineyards. Here, you can visit the Verzenay Tower, a 12th-century tower with a great view of the village and the vineyards. You can also take a stroll around the vineyards and visit the local wineries. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Welcome to an exciting road trip stage through the beautiful countryside of Verzenay, France! This 27 km journey will take you less than 1 hour to complete and will take you through the towns of Verzy and Epernay. The first stop on your trip is Verzy, a quaint town with a rich history. Here you can explore its historical sites, such as the Château de Verzy, a 16th century castle that was once owned by the Duke of Verzy. You can also visit the Church of Saint-Vincent de Verzy, a beautiful Romanesque church built in the 12th century. Next, you’ll arrive in Epernay, home of the world-renowned Champagne region. Here you can visit the Avenue de Champagne, a street lined with some of the most famous Champagne houses in the world. You can also explore the beautiful gardens at the Château de Boursault, a 19th century estate. As you make your way through this stage of the road trip, be sure to take in the breathtaking countryside views and keep an eye out for any interesting historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Start your road trip in Epernay, France! This is the first stop of a larger tour and it is only 23 km and less than an hour away from Cramant. Cramant is a beautiful village located in the heart of the Champagne region. Here you can visit the many vineyards and learn about the traditional winemaking process. Don't forget to taste some of the delicious champagnes while you are here. The next stop is Vertus, a charming village with a picturesque landscape. Here you can explore the many churches and monuments and admire the breathtaking views. There are also many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a delicious meal. Finally, you can visit the local market and buy some souvenirs to remember your trip. All in all, this is a great stage for road tripping! If you want to find out more about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

Welcome to the Vertus-Chalons en Champagne stage of your road trip! This 32km stretch of road will take you less than an hour to drive, and it's packed full of interesting sights and attractions. In Vertus, you won't want to miss the majestic Notre-Dame-de-Vertus church, built in the 12th century and still standing proud today. Stop by the local vineyards and sample some of the best wines in the region. Once you leave Vertus, you'll find yourself in the rolling hills of the countryside, with picturesque views all around. Make sure to take a break in the small village of Trigny and explore its historic church, dating back to the 15th century. Finally, you'll arrive in Chalons en Champagne, where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral of St. Etienne and the nearby Museum of Fine Arts. There's also a lively cultural scene, with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Chalons en Champagne is a vibrant city in the heart of France, and the final destination of the Champagne Road Trip. This vibrant city is steeped in history and culture, and has plenty of sites to explore. From its numerous churches and cathedrals to its charming parks and gardens, there is something for everyone. One of the most popular attractions in Chalons en Champagne is the Carre d'Or, a beautiful square in the center of the city. Here, visitors have the opportunity to explore its many monuments and churches, including the 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-Etienne. This awe-inspiring structure is a great place to explore and learn more about the city's history. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy, including the famous Café de la Place. Chalons en Champagne is also home to the Parc des Expositions, a large exhibition center where visitors can attend events and conferences. Located near the city center, the Parc des Expositions is a great place to explore the region's culture. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Chalons en Champagne has plenty of parks and gardens, including the Jardin des Plantes and the Parc de la Garenne. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). From here, visitors can easily reach Chalons en Champagne by car, as the city is well connected to the rest of the region. Chalons en Champagne is the perfect ending point for the Champagne Road Trip. With its numerous attractions and activities, visitors are sure to have a memorable visit to this charming city.

Before you set off

Embark on the Champagne Road Trip for an unforgettable journey through France's Champagne region, stretching from the historic city of Reims to the charming town of Chalons en Champagne. This 118 km route winds through breathtaking landscapes peppered with medieval towns, prestigious vineyards, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. As you travel, you'll have the opportunity to savor the world-renowned sparkling wine that has become synonymous with celebration and luxury.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Reims: This city is a treasure trove of French history with its UNESCO-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral, where French kings were once crowned. Don't miss the Palais du Tau and the Saint-Remi Basilica, as well as the prestigious champagne houses like Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot for tastings and tours.
• Verzenay: Here, you'll find the curious Verzenay Lighthouse, which houses a museum dedicated to the region's viticulture, set amidst stretching vineyards that paint the landscape with varying shades of green.
• Epernay: Often referred to as the capital of Champagne, Epernay's Avenue de Champagne is lined with opulent mansions housing famous champagne producers like Moët & Chandon and Mercier, offering a glimpse into the luxurious world of champagne production.
• Vertus: Nestled in the Cote des Blancs, Vertus is a serene village where you can experience the charm of rural France and explore smaller, family-owned vineyards that contribute to the region's diversity in champagne production.
• Chalons en Champagne: Conclude your Road Trip in this peaceful town, where you can stroll through the historic center dotted with half-timbered houses and witness the blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

Best Time to Go:

The Champagne Road Trip is particularly magical between April and October when the vineyards are at their most vibrant and the temperate climate invites outdoor activities like vineyard tours, picnics, and leisurely strolls in the countryside.

Potential Risks:

The route is well-traveled and the Roads are in excellent condition, yet it's crucial to drink in moderation if you're behind the wheel. Ensure you're aware of France's strict drink-driving laws and consider arranging tours with transportation or hiring a designated driver to enhance safety.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Budgets can vary, but a moderate budget is sufficient for a comfortable experience, with options for luxury or more economical accommodations and dining.
• To truly embrace the laid-back rhythm of the region and delve into its offerings, plan a Trip of at least two days.
• The Champagne region is a mosaic of grand marque houses and boutique producers, where you can learn about the intricate process of champagne making and taste a variety of styles.

A good choice for:

The Champagne Road Trip is an enchanting fusion of scenic beauty, epicurean delights, and cultural richness. It invites travelers to unwind and indulge the senses as they traverse a landscape steeped in history and tradition. Taking the time to meander through the vineyards and villages, engage with local vintners, and relish the exquisite champagnes, this journey promises memories that will sparkle long after the last glass is sipped.