Reims/Epernay: Cave Visit in Reims, Discovery of Epernay

The Champagne region of France is renowned for its world-class bubbly, and a tour through Reims and Epernay offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the storied history and intricate production process of this iconic beverage. Visitors can explore the historic cellars of a renowned champagne house, discover the charming town of Epernay, and savor the rich flavors of the region’s finest vintages. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a champagne enthusiast, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• Explore the renowned champagne house in Reims with a guided tour and tasting of notable products like Veuve Clicquot and Pommery.
• Discover the Gothic architectural marvel of Reims Cathedral through a self-guided tour, admiring the grand facade and stunning rose windows.
• Enjoy a leisurely 1.5-hour French lunch at a local restaurant in Epernay, featuring regional specialties and a charming ambiance.
• Visit Hautvillers, the ‘birthplace of Champagne,’ for a photo stop and tasting of complex, traditional Champagne flavors.
• Stroll along the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, admiring the grand facades of prestigious champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 9-hour small group tour allows visitors to explore the Champagne region by visiting the cities of Reims and Epernay.

The tour is limited to 7 participants and is offered in both French and English.

Departing from the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station at 9 AM, the tour promises a comprehensive experience, including a visit to a renowned champagne house in Reims, a self-guided tour of Reims Cathedral, and a French restaurant lunch in Epernay.

Plus, there will be a photo stop and tasting in Hautvillers, as well as a self-guided tour of the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay.

The tour concludes at 6 PM back at the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to a champagne house in Reims, where guests enjoy a guided tour and tasting lasting approximately 105 minutes.

After, visitors embark on a self-guided tour of the iconic Reims Cathedral, spending around 30 minutes exploring its grandeur.

The group then travels to Epernay, where they’ll enjoy a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch at a French restaurant.

Next, they’ll visit Hautvillers, the birthplace of champagne, for a photo stop and champagne tasting.

The final stop is a self-guided stroll along the famous Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, allowing guests to soak in the elegance of this renowned champagne region.

Champagne House Visit

After exploring the grandeur of Reims Cathedral, the tour group heads to a renowned champagne house in the city, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting experience. The group will have the opportunity to step into the historic cellars, learn about the intricate champagne-making process, and sample some of the finest bubbles produced in the region.

Champagne House	Founded	Notable Products
Veuve Clicquot	1772	Brut Yellow Label, Rosé
Pommery	1856	Brut Apanage, Cuvée Louise

The tour provides an immersive insight into the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Champagne, leaving the visitors with a deeper appreciation for this iconic French sparkling wine.

Reims Cathedral Tour

Following the champagne house visit, the tour group ventures to the majestic Reims Cathedral, where they embark on a self-guided exploration of this remarkable Gothic architectural marvel. The cathedral’s towering spires, intricate buttresses, and ornate stained glass windows captivate the visitors as they wander through the historic nave and aisles.

Key highlights of the self-guided tour include:

• Admiring the cathedral’s grand facade, adorned with over 2,300 statues

• Discovering the stunning rose windows, which flood the interior with vibrant colors

• Marveling at the impressive collection of medieval sculptures and reliefs

• Exploring the crypt, where ancient archaeological remains are on display

The 30-minute tour offers a glimpse into the cathedral’s rich history and architectural splendor, leaving the group eager to continue their Champagne discovery.

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Lunch in Epernay

Next, the tour group travels to Epernay, where they enjoy a delectable three-course French lunch at a local restaurant.

The meal, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours, provides a chance for the participants to savor the flavors of the Champagne region and recharge before continuing their exploration.

The restaurant offers a menu showcasing regional specialties, from hearty stews to light salads.

As they dine, your take in the charming ambiance of the quaint town.

The leisurely lunch allows the group to share their impressions of the morning’s activities and bond over their shared love of champagne.

Suitably refreshed, they’re ready to continue their adventure through the vineyards and historic sites of Epernay.

Hautvillers Champagne Tasting

Continuing the tour, the group visits the picturesque village of Hautvillers, where they make a photo stop and enjoy a champagne tasting. This quaint town is widely regarded as the ‘birthplace of Champagne,’ as it was here that Dom Pérignon, the famous Benedictine monk, pioneered the production of sparkling wine.

During the tasting, participants have the opportunity to sample the region’s renowned bubbly:

• Taste the complex flavors of a vintage Champagne

• Compare the styles of blanc de blancs and blanc de noirs

• Discover the unique terroir that gives Hautvillers wines their distinct character

• Learn about the traditional methods used in Champagne production

This delightful stop allows the group to enjoy the rich history and celebrate the heritage of this iconic French wine region.

Avenue De Champagne

After the champagne tasting in Hautvillers, the tour moves on to explore the renowned Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. This iconic street is home to the world’s most prestigious champagne houses, where visitors can wander and admire the grand façades of these iconic brands.

Champagne House	Founded
Moët & Chandon	1743
Perrier-Jouët	1811
Mercier	1858
Pol Roger	1849
De Castellane	1895

The self-guided tour along Avenue de Champagne offers guests a glimpse into the history and grandeur of the champagne industry, set against the backdrop of these architectural masterpieces.

Tour Inclusions and Details

The tour package includes transport in a climate-controlled Volkswagen minivan, as well as entry fees for one champagne house visit and tastings in Reims.

Participants also enjoy a three-course lunch at a French restaurant in Epernay.

The tour offers the following additional inclusions:

• Pickup and drop-off at the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station

• A self-guided tour of Reims Cathedral

• A visit to Hautvillers with a photo stop and champagne tasting

• A self-guided tour of the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay

The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made after this period are subject to a fee.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Participants with special dietary needs should inform the tour provider in advance to ensure the restaurant can accommodate their requirements.

Can I Bring My Own Champagne Bottles to the Tastings?

No, you cannot bring your own champagne bottles to the tastings. The tour includes a guided tasting at a champagne house, where you’ll sample the wines produced by that specific winery as part of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, but it would incur additional costs. Participants can inquire about extending the tour when booking to see if longer options are available and the associated pricing.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment or Attire?

Participants don’t need any special equipment or attire for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there’ll be some light hiking. Dress in layers to adjust to varying temperatures in the champagne cellars.

Recap

This tour offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Champagne region.

Visitors explore the historic cellars of a renowned champagne house in Reims, savor a delightful lunch in Epernay, and indulge in the rich flavors of the region’s finest bubbles along the iconic Avenue de Champagne.

It’s a perfect blend of culture, gastronomy, and the iconic champagne experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: