Reims or Epernay: Short day family growers & lunch

Key Points

• Duration: 7 hours, starting at 11:15 am from Reims
• Price: $252 per person, includes tastings and a French lunch
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience
• Highlights: Drive along Avenue de Champagne, visit UNESCO vineyards, and explore a family-run winery
• Expert Guide: English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary throughout the day
• Age Restriction: Suitable for adults 18 and over, with dietary options available

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Champagne’s Famous Vineyards and Villages

This 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at the Champagne region, departing from Reims and Epernay. The tour starts at 11:15 am with a meet-up at the Reims train station, where an English-speaking guide will take you on a journey through prestigious vineyards and charming villages.

The first highlight is a drive down the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, home to renowned champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, Mercier, Pol Roger, and Boizel. This street showcases some of the most famous champagne estates, and the guide explains their significance in the region’s champagne production.

Next, the tour includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, where you learn about the region’s viticulture and see the hillside vineyards that make Champagne so unique. This stop offers a chance to appreciate the landscape, and the guide shares insights into the history and traditions of champagne-making.

Discover the Village of Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Church

A visit to Hautvillers is a highlight for those interested in Champagne history. The village is famous as the home of Dom Pérignon, who is buried there, and the tour includes a stroll through its picturesque streets.

At Hautvillers, you’ll find a stunning viewpoint perfect for photos, overlooking the vineyards. The guide shares stories about Dom Pérignon and the village’s significance in the development of Champagne, giving you a glimpse into the past of this celebrated region.

Visit a Family-Run Champagne Estate and Tasting Sessions

A small, family-operated winery is featured on the tour, offering an authentic look at traditional champagne-making. The visit includes tastings of 5 glasses, giving insight into the different styles and flavors produced by this intimate producer.

The visit to the estate provides an inside look at their winemaking process, highlighting what makes their approach unique. This experience is both educational and enjoyable, especially for those interested in understanding the craft behind Champagne.

Enjoy a French Lunch Paired with Champagne

A key part of this tour is a lunch in a Champagne estate, where food is paired thoughtfully with a selection of champagnes. The meal is designed to complement the flavors of the wines, and dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated if communicated in advance.

This lunch offers a relaxed setting to enjoy local cuisine and discuss the day’s tastings. The experience combines gastronomy and viticulture, giving a true taste of French lifestyle.

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Logistics: Easy Pickup and Small Group Experience

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Reims at the tourist office in the center. Transport is by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

The small-group size, limited to 8 participants, guarantees personalized attention from the guide. This format enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and tailored explanations.

Timing, Pacing, and Physical Considerations

Starting at 11:15 am and concluding around 5:30 pm, the tour is well-paced, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The itinerary involves walking through villages and vineyards, but it does not specify strenuous activity. The tour’s nature makes it suitable for most adults, but it excludes children under 18, pets, and non-folding wheelchairs/strollers.

The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should prepare for all weather conditions. Dietary needs can be accommodated, but it’s essential to mention allergies at booking.

Value and Price for the Champagne Experience

At $252 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the tastings at two wineries, the lunch, and guided visits. Entrance fees, tastings, and lunch are included, making it a comprehensive experience for those keen to learn about Champagne without extra costs.

The tour is designed for small groups, providing a more personal and engaging experience compared to larger coach tours. This setup is ideal for visitors who appreciate a relaxed, informative, and intimate exploration of Champagne.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Experiences

This specific experience emphasizes family-run wineries and a personalized approach, with small group sizes and direct exposure to traditional champagne-making. While other tours may focus on larger estates or different regions, this tour provides a good balance of iconic sights, authentic winery visits, and culture.

Similar experiences include options that combine tastings with city visits or focus on specific champagne brands, but this tour’s strength lies in its authenticity and local charm.

Suitable for Who and Who Might Not Enjoy It

This tour suits adults who are passionate about champagne, enjoy scenic countryside, and appreciate small, guided groups. It is a good choice for those seeking an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at family wineries and regional villages.

However, it is not suitable for children under 18, or travelers with limited mobility if walking between sites becomes challenging. Also, those looking for a more extensive or VIP-only experience might find this tour’s group size and scope modest.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Day Tour

This 7-hour tour from Reims or Épernay offers a well-rounded experience for champagne lovers eager to explore the region’s vineyards and enjoy authentic tastings. The small-group format, combined with visits to family-run wineries and a charming village, creates a personal and educational atmosphere.

The lunch paired with champagne adds a satisfying culinary dimension, making this tour suitable for those who want more than just tastings. With excellent reviews praising the guide and overall value, this experience stands out for its intimate setting and authentic focus.

The only limitations are its age restriction and the fact that it operates rain or shine, so travelers should be prepared for weather. For an enriching day in the Champagne region, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable, and memorable way to discover France’s sparkling wine capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the price of the tour?
  The tour costs $252 per person, including tastings and lunch.

• What is included in the tour?
  It includes guided visits, tastings of 5 glasses, lunch in a Champagne estate, pickup and drop-off in Reims, and entrance fees for two wineries.

• Where does the tour start?
  The tour departs from Reims train station at 11:15 am; exact meeting points may vary depending on booking options.

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 5:30 pm.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
  Yes, dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated if advised at the time of booking.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  No, the minimum age for participation is 18 years.

• What types of champagne are tasted?
  The tour features 5 glasses from the selected wineries, offering a variety of styles.

• Can I bring pets or wheelchairs?
  Pets and non-folding wheelchairs or strollers are not permitted.

• What makes this tour different from others?
  Its focus on family-run wineries, small group size, and authentic village visits make it an intimate way to experience Champagne.

• How should I prepare for the weather?
  The tour operates rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing and weather gear.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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