Angélique’s electric bike tour in Champagne

Discover Champagne by Electric Bike with a Local Guide in Ay-Champagne

This electric bike tour in Champagne offers an engaging way to explore the vineyards of the Grand Est region of France. Priced at $135 per person and lasting 3.5 hours, it combines scenic cycling, cultural visits, and tastings of three distinct champagnes. The tour departs from 13 Chem. des Mayeurs in Ay-Champagne, making it easily accessible and conveniently located for visitors in the region.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to ride along the route of the grands crus and premiers crus at the intersection of the Reims mountains and the Marne valley. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, authentic immersion into Champagne’s heritage, guided by a local expert born in Épernay. Keep in mind, the tour is designed for small groups of up to eight participants, providing an intimate atmosphere and personal attention.

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Key Points

• Price: $135 per person for a 3.5-hour experience
• Includes: Electric bike rental, guided tour, visit to a cellar, and tasting of three champagnes
• Highlights: Scenic vineyard rides, visits to Hautvillers and a local winemaker’s cellar, and the Abbey of Dom Pérignon
• Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund
• Group Size: Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience
• Languages: Guided in English and French

Meeting at Pedal’N’Pop and Getting Ready to Ride

The tour begins at Pedal’N’Pop, a bike rental shop located at 13 Chemin des Mayeurs in Ay-Champagne. Visitors should arrive a few minutes early to collect their electric bike, which is provided by the partner pedal company. There is parking available nearby, making it easy to start your adventure without logistical worries.

The small group setting ensures that everyone receives attention from the guide, Angélique, who is a born-and-raised Champagne native and has a background in wine production. Her warmth, combined with her knowledgeable storytelling, makes the experience both fun and educational.

Scenic Cycling Through the Champagne Vineyards

The highlight of this tour is the 1.5-hour bike ride through some of the most beautiful vineyards in Champagne. Traveling along the route of the grands crus and premiers crus, the ride offers scenic views of rolling hills and lush grapevines. This route is carefully chosen to showcase the diverse terroirs and distinctive vineyard landscapes.

The electric bikes make it accessible for all levels of cyclists, including those who prefer a relaxed pace or want some assistance on hilly sections. The ride is designed to be a pleasure, not a workout, allowing for plenty of stops to admire the views and take photos.

Visiting Hautvillers and the Abbey of Dom Pérignon

One of the tour’s key stops is in Hautvillers, known as the home of Dom Pérignon. You spend about 30 minutes exploring this charming village, famous for its historic abbey and traditional wine-making culture. The visit here includes a tour of the Abbey of Dom Pérignon, offering insights into the heritage of Champagne production.

This stop also features scenic views that are ideal for photography and soaking in the atmosphere of this iconic Champagne village. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the guide shares stories about the history of the abbey and its influence on Champagne.

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Champagne Tasting in a Local Cellar

The culmination of the tour is a one-hour tasting session in a local winemaker’s cellar. Here, visitors sample three glasses of Champagne, each representing different styles or houses. The tasting takes place in a customary setting, with the winemakers themselves revealing some of their wine secrets in the cellar.

This visit offers a chance to learn about the ancestral know-how involved in Champagne production and appreciate the distinct flavors of each champagne. The atmosphere is sparkling and joyful, making it a memorable part of the experience.

Visiting a Traditional Wine-Press and Cellar

Along With the tasting, the tour includes a visit to a former wine-growing and winemaking facility, providing insight into traditional Champagne production methods. The visit is guided, allowing participants to understand the process of pressing and aging the wine, and how these techniques have been preserved over generations.

The guided tour of this historic site offers a closer look at the heritage and craftsmanship that define Champagne. It’s an enriching complement to the vineyard ride and cellar tasting, giving a well-rounded view of the region’s wine culture.

Scenic Drive Back to Starting Point

After the tasting and visits, the group enjoys a 15-minute scenic drive back to the starting location at 13 Chem. des Mayeurs. During this final stretch, the guide shares additional stories and insights about the Champagne region, rounding out the 3.5-hour experience.

The tour concludes at the same spot where it began, making logistics straightforward for participants. Since personal expenses and purchases of Champagne are not included, visitors can choose to buy bottles directly from the local wineries or simply enjoy the memories.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Operated by ABC Champagne Tour, this experience is designed to be flexible with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Visitors can reserve now and pay later, which offers added convenience for planning travel.

The tour is offered in English and French, catering to international and local visitors alike. With a small group limit, the tour provides a personalized, relaxed environment that allows for meaningful interaction with the guide and winemakers.

Comparing This Tour to Other Champagne Experiences

While this tour emphasizes cycling, local heritage, and authentic visits, similar experiences might include more extensive tastings or lunch options. The small group size and expert guide make it stand out for those seeking a personalized and insightful introduction to Champagne.

Pricing at $135 is reasonable considering the bike rental, guided visits, and three champagne tastings. Visitors should keep in mind that personal expenses like purchasing Champagne are not included, giving flexibility to buy at your own pace.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits riders of all skill levels thanks to the electric bikes and relaxed pace. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with vinicultural education and tasting. The tour’s intimate size and knowledgeable guide make it especially appealing to those interested in local traditions and authentic Champagne culture.

Because the tour includes visits to historic sites and cellars, it appeals to those who appreciate heritage and craftsmanship. The scenic views and joyful atmosphere mean it’s suitable for a broad range of visitors looking for a distinctive Champagne experience.

Final Thoughts on Angélique’s Electric Bike Tour in Champagne

This 3.5-hour tour offers a beautiful combination of scenic cycling, cultural visits, and champagne tastings. The local guide’s warmth and expertise enrich the experience, making it both informative and enjoyable. The small group size ensures a personalized journey through the vineyards and historic sites.

While it doesn’t include lunch or the purchase of Champagne, the value comes through the guided visits and tastings, which highlight the region’s heritage and craftsmanship. It’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxed, authentic introduction to Champagne, especially if they enjoy cycling and scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts 3.5 hours, including bike riding, visits, and tastings.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes electric bike rental, a guided tour with a local expert, visit to a cellar, and tasting of three champagnes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 13 Chem. des Mayeurs in Ay-Champagne, at the Pedal’N’Pop bike rental shop.

Do I need to have cycling experience?
No, the electric bikes make riding accessible for all levels, and the pace is relaxed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is guided in English and French.

Are drinks or Champagne purchases included?
No, personal expenses and Champagne purchases are not included.

What makes this tour unique?
The local guide’s expertise, scenic vineyard routes, and visits to historic sites like Hautvillers and the Abbey of Dom Pérignon set this experience apart.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s best suited for riders of all levels who enjoy vineyard scenery, cultural visits, and champagne tasting in a small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby