Day trip by van in Champagne small group of 8

A full-day adventure through the heart of Champagne, this small-group tour offers an intimate and comprehensive look at the region’s most celebrated wines. Priced at $315.26 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, departing from Reims in France. Led by knowledgeable guides, it combines visits to renowned Champagne houses, a historic abbey, a charming village, and a family-owned winery. With only 8 travelers maximum, this tour promises a personalized experience that stands out for its quality and depth. While the price includes all cellar visits and tastings, lunch, and transportation, travelers should be aware that the schedule is quite full, making it best suited for those with a keen interest in Champagne and comfortable walking.

This tour is especially ideal for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized day exploring both the historical and production sides of Champagne. Its high ratings—5.0 based on 37 reviews—highlight its popularity and the consistent praise for its expert guides, delicious tastings, and well-curated stops. The tour’s flexibility and focus on small groups ensure a more personal, engaging visit than larger, busier options.

Key Points

• Price of $315.26 per person covers all visits, tastings, lunch, and transportation.
• Duration of approximately 8.5 hours makes for an immersive day in Champagne.
• Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Visit to Champagne Alfred Gratien includes cellar tour and 2 tastings, plus historical insights.
• Charming stop at Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers offers panoramic views and a connection to Dom Pérignon.
• Traditional French lunch at Chez Max includes Champagne, wine, and vegetarian/vegan options.
• Afternoon walk along Avenue de Champagne reveals the architecture of famous Champagne houses.
• End-of-day visit to independent family-owned winery provides a behind-the-scenes look with tasting.
• Tour concludes at Reims Station or central points, with a short city tour of Reims included.

Exploring the Champagne Alfred Gratien Cellars

The tour starts with a visit to Champagne Alfred Gratien, located in Epernay or Reims depending on availability. The guide, Angélique, leads you through the cellars, where you learn about the history of Champagne production from the founding fathers to current cellar masters. This visit lasts about 90 minutes and features two guided tastings that highlight the house’s craftsmanship. The intimate setting and detailed explanations make this stop a highlight for wine enthusiasts eager to understand the nuances of Champagne making.

Discovering Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Legacy

Next, the tour heads toward the village of Hautvillers, famed as the birthplace of Dom Pérignon. This picturesque hillside village offers sweeping views of the Montagne de Reims, Marne Valley, and Côte des Blancs. The Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers remains a key site, with its Benedictine monastery dating back to 1668. Visitors appreciate the free admission, the tranquil atmosphere, and the chance to connect with the history of Champagne’s innovation through Dom Pérignon’s contributions to blending techniques.

Authentic French Lunch with Champagne in Epernay

A key feature of this tour is the lunch break at Chez Max, a traditional French cuisine restaurant. Lunch lasts about 90 minutes and includes a main course, vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options, and Champagne. The meal also features a glass of red wine and coffee, providing a well-rounded dining experience. This stop offers a chance to relax, chat, and reflect on the morning’s discoveries amid a friendly local atmosphere.

Walking Along Avenue de Champagne

Post-lunch, the tour proceeds to Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, a famous street lined with historic Champagne houses. The architecture here is impressive, with estates like Moët et Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, and Pol Roger showcasing their magnificent facades. The 110 km of cellar tunnels beneath this avenue contain over 200 million bottles, making it arguably the world’s most prolific Champagne hub. This 45-minute walk offers both photo opportunities and insights into the legacy of Champagne production.

Visiting an Independent Family Winery

The afternoon features a visit to Scev Champagne Blosseville Marniquet, an independent winegrower. The family-owned operation, responsible for 90% of the Champagne Appellation’s hectares, shares its centuries-old traditions and production secrets. The cellar tour is a special moment, emphasizing family heritage and the terroir that defines quality Champagne. The tasting session here includes comments on food pairing and is praised for its authenticity and personal touch.

Reims City Tour and Final Stop

The tour concludes with a city tour of Reims, highlighting Gallo-Roman remains, Place Royale, and the Gothic Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned. This 45-minute city walk provides a cultural context to the region, enriching the Champagne experience. Afterward, the group returns to Reims Station or central points, with the tour ending between 5:30 pm and 6:00 pm.

Logistics and Group Size

This full-day tour begins at 9:00 am and is designed for small groups of up to 8 travelers, fostering an intimate environment. Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, with all cellar visits and tastings included in the price. The meeting points are accessible, and the tour is suitable for most participants, with service animals allowed.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $315.26 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the multiple visits, tastings, lunch, and guided city tour. Most bookings are made 99 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Cancellation is free if made 24 hours before the start, making it a flexible option for planning.

Why Choose This Champagne Tour?

This small-group experience stands out for its personalized approach, expert guides, and well-balanced itinerary. The stops include both prestigious Champagne houses and authentic family wineries, offering a comprehensive view of the region’s production methods and history. The inclusion of lunch and city touring makes it a full-day immersion perfect for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

Travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day in Champagne love this tour. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides are ideal for those wanting an insider’s perspective. It suits visitors who appreciate detailed explanations, authentic tastings, and cultural sightseeing. The tour is also accessible for most people, with minimal physical demands and service animals permitted.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Small-Group Day Trip

This full-day tour in Reims delivers a thorough exploration of Champagne, combining history, production, and scenic views. The expert guidance and careful selection of stops ensure a rich experience suitable for passionate wine enthusiasts or first-time visitors alike. While the schedule is busy, the personalized attention and excellent value make it a strong choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of Champagne in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
All cellar visits, tastings, lunch, transportation, and the city tour of Reims are included in the $315.26 price.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending around 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Champagne Alfred Gratien, Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, a traditional lunch at Chez Max, Avenue de Champagne, Scev Champagne Blosseville Marniquet, and a city tour of Reims.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the lunch at Chez Max features multiple menu options, Champagne, a glass of red wine, and coffee.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Are the tastings included in the cost?
Yes, all cellar visits and tastings are included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with no specific restrictions noted. Service animals are allowed.

What makes this tour different from others?
The small-group format, expert local guide, and a balanced mix of prestigious houses and family wineries set this tour apart.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 99 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

This small-group Champagne day trip in Reims offers a rich, personalized exploration of the region’s best-loved producers, scenic villages, and historic sites—all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package.