Discovery Tour Reims and Epernay

Explore Champagne’s Heartland: Reims and Epernay in One Day

This Discovery Tour Reims and Epernay offers an engaging way to experience the essence of France’s Champagne region in just 9 hours. For $293 per person, the tour provides a compact yet comprehensive journey through two of the area’s most iconic cities, with a small group limited to 7 participants ensuring personalized attention. The tour includes visits to renowned champagne houses, a visit to the impressive Reims Cathedral, and a stop in Hautvillers, the birthplace of Dom Pérignon.

While the itinerary is full and carefully planned, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some walking and vehicle transfers, and is not suitable for wheelchair users or pets. The experience is best suited for those who enjoy in-depth visits, tasting champagne at prestigious houses, and exploring historic sites in a relaxed pace.

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Key Points

• Small group experience limited to 7 participants for personalized attention
• Visits to renowned champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot or Pommery, with Gallo-Roman cellar tours and tastings
• Includes a guided visit to Reims Cathedral and a stop in Hautvillers, the home of Dom Pérignon
• A full day of sightseeing, with lunch at a French restaurant included
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned Volkswagen minivan with convenient pickup and drop-off at Reims train station
• Timing from 9am to 6pm with carefully scheduled stops and guided tours

Discovering the Champagne Cellars and Their Gallo-Roman Roots

One of the standout features of this tour is the visit to Gallo-Roman cellars, housed in superb champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot or Pommery. These cellars showcase impressive galleries carved into chalk pits, giving a glimpse into the historic methods of champagne aging. Visitors get to walk through long underground galleries and enjoy tastings of champagne directly from the cellars, offering both a sensory experience and insight into the craftsmanship.

The entrance fees for these cellar visits are included, ensuring a seamless experience. The guided tour of the cellars provides context on the history and production of champagne, enriching the tasting experience and deepening understanding of this world-famous sparkling wine.

Marvel at Reims Cathedral’s Architectural Grandeur

The tour includes a self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame, a highlight for its stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to admire the ornate facade, famous sculptures, and the magnificent interior. While it is a self-guided visit, ample informational signs help appreciate the cathedral’s history and artistry.

This stop offers a moment of reflection amid the more active parts of the day, balancing sightseeing with relaxation. The cathedral’s central role in French history makes it an important cultural landmark, and its beauty is a true treat for architecture lovers.

Savor a Traditional French Lunch

After the morning visits, the tour pauses for a 1.5-hour lunch break at either Au p’tit Comptoir in Reims or the Théâtre in Epernay. The included three-course meal offers a taste of local cuisine, providing a well-deserved break before the afternoon’s activities. While drinks during lunch are not included, the setting allows for relaxed conversation and enjoyment of the regional flavors.

This flexible lunch stop also allows for some personal choice, whether guests prefer a classic French dish or a more contemporary offering, depending on the restaurant selected.

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Exploring Epernay’s Famous Avenue de Champagne

In Epernay, the tour highlights the Avenue de Champagne, a prestigious street lined with historic champagne houses. Visitors are free to explore this self-guided area for about 15 minutes, soaking in the elegant architecture and vibrant retail outlets. This avenue is known for its luxury champagne boutiques and charming streetscapes, making it perfect for casual browsing and photo opportunities.

The guided tour continues at a local champagne house, where visitors learn about the production process and enjoy a champagne tasting session. The visit lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to sample different varieties and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Charm of Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Legacy

Few stops capture the spirit of Champagne more than Hautvillers, the village famous as the cradle of Champagne and the home of Dom Pérignon. The tour includes a 30-minute stop at a viewpoint, where visitors can admire the scenic landscape while sipping a glass of champagne. The visit underscores Hautvillers’ significance in champagne history and its picturesque charm.

This stop provides a relaxing moment amid the day’s activities, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the peaceful vineyard scenery. The combination of scenic views and tasting makes it a memorable highlight of the tour.

Visiting Top Champagne Houses: Mercier or Nicolas Feuillatte

The tour concludes with a visit to either Champagne Mercier (a part of the LVMH group) or Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, both celebrated producers in France. These visits last around 1.5 hours and include guided tours and champagne tastings. Guests learn about production methods, history, and get to enjoy samples of some of France’s favorite champagnes.

By choosing between these houses, visitors get a taste of different styles and traditions, enriching their understanding of regional variations. The experience is designed to be both informative and enjoyable, closing the day on a high note.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs at 9am from the Office de Tourisme du Grand Reims – Site Gare, with transportation in an air-conditioned Volkswagen minivan. The vehicle allows for up to 7 participants, ensuring a small-group environment for more personalized service.

The itinerary includes multiple short vehicle transfers, each lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes, making the day flow smoothly. The return to Reims train station is scheduled around 6pm, completing a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Pickup and drop-off at the train station make it convenient for those staying nearby or arriving via train. The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants and is conducted in French or English, depending on the group.

Value and Additional Information

The price of $293 covers all entrance fees, tastings, lunch, and transportation, providing good value considering the number of experiences packed into the day. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers with changing plans.

While pets are not allowed and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it remains an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone seeking a rundown of Champagne in a single day.

The Sum Up: A Well-Structured Champagne Experience

This Discovery Tour offers a balanced mix of historic sites, world-class champagne tasting, and scenic village visits, all within a 9-hour window. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of lunch and all tastings simplifies planning.

It’s an ideal choice for those who want to maximize their time in Champagne without sacrificing depth or quality. The tour’s highlights—Reims Cathedral, Hautvillers, the champagne cellars, and Avenue de Champagne—are all covered with careful attention to detail.

However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of activity and some walking. If visiting Champagne’s historic cellars and enjoying tastings at top houses appeals most, this tour delivers a dependable, enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The $293 fee covers transportation, entrance fees for champagne house visits, tastings, and a three-course lunch.

How long are the champagne tastings?
Tastings at the champagne houses and cellar visits typically last around 1.5 hours, with additional time at Hautvillers and Avenue de Champagne.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transport in a Volkswagen minivan, with pickup and drop-off at Reims train station.

Can children participate in this tour?
The tour is designed for adults and not suitable for children. It also not accessible for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended, especially for cellar visits where it can be cool.

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

Is the tour conducted in English?
The tour is offered in French and English, depending on the group composition.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

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