If you’re looking for a destination just outside of Paris, I highly recommend renting a car and heading to Champagne. In less than two hours, you’ll find yourself in one of the most welcoming wine regions of France. I’ve been to Champagne several times and have always had a great experience.
Upon arrival in the region you want to do two things straight away. First, visit Notre Dame de Reims, also known as Reims Cathedral. The cathedral is a gothic masterpiece of the 13th century and the traditional location for the coronation of the kings of France. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991 and it’s magnificent. Second, visit the tourist office at the corner of cathedral square. Here you’ll find friendly staff and everything you need to plan your visit within the cities of Reims and Epernay, as well as the surrounding vineyards. Most important, be sure to pick up a map and a La Route du Champagne brochure. The brochure divides the region into five distinct areas and provides an easy-to-read driving map of each area – denoting every small town, tasting site, and point of interest along the way. Moreover, distinct and colorful road signs mark the “route” corresponding to the color-coded maps in the brochure.
Where we stayed
Chateau d’Etoges | We spent two nights at Chateau d’Etoges and had a wonderful experience. The château was build in the 17th century and is listed as a Historical Monument. It is perfectly situated southwest of Epernay and combines all the refinement and comfort of a charming hotel with the serenity of a private château. The château is also home to a beautiful gourmet restaurant called L’Orangerie and a more casual restaurant called L’Atelier.
Where we explored
The Region | We spent the entire second day traveling through the vineyards of Champagne following two of the five driving routes, stopping at producers along the way. At each site, we learned a bit about the producer, the blend, did a tasting and, to be sure, made a purchase. Unless you’re on a paid tour hosted by one of the large producers, it’s customary and polite to purchase a couple of bottles.
Moet & Chandon | Over the years, I have visited many of the large champagne houses in Epernay, but my best experiences have always been at Moet & Chandon. The staff is exceptionally friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. The tours are well organized, informative, and a bit romantic – the history of the house and the smell of the fermenting grapes create an environment like no other. If you decide to take a cellar tour, by all means, bring a wrap or jacket. It can get quite cold below ground and the tours last over an hour.
Where we ate
L’Orangerie | Our first night, we ate at the L’Orangerie on the grounds of the château. As you can imagine, the service the impeccable and the food was delicious. The dining room is elegant yet understated and the tables are well positioned for comfort and private conversations. We felt well cared for and had a wonderful three-course dinner complete with an amuse-bouche and small selection of sweets to finish.
In-room dining | On our second night, we ate in the room, but it was not room service. We were absolutely exhausted from touring the region by car. So, we picked up bread, cheese, foie gras and charcuterie from the local market, and the famous Biscuit Roses for dessert. Our room was spacious with a seating arrangement, dining table, and fireplace. Dining in for the night was a great option.
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