Champagne & Châteaux

This morning you will be visiting the 'Capital of Champagne', otherwise known as Épernay. The picturesque destination is renowned for its vineyards, historical champagne houses and rich cultural heritage. Explore the world famous 'Avenue de Champagne', where prestigious champagne producers have their elegant cellars. A champagne tasting at a famed champagne house will conclude your morning. After a delightful visit to Épernay, spend the afternoon in Hautvilliers. With breathtaking and uninterrupted views of seas of vineyards cascading down the hillsides, here you will discover the original town of Dom Perignon. His memory hovers over the village, with wrought iron signs, charming lanes and champagne producers enchant its visitors.

This morning you will visit Reims, with its beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Strolling through the city you will see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Reims Cathedral, as well as many other historic buildings, lively cafes and inviting shops. Numerous champagne houses are here where you will sample exquisite champagnes. After lunch at a local restaurant, you can then spend the afternoon enjoying your wonderful hotel.

Châlons en Champagne is a charming city in the heart of the Champagne region. Nestled along the tranquil Marne River, this lovely town is known for well preserved historic architecture and lush green spaces. The Saint-Etienne Cathedral is the most iconic landmark of the city and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before discovering how the numerous central canals and green spaces have kept the significant presence of nature at the heart of the city with an unmissable boat tour.

Explore off the beaten track as you discover the characteristics of the Champagne terroir and its various grape varieties on a journey through the vineyards. An easy 2.2km hike is marked by 12 interactive interpretive stations in the very heart of the vineyards. Unique in Champagne, this walk offers viewpoints and picnic areas along the entire route before finishing with a well deserved Champagne tasting and lunch at a local restaurant.  This afternoon discover the connection between Aÿ and Lalique's artistic legacy in the region. Lalique often used motifs inspired by grapes, vines and nature in his celebrated crystal creations.  Afterwards, visit the innovative Pressoria and embark on a sensory journey in the heart of Champagne. Watch, touch, smell, listen and taste as you explore the immersive and interactive Pressoria tour.

Today you can either spend free at the hotel, with dinner at a local restaurant, or for just £15pp we can book for you to enjoy the Balloon CAPTIF flight. The creative visionary Eugène Mercier designed the first tethered balloon in 1900, giving visitors from all over the world the chance to soar over Paris at the Universal Exhibition. Become a part of the idea that took off to promote Mercier's champagne and join a balloon CAPTIF flight.