The Champagne Route is a designated scenic route that winds through the Champagne-Ardenne region of northeastern France. The route offers travelers the opportunity to explore the history and culture of the Champagne wine region, as well as its natural scenery and attractions.
What Is the Champagne Route
The Route Touristique du Champagne, or Champagne Route, is a scenic route through the Champagne region of France. The route runs for about 170 miles through the vineyards and villages of the Champagne region, from the city of Reims to the town of Epernay. Along the way, visitors can stop to tour Champagne producers, taste the local wines, and learn about the history and production of champagne.
The Champagne Route is one of the most popular tourist attractions in France, and it is easy to see why. For anyone who loves wine, or who wants to experience the beauty of the French countryside, the Champagne Route is a must-visit destination.
The Champagne Route is a name given to the wine route that traverses the Champagne region of France. The route winds its way through vineyards and villages, offering visitors a chance to sample the world-famous sparkling wine and learn about its production. The Champagne Route has its origins in the Middle Ages when pilgrims would travel to the town of Reims to drink the blessed water of its healing springs.
Over time, the pilgrimage became a journey of discovery, as travelers began to explore the picturesque villages and experience the unique culture of the Champagne region. Today, the Champagne Route is one of France’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a glass of bubbly or simply explore a beautiful corner of France, the Champagne Route is sure to please.
The History of the Champagne Route
The Champagne Route is a centuries-old trade route that runs through the Champagne region of France. The route was originally used to transport wine from the region’s many vineyards to the nearby city of Troyes. In the Middle Ages, the route became increasingly popular with pilgrims traveling to the nearby shrine of Saint James.
By the early modern period, the Champagne Route had become one of Europe’s most important trade routes, carrying not only wine but also a variety of other goods. Today, the Champagne Route is a popular tourist destination, and many of the villages and towns along the route offer visitors a glimpse into France’s rich history.
What to See and Do on the Champagne Route
The Champagne Route is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. Spanning over 200 miles, the route takes visitors through the beautiful countryside of the Champagne region, with its rolling hills and vineyards. Along the way, there are numerous opportunities to sample the local product, as well as visit historic sites and learn about the champagne-making process.
1. The City of Reims
The City of Reims is the perfect starting point for exploring the Champagne Route. This world-famous wine region is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in France, and a visit to Reims will provide some chance to sample some of the finest champagnes in the world.
The city is also home to a number of historical landmarks, including the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims, making it an ideal destination for those interested in French history and culture.
Visitors can explore the Gothic cathedral, visit the Palace of Tau, and learn about the city’s role in the history of champagne. With its beautiful setting and rich variety of things to see and do, the City of Reims is an essential stop on any trip to France.
2. The Champagne producers
Champagne is world-famous for its sparkling wine, and there are many opportunities to tour producers and taste the local wines along the Champagne Route.
The Champagne region of France is home to some of the world’s finest sparkling wines. The climate and soils of the region are ideally suited for growing the three traditional grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Champagne producers follow strict rules in order to protect the reputation of their wines.
Only wines made from grapes grown in the Champagne region can be called Champagne, and only wines that undergo a second fermentation in the bottle can be labeled as “sparkling”. As a result, Champagne is one of the most tightly regulated wine regions in the world.
There are over 15,000 vineyards in the Champagne region, spread across five distinct sub-regions. The most famous producers are based in the villages of Reims and Epernay, which are located in the heart of Champagne’s prime growing areas.
Reims is home to champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot and Krug, while Epernay is the base for producers such as Moet & Chandon and Dom Perignon. Other well-known Champagne brands include Taittinger, Ruinart, and Bollinger. While many Champagne producers offer tours and tastings, the best way to explore the region is on foot or by bike, following the champagne Route through picturesque vineyards and countryside.
3. The villages and towns
From the historic town of Epernay to the charming village of Hautvillers, there are plenty of picturesque places to explore along the Champagne Route.
The villages and towns of the Champagne Route offer visitors a chance to explore the picturesque French countryside and taste some of the world’s finest Champagne. The region is home to many famous producers, including Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Cristal.
In addition to champagne tasting, many of the villages offer charming shops and restaurants, as well as opportunities for hiking and biking. The Champagne Route is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, and it is easy to see why.
The Route also offers a chance to relax and enjoy the many charming villages and towns that dot the landscape. With so much to see and do, the Champagne Route is sure to please visitors of all ages.
How to Get to the Champagne Route
The Champagne Route is a popular tourist destination in France, known for its vineyards and stunning scenery. Getting there is easy, whether you’re coming from Paris or elsewhere in the country. By car, the quickest route is to take the A4 motorway from Paris. The journey takes just over two hours. Alternatively, you can take the slower but more scenic route via the D919 road.
This winds through the picturesque villages of the Champagne region and takes around three hours. If you’re coming from further afield, the best option is to fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle airport and then rent a car or take the train. Whichever way you choose to travel, make sure you allow plenty of time to explore the Champagne Route and all it has to offer.
Where to Stay on the Champagne Route
The Champagne Route is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. The route runs for about 170 miles, from the city of Reims to the village of Epernay. Along the way, visitors can tour some of the most famous champagne houses in the world, learn about the process of making champagne, and taste some of the finest bubbly available.
With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to stay. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect place to stay on the Champagne Route.
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, there are plenty of upscale hotels and resorts to choose from. The Hotel de la Paix in Reims is a good choice, with its stylish rooms and excellent restaurant. For something a bit different, you could try staying in a vineyard guesthouse or an Airbnb rental.
This will give you the chance to experience life in a small French village and get a taste of what it’s like to live in a working vineyard. Here are the three popular accommodations along the Champagne Route:
Chateau de la Marquetterie
A luxurious chateau hotel located in the heart of the Champagne region, Chateau de la Marquetterie offers guests a chance to stay in a beautiful historic property and experience all that the Champagne Route has to offer.
Address: Rue de la Marquetterie, 51530 Pierry, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
La Ferme aux Moines
This charming bed and breakfast is located in the village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne. La Ferme aux Moines offers guests a unique opportunity to stay in an 18th-century farmhouse and learn about the history of Champagne production.
Address: Rue de Thys 38, 6900 Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Maison du Bourgeois
This elegant bed and breakfast is located in Epernay, just minutes from some of the world’s most famous champagne houses. Maison du Bourgeois offers guests a chance to stay right in the heart of the action and experience everything that Epernay has to offer.
Address: 8 Rue de l’Abbaye, 51130 Blancs-Coteaux, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Whichever type of accommodation you choose, make sure to book early – demand is high during peak season!
Food and Drink on the Champagne Route
The Champagne Route is a scenic drive through the Champagne region of France. The route winds its way through vineyards and picturesque villages, making it the perfect way to explore the area’s wine country. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the local bubbly.
In addition, the Champagne Route is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet meal.
1. Try a glass of champagne at one of the world-famous champagne houses along the route
A glass of champagne is a must-have when touring the Champagne rn of France. The Champagne Route is dotted with world-famous champagne houses, each offering its own unique blend of this bubbly delight. When choosing a glass of champagne, be sure to ask about the house’s specialties.
You may also want to purchase a bottle or two to take home with you. Touring the Champagne Route is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and enjoying a glass of champagne is the perfect way to make it even more memorable.
2. Sample some local charcuterie and cheese at a farmhouse inn or bistro
The ChampagneRoute is home to some of France’s finest culinary creations, including mouth-watering charcuterie and cheese. When visiting the area, be sure to sample some of these local delicacies at a farmhouse inn or bistro.
You’ll be treated to an unforgettable gastro experience as you savor the unique flavors of the region. Here are the three popular farmhouse inns or bistros where you can try a local charcuterie and cheese:
Au Roy Jardin
This bistro is located in the heart of Epernay, just minutes from some of the world’s most famous champagne houses. Au Roy Jardin offers guests a chance to sample some of the region’s best charcuterie and cheese dishes.
La Ferme aux Moines
This charming bed and breakfast is located in the village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne. La Ferme aux Moines offers guests a unique opportunity to stay in an 18th-century farmhouse and learn about the history of Champagne production.
Maison du Bourgeois
This elegant bed and breakfast is located in Epernay, just minutes from some of the world’s most famous champagne houses. Maison du Bourgeois offers guests a chance to stay right in the heart of the action and experience everything that Epernay has to offer.
3. Indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants on the route
The Champagne Route is a scenic drive through the Champagne region of France. The route winds its way through vineyards and picturesque villages, making it the perfect way to explore the area’s wine country.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the local bubbly. In addition, the Champagne Route is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet meal.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable gastronomic experience, be sure to check out one of these three Michelin-starred restaurants:
La Cote Saint Jacques
This award-winning restaurant is located in Joigny, just a short drive from Paris. La Cote Saint Jacques offers guests a chance to enjoy classic French cuisine with a modern twist.
Address: 14 Fbg de Paris, 89300 Joigny, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
L’Auberge du Vieux Puits
This acclaimed restaurant is located in Fontjoncouse, in the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region. L’Auberge du Vieux Puits offers diners an exquisite culinary experience, with dishes that reflect the flavors and traditions of southern France.
Address: 5 Av. Saint-Victor, 11360 Fontjoncouse, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
L’Esprit de la Violette
This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in Avignon, in the heart of Provence. L’Esprit de la Violette offers guests a chance to enjoy a gourmet meal while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Provence.
The region is famous for its sparkling wine, and the restaurants on the route offer an excellent selection of champagnes to accompany your meal. There are also many other great wines from the region to choose from.
Address: 10 avenue de la Violette 13100 Aix En Provence, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some of the local dishes that are served at these restaurants. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable dining experience on the Champagne Route.
Additional Information About the Champagne Route
The Champagne region is located in the northeastern part of France, about 100 miles east of Paris. Although the route can be traveled year-round, the best time to visit is in the fall, when the grapes are harvested and the bubbly wine is produced. The route includes several stops where visitors can tour vineyards, taste champagne, and learn about the history and production of this famous beverage.
In addition, there are several towns along the route that are worth exploring, including Reims, where many of the large champagne houses are located. For those interested in learning more about champagne, the Champagne Route is a perfect destination.
In conclusion
The Champagne Route is a scenic drive through the Champagne region of France. The route winds its way through vineyards and picturesque villages, making it the perfect way to explore the area’s wine country.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the local bubbly. In addition, the Champagne Route is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet meal. If you’re looking for an unforgettable gastronomic experience, be sure to check out one of these three Michelin-starred restaurants: La Cote Saint Jacques, L’Auberge du Vieux Puits, or L’Esprit de la Violette.
The region is famous for its sparkling wine, and the restaurants on the route offer an excellent selection of champagnes to accompany your meal. There are also many other great wines from the region to choose from.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some of the local dishes that are served at these restaurants. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable dining experience on the Champagne Route
