Champagne

April 29, 2024

Kick off your European motoring season by exploring the Aisne & the Marne regions on this Champagne Tour. We will lead you via the wonderful open roads and superb scenery found in this area. Whether it be along the vine-lined hills north of Epernay or the open countryside found throughout the Aisne, you can be assured of great driving.

You will stay in a four-star, recently-opened, luxury design hotel, located near Epernay for the four nights of this tour. The hotel is nestled amongst the vines where you will enjoy acclaimed cuisine, relaxed surroundings and superb spa facilities. Dinner is included on three evenings at the hotel, where there will be a twist to each evening to discover the local produce coupled with a wine pairing. We have a surprise evening lined up with one of the big Champagne producers, to offer a truly memorable final evening. We also have some fascinating visits lined up during the driving days, to discover some hidden gems of the region.

Tour Highlights

Visit an independent Champagne house with its own museum
Time in Epernay to visit your favourite Champagne houses, such as Mercier or Moët et Chandon
A visit to the latest immersive attraction dedicated to the regions most well-known product
Learn the art of sabrage with the owner of a private château
Explore a fascinating ruin dating back to 11th century
Three gourmet dinners at the hotel with accompanying wines
A visit, tasting and dinner at a well-known Champagne producer
Champagne tastings along the way

Tour Map

Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Reims Circuit

180 Miles

The tour will start from the Eurotunnel port at Folkestone for a morning crossing to Calais. We will cover the Pas de Calais via the swift French Autoroutes to pick up some more interesting French D-roads at Laon. This will lead us to our rendez-vous in the paddock of the historic Reims circuit. We have arranged afternoon refreshments here before a photo opportunity of the cars in front of the pit buildings. After completing a lap of the circuit, we will proceed directly to our hotel. Having had time to settle into the five-star luxury surroundings we have arranged a Champagne reception followed by dinner prepared by their gastronomic chefs.

Day 2: Bring on the Champagne!

100 Miles

Today we immerse ourselves in Champagne, starting with a visit to the regions most recent edition, a fully immersive and interactive experience. You’ll emerge an expert! To reinforce your knowledge we have a cross-country route to an independent producer, passionate about their product, so much so they built a museum dedicated to Champagne…they are very fond of cars here too. We have arranged a visit, tasting, lunch and quiz here. We have arranged a light evening dinner this evening at the hotel.

Day 3: Learn the art of Sabrage

90 Miles

After breakfast we have a spirited cross-country drive planned for a coffee stop overlooking some historic ruins. The pleasant driving continues along winding French D-roads to a private chateau. Here we will be given a tour of its fascinating history before being taught the art of ‘sabrage’ in front your cars and the chateau. Lunch is included at the chateau. This evening is free to enjoy as you wish.

Day 3: Explore Epernay

After a busy few days we have a relaxed morning planned to give you time to take a drive, enjoy the hotels’ spa or visit your favourite champagne producer. In the afternoon we will be collected by our coach and transported into Epernay. We will kick proceedings off with a 360-degree aerial view of Epernay with Champagne tasting included. We then stroll the streets to one of the major producers for a special visit, tasting and dinner.

Day 5: Depart for Home

180 Miles

After breakfast its time for the farewells and make your way back for the Eurotunnel crossing time of your choice.

Where we'll stay

This tour uses one hotel for a four-night stay. We have selected a four star hotel situated just north of Epernay, nestled in the heart of the Moet & Chandon-owned vines. Recently built, this state-of-the-art hotel incorporates plenty of luxury. The Spa awaits, with both an indoor and outdoor area overlooking the vines. The restaurant specialises in regional cuisine with wine cellars to pair the food perfectly. The location could not be bettered for touring out and exploring the local areas.

What's included

Requirements

All passports must be valid for six months after the end of the tour. You will also need your vehicle registration documents, driving licence (a photo-card licence or international permit is best), and international insurance cover.
Please check with your travel and motor insurers that you are covered for travel in the required countries.
You are also required to carry a warning triangle, first-aid kit, two fluorescent jackets, set of replacement bulbs and a national identification sticker.
Each person must have a passport (and any necessary visas for non-EU passport holders) valid for Switzerland.