Champagne Holiday
The Champagne region is known the world over for its famous Champagne houses and for the 2000 year-old city of Reims, whose cathedral was the scene of many coronations of French Kings. The cathedral, along with the Palace of Tau and the abbey and basilica of Saint-Remi, is classed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
With a stunning display of Gothic art, the cathedral, built in the 13th century, is one of the greatest masterpieces of the Middle-Ages. Destined to be the site of coronations, it was equipped with the most beautiful facades in the kingdom and adorned with over 2300 sculpted motifs.
When you have finished exploring the sights and monuments of Reims, discover the world of Champagne, and the 250 kilometres of Gallo-Roman chalk cellars which hide millions of bottles deep underground. Choose to travel on foot or by electric train as you descend 30 metres below prestigious houses and residences, and prepare to take a different approach to Champagne.
Epernay, known internationally as the capital of Champagne is situated at the crossroads of the Champagne routes, which cross some of the most reputable land in the region. In Epernay, the real spectacle is underground in the cellars which hide its treasures. You cannot say you have truly experienced this region unless you explore the cellars of the finest Champagne houses. The 'panoramic' lift that descends into the vaults of the Mercier house is really something to behold!
Epernay also has a town centre steeped in history. The Avenue de Champagne is a prime example; lined with the beautiful 19th century Renaissance townhouses which are home to the best known Champagne houses in the world such as Moët and Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, Mercier and De Castellane. The tower at the De Castellane residence offers a magnificent view over Epernay and its vineyards.
In this region with so much to explore, the essential things to see and do are: the Avenue de Champagne; the Hôtel de Ville; the Orangery; the Château Perrier with its Museum of Prehistory, Archaeology, and the wines of Champagne; the De Castellane Tower and Museum; the Portail Saint-Martin; the Gabrielle Dorziat theatre; the stained-glass windows of Notre-Dame church; and the Synagogue with its stunning rose-windows.
As the historical capital of Champagne, today Troyes is well known for its flourishing textile industry and numerous factory outlets dedicated to shopping.
You cannot miss a walk around the town centre, known as the 'Champagne cork' due to its unusual shape. The pedestrian zone boasts lovely 16th century houses which have had their traditional half-timbered fascias beautifully restored, the Maison Boulanger, the Goldsmiths Tower and numerous churches adorned with exceptional stained-glass windows. The sculpted stone rood-arch of the church of Sainte-Madeleine is one of the most beautiful in France, and the basilica of the church of Saint-Urbain is a true masterpiece of gothic art.
This region unites history enthusiasts and lovers of the elegant "art de vivre" of France. We provide the ingredients to give your holiday a really unique favour and depth; a break exclusively tailored to suit your needs. All you have to do is dream and let France Romantic Travel do the rest!
