As the world prepares to raise a glass to celebrate International Champagne Day on October 25th, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in the opulence of this iconic drink than its source – the Champagne region of France. This picturesque wine region is home to a treasure trove of champagne but also a variety of unexpected experiences that will take your trip from indulgent to truly luxurious. From seasoned travel enthusiasts to new travellers looking for one-of-a-kind experiences to enjoy with their champagne, the Champagne region of France has something for everyone. If you’re ready to take your love for champagne to new heights, here’s how to celebrate in pure, lavish style –
1. A Private Tour of the Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars
Nestled beneath the cobblestone streets of Champagne’s capital city Épernay, the world-renowned Moët & Chandon cellars house centuries-old bottles of the world’s finest champagne. A private behind-the-scenes tour of the 2,840 acres of vineyards allows travellers to learn about the craft from seasoned cellar masters and delve deeper into the history of this luxurious drink. The lavish experience does not have to stop there – you can even indulge in a gourmet food and cheese pairing session where champagne is perfectly paired with artisanal French delicacies like Agneau à la Champenoise, prepared for a lavish and delicious meal.
2. Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Vineyards
For those seeking a surreal experience, nothing quite compares to a sunset hot air balloon ride over the rolling vineyards of Champagne and Épernay. As the day draws to a close, you’ll float high above the undulating hills, with sprawling rows of vines in golden hues beneath you. You can even get a sky-high view of Avenue de Champagne, which is one of the most expensive streets in the world and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015. The stunning views from the hot air balloon are complemented by a champagne toast, making sure that the memories of your visit to Champagne will last a lifetime.
3. A Private Château Stay in the Countryside
Travellers looking to truly embody French affluence can consider booking one of the many beautifully preserved châteauxs in Champagne. The region is home to luxury stays like a 17th-century chateau with lush French-style gardens, restored ruins, castles, and other historic properties. Your stay could include bespoke services like a personal chef, luxury spas, sommelier-led tastings of rare champagnes, and even a candlelit dinner in a medieval wine cellar. These magnificent estates offer a taste of royal luxury and the charm of French nobility.
4. VIP Tour of the Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame
Known for its grand Gothic architecture and historic significance, the Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame is a must-visit for any traveller in the Champagne region. What was once a near ruin of the First World War is now touted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While a group tour of this stunning location is great, a private guided tour will take your experience to the next level. Marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows and the intricate sculptures that adorn the walls while a private historian guides you through the cathedral’s fascinating past.
5. Indulgent Spa Day in the Heart of Champagne
To balance your exploration of Champagne’s famed vineyards and cellars, unwind at an opulent spa set amid the vineyards. With exclusive access to treatments using vinotherapy—where grape extracts, rich in antioxidants, are used to rejuvenate your skin—you’ll emerge refreshed and glowing. Private spa suites with panoramic views of the vineyards allow you to sip champagne in your luxurious bathrobe as the world slips away, leaving only serenity and indulgence in its wake.
6. Exploring the Petite Village of Hautvillers
For some summertime luxury, a visit to Hautvillers, the birthplace of champagne itself, is essential. Tucked away amidst natural beauty, this quaint village was home to Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with pioneering the champagne-making process. You can explore its charming cobbled streets on a private guided tour, where each twist and turn reveals centuries-old architecture and artisan shops. In summer, this village comes alive with open-air tastings of rare champagnes, ensuring your palate is always entertained.
7. Luxurious Walk on the Marne River
You can cap off your luxurious escapade to Champagne with a walk or cycling along the peaceful Marne River, which joins the Seine just outside Paris. This is the perfect opportunity to bask in the history of Champagne, explore its natural beauty more closely, and even get some exercise. But if you want to be closer to the water, you can go for a private dinner cruise along the river. As you glide past the vineyards and hills, you’ll be treated to a multi-course meal prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. Every dish will be paired with exceptional champagnes, each carefully selected to complement the flavours of your meal.
This International Champagne Day, step beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in the undiscovered luxuries of Champagne, France. Whether it’s a private château stay, a hot air balloon ride at sunset, or a private tour of historic sites like the Reims Cathedral, these experiences promise an unparalleled exploration of one of the world’s most famous wine regions.
About the author
Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) is the leading omnichannel travel company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services including Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, and Visa Services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied TPro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 28 countries across 5 continents.
