Cycling the Vineyards of Champagne

This town is entirely surrounded by vines. Walk down the Avenue de Champagne, with its magnificent mansion facades and opulent middle-class homes occupied by famous Champagne Houses, and you can see why Epernay competes for the title of 'Capital of Champagne'. Here, are miles of underground galleries and millions of bottles of preciously kept champagne away from light and heat. . . In Epernay, cellar visits to the largest champagne houses are among the highlights of the tour. . . And they sparkle with stories and expertise.

Alternatively you can have a first ride with a loop to Hautvillers 43 km Today, you will learn about 'Blanc de Noirs' champagne which is made using only black grapes (Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier). Two grape varieties with darker skin and white flesh. Follow the cycling routes bordered with vineyards, offering magnificent landscapes over the undulating Marne Valley, until Dom Perignon's village: Hautvillers ! It is here that the legend of Champagne was born, thanks to the Benedictine monk Dom Perignon, who was said to have accidentally invented effervescent wine at the end of the 17th century.

He's buried in the abbey of Hautvillers, leaving his name to a vintage produced by a famous Champagne House. Continue through quaint wine villages like Fleury la Riviere or Oeuilly. You stay at Hotel Jean Moet (Breakfast included) (B).