This week, I had the unique opportunity to attend the Nuit de Champagne which took place at the Residence of France in Beverly Hills.
Events like these, which are held in several cities around the United States, are organized to spread a simple but powerful message. French Champagne is the only authentic Champagne. In addition, this drink, produced with ancient methods, is associated with luxury, exclusivity and beauty.
These events are celebrated in key cities of the United States in order to promote France’s excellence and the friendship between the two countries.
Attendees participated of a presentation highlighting the best of the Champagne-Ardenne region, a reception where champagne, hot appetizers and desserts were served and an electrifying demonstration by the Order of the Golden Saber.
The event I was able to attend was delightful from beginning to end. I ended learning quite a lot about an area of France that is sometimes overlooked by more popular destinations in the country. I figured you would be interested in taking a glimpse into this place. After all, I can’t think about a travel and food lover who would not be interested in learning more about Champagne.
Here, in my own words, are 9 reasons why you should consider visiting the Champagne-Ardenne region.
- The Champagne region is located close to Paris
Reims (the gateway of Champagne) is located 45 minutes from Paris and 30 minutes from Charles de Gaulle Airport by high speed train (TGV). Because of that, the area is an easy day trip from Paris (but more time in the area is advised).
A visit to the region is even possible if you are visiting Paris by ship. Cruise companies like Celebrity stay in port two nights to allow guests maximize their time in the French capital and surrounding areas.
- Champagne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2015, the hillsides, houses and cellars of Champagne were awarded the World Heritage distinction for its outstanding universal value.
UNESCO recognizes the intricate details needed to achieve an excellent product and the structured system used to take an artisan crop to a mass production sold around the world (without losing its essence). In summary, nothing is ordinary in Champagne.
- Reims is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
One UNESCO Heritage site is not enough. Not in a region like Champagne. Several buildings in Reims, the largest city by population, were declared World Heritage Sites in 1991.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral was the coronation site of the kings of France for more than 800 years. The Abbey of Saint-Remi and the Palace of Tau are considered architectural gems too.
Moreover, Reims has Roman ruins and has been declared a City of Arts and History by the French government.
- Incredible Gastronomy in Reims
I think I do not have to emphasize this point but, just in case, let me remind you some of the most famous Champagne houses are located within city limits. While in town, make plans to visit Taittinger, MUMM, Lanson, Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot, G.H. Martel and many more.
The most exciting thing is that visitors are allowed to tour the cellars, some of which are located in Roman stone quarries, and others which were excavated in the 13th century by Benedictine monks. Isn’t that amazing?
Food takes a central place in the region too. Place Drouet d’Erlon, a pedestrian plaza in the heart of the city, is lined with restaurants, cafes and cheese / chocolate vendors. Café du Palace surprises with its Art Deco style and Le Millenaire with its contemporary aesthetic. Those in search of fresh produce should visit the Halles du Boulingrin.
- Biscuit Rose
This entry should fall under gastronomy but, let’s face it; we love to invent categories when we talk about desserts and sweets.
The pink biscuit of Reims is dipped in Champagne and it is distinctive because it does not break when moistened. It acquired its pink color when bakers attempted to cover the black dots left by the vanilla pods. This heavenly piece of goodness is true to its name, it is double cooked (that is what bis-cuit means).
- Epernay, The City Located Over a City
Epernay, is considered the capital of Champagne because it is the main trading port of the product. The city has the distinction of holding 200 million of champagne bottles in 110 km of subterranean cellars.
The main attraction in here is the Avenue de Champagne, a street deriving its name from the world’s leading champagne producers located within its length. Moet et Chandon, Mercier, De Castellane and Lafond are some of the recognized names present in this avenue. This is must visit for gastronomy lovers.
- Champagne Tourist Route
I have mentioned some of the most famous Champagne houses in this article but bear in mind there are more than 15,000 wine growers in the area. Some sell their production to the Champagne houses while other produce their own wines.
As an advocate for artisan, small production businesses, I recommend visiting less popular Champagne makers. The Champagne Tourist Route takes visitors to vineyards, castles, villages and spectacular churches. As you can see, the area has a little bit for all preferences.
- Troyes, the Medieval Beauty
Located south of Reims and Epernay, Troyes is renowned by its many half-timbered houses. This is one of the best places in France to get an idea of how the country looked during medieval times. Plus, nobody can deny the fairy tale atmosphere of the town.
- Natural Beauty
Yes, we can consider a landscape full of vineyards a beautiful thing. However, the Champagne area has lakes, regional parks and rivers (Seine, Marne, Aube). Do not hesitate to visit if you are interested in enjoying this aspect of the region.
Here you have it my friends. Hope you have learned interesting things about this superb area of France. Just a reminder, Champagne Day is celebrated on October 21st!
Many thanks to the sponsors who made this event possible (Celebrity Cruises, Atout France, Reims Tourism, Epernay Tourism Office, Confrerie du Sabre d’Or, Sturia, Link Paris, French Quarter Magazine).
What interests you more about the Champagne-Ardenne Region?
Ready to pin? Let’s do this!
Carol says
My brother-in-law is a wine connoisseur and gourmet cook. They have visited this region several times. Lovely post. Love the church.
Ruth says
So great your brother in law has been! Yes, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is fantastic.
Photo(Geo)grapher says
What a picturesque and remarkable region. Very interesting post and nicely illustrated with lovely photographs
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! Glad you liked it!
Tanja says
Troyes looks great! and the pink cake:) #mondayescapes
Ruth says
Those pink biscuits are delicious! I am obsessed with them.
Lolo says
I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to visit this region! I really need to start exploring more of France! Saving this! #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
You should! I am sure this place is well connected with Bavaria. And, the food is divine!
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
If Champagne wasn’t enough of a reason! I’ve been lucky enough to visit this region several times and visit Troyes too. It is all completely delightful and I would gladly go back tomorrow! #mondayescapes
Ruth says
Elizabeth, I have read some of your post on the region. So nice you have been to visit with your husband and kids. I get chills when I think about the region. I am hoping to see the cute towns and beautiful vineyards.
Sally's Tips 4 Trips says
For me, the number reason for visiting Champagne would be to have real Champagne 😉 But also to learn about its production and what looks like an amazing distribution city.
Ruth says
Sally, I think you want to visit for the correct reasons. Hope you make it there one day.
Yogi says
Well, I am convinced. I would love to visit this region.
Ruth says
Ha, ha! I like you got that feeling from the post.
Tania says
Such beautiful photos! I particularly loved the Medieval buildings of Troyes. There’s always something very Hansel-and-Gretal about them, I feel!
Ruth says
Isn’t that town gorgeous? I would love to visit (and other places in the area).
Corey @ fifi + hop says
Champagne and beautiful countryside – could there be anything better?! Pinning..#mondayescapes
Ruth says
Thanks Corey! Glad you enjoyed the post.
Travelling With Our Kids says
Love looking at the old style buildings. The church is stunning too! Looks like a great region to explore #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
Yes, the church is gorgeous. Look at all the details! Reims is full of historical buildings.
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says
Troyes looks beautiful, and I want to try that biscuit rose!
Ruth says
Believe me, you want to try that biscuit. It is so good!
Sallie (FullTime-Life) says
Beautiful scenery, good food, good wine, fine architecture and interesting history. How could you not love this place!
Ruth says
Sallie, that is true! I am not sure why it does not get way more visitors.
Lady Fi says
Gorgeous shots. And that cathedral – wow!
Ruth says
Yes, the cathedral is gorgeous!
Anna says
I’ve visited the area years ago and it is beautiful indeed. All those hillsides and the vineyards! I’ve visited both Moet et Chandon and Mercier and loved their tours as well!
Ruth says
Thanks for sharing your experience! I am sure these champagne houses know how to delight customers.
Christine Keane @ The Journey of Christine says
I only need one reason to visit Champagne! lol Okay maybe two, those biscuit rose look amazing!
Ruth says
See,now you have two or more reasons! It is a no brainer.
Annette, Four Acorns says
I once explored Reims on foot in the dead of winter. The highlight of this bitterly cold day was a chocolate waffle bought off a street cart. I must go back in summer, it looks stunning!
#MondayEscapes
Ruth says
I love waffles and I am sure they are delicious in Reims! Yes, you have to visit during summer.
Van says
I love champagne! Forget wine, I’m not a wine drinker at all so a visit to a vineyard would be completely wasted on me but I’d love to learn how champagne is made … and enjoy it with a nice meal of course 😉
Ruth says
Well, the area is famous for its wines but I think this post makes clear there is a lot to see and do. There is a bit for all tastes.
Ashley @ The Wandering Weekenders says
We’re finally making our way to France later on this year, and I was dying to visit Champagne, but I don’t think that we’ll have enough time! We’ve recently become obsessed with sparkling wine, so I would fangirl over getting to visit actual places that produce Champagne, not to mention that the region looks so beautiful!
Ruth says
I am visiting France too but will not be able to stop by here. It will have to be on a future visit.
Antonio says
come to visit my Naples (Italy)….
hello Ruth, have a nice day
Ruth says
Antonio, thanks a lot. I really want to visit Naples and Southern Italy (I went there once).
Antonio says
I’m glade if you would come to visit my blog too 🙂
Al says
It looks like a beautiful area, both the town and the countryside.
Ruth says
Great you liked it!
Ali May says
Your advice about staying longer in Champagne than just a day trip from Paris is definitely a must. I did the day trip to Reims on the TGV and wish I could have spent 3 or 4 days exploring this beautiful part of the world. We visited the ancient cellars of Taittinger and walked past many of the other world famous champagne houses. I did not know about the UNESCO World Heritage Site status, so that is fantastic news! The region is truly remarkable!
Ruth says
Ali, I am glad you agree with what is exposed on the article. I think a trip to the region is more special than what people think.
jesh StG says
Thanks for your visit! I live in a vineyard region, and it’s a great atmosphere seeing them in the landscape. I rather have wine than champagne:) But this cathedral is world renown, and it’s easy to see why – so regal!
Ruth says
I love to visit the Santa Ynez Valley, so, I understand the trill of driving around a wine region.
Photo Cache says
I don’t know my champagne 🙂 but I would welcome a chance to visit the Champagne valley/region.
Ruth says
Ha, ha, I get you. Glad you still have a desire to visit the region.
Jackie Smith says
I love champagne and this is a definite on my must get to list. Great post.
Ruth says
So good Jackie! I think this is one of those places that should be in many travelers list.
Bumble Bee Mum says
Not exactly what I imagined a UNESCO World Heritage site to be! I want to go there for the pink cookies. Lol.. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
I get you! I am sure you will find plenty of delicious things to eat in the area!
budget jan says
Those pink biscuits look amazing. None of the biscuits I make are cooked twice! Should I call them scuits?
Ruth says
Jan, that is so funny! The thing is that we call biscuits to a lot of things. The thing is that they are not true biscuits.
Pat says
What a fabulous post, Ruth! I’m pinning this in case I’m fortunate enough to plan a trip to France in the future, as I’d love to visit the Champagne area. I loved visiting Sonoma, Nappa and Paso Robles wine regions of California multiple times and absolutely loved those vacations.
Ruth says
It would be great if you are able to plan a trip to France! No doubt the wine regions in California are very beautiful.
Sharon says
Ruth, this is a fascinating post. I was just considering venturing to this area on our next trip to Europe in the summer. We’re flying home from Paris so we will be in the region. Reims especially looks so charming. Thanks for all the photos and info!
Ruth says
Sharon, where are you going? I am sure you have a great adventure planned.
Birgit | Groove Is In The Heart says
This truly is a wonderful place to visit and remains one of my travel highlights. I love champagne and visiting its home was a very special experience. Veuve Clicquot is still my favourite… and the cathedral in Reims is an absolute must see. Thanks for a great post!
Ruth says
So good you were able to visit the area. I think the experience lives in the memory forever.
Lydia C. lee says
That looks so lovely!! I can’t believe it’s only 45 minutes from Paris. I’ve never been there!
Ruth says
Yes, it is! There is a lot that can be done from Paris!
Rhonda Albom says
I thought that I didn’t like champagne until I had a particular variety at a morning tea. This is when I learned that I just don’t like cheap champagne. If I had known how close Reims was to Paris, I would have day tripped to the region when I was in Paris several years ago. I think it would be amazing to visit the Avenue de Champagne.
Ruth says
Rhonda, have to agree with you. The cheap stuff and the copycats are not going to make the cut. They deceive more than other thing.
Paula Mcinerney says
The Champagne region is so much more than champagne, and that is a very good thing. It is a region that caters for everyone’s needs.
Ruth says
Paula, that is true. I am glad you reiterate that.
Allison says
Champagne looks so beautiful! I love the top picture with the windmill. #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
That is the windmill of Vernay, a landmark of the region.
Phoebe | Lou Messugo says
What’s not to love about Champagne, both the place and the drink? We used to go often when we lived in Paris, we had a great supplier of bubbles who we liked to visit regularly to top up our stocks and even now we sometimes get bottles delivered to home in the south! Wouldn’t you like to link this up to #AllAboutFrance too? (visiting form #farawayfiles
Ruth says
That sounds great Phoebe! You know how to do things properly. I will add the post to the link.
Phoebe says
Revisiting to thank you for adding this to #AllAboutFrance
Kat says
The best and most important reason has to be for the champagne 🙂 #photofriday
Ruth says
Cannot argue with that!
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
Oh, it’s so so pretty and charming!
Ruth says
Yes, Marcella. It is a region to explore slowly while enjoying all the natural beauty and long standing traditions.
Erin Klema | The Epicurean Traveler says
Your post is giving me serious wanderlust. The Champagne region has been on my bucket list for a while now because of the wine. So much bubbly! I didn’t realize the region was also home to more than one UNESCO Heritage Site though. Whenever I get the chance to visit this region of France, I hope I have plenty of time to visit as many of the famous Champagne houses and as well as some of the smaller of the 15,000 vintners in the region as I can. I want all the wine! #WeekendWanderlust
Ruth says
There are a lot of things people do not realize about the area. Even its famous product exist because of certain reasons. It is interesting to learn how all of that happened.
Anda says
I don’t think I need all these reason to visit the region of Champagne. The simple fact that I love the drink is enough for me (LOL!) #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
I get that! Some people need a lot of convincing while other would like to visit for obvious reasons.
Gordon says
We have been through the Burgundy region. Looks like the Champagne region will have to be next
Ruth says
I am sure that region is adorable too! I need to see more of France.
Buckeroomama says
Ooh, the biscuit rose looks and sounds divine!
Ruth says
Yes, it is! That was one of my best discoveries of the region.
Mini Travellers says
I was reading another post earlier about Champagne and wondering now whether to go there with my hubby for my 40th later this year! Thanks for linking up to #MondayEscapes.
Ruth says
Now we are talking! Looks like this is the perfect area to celebrate a big birthday! Hope you can plan something memorable.
Sarah says
I knew champagne was from champagne… but never knew how accessible it is from Paris – definitely storing that in the travel plans folder in my brain ahaha. Also side note – you are in so many link ups!!! How do you handle them all?? I’s amazing tho – will def check some of them out 🙂
Ruth says
Yes, the region is very close to Paris (that is a mega positive). For the link ups, I accommodate time to work on the one I entered on a specific day. I try not to accumulate the work I have to do for them. Plus, if I enter, I make sure I follow the rules (or do more than what the rules say).
Michelle says
I would love to visit Champagne! I have only visited France two times and only seen Paris and Versailles. This region is so picturesque and rich in history. I would love to visit all those champagne houses especially the Veuve Clicquot house.
Ruth says
France is a big country (when compared to other European countries). I have seen only a little of it. Would like to allocate time to learn more about the country.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
I’d love to visit Reims – Champagne, pink biscuits and a stunning cathedral, you don’t need many more recommendations than that! I’ve been to Troyes – it’s such a pretty medieval town and there are some fantastic factory outlets for cheap designer French clothes there too. Thanks for sharing with us on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Well, you have to make plans to stop by Reims. I am sure you will enjoy the city and the area.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Sounds like a fun event! We are hoping to get to Reims in September on a France road trip if we have time. I haven’t spent much time in that region.
Ruth says
A road trip around France would be fantastic! I will be visiting Strasbourg and Colmar in May. I want to try the good food and see the colorful houses.
Elizabeth says
I love champaign and visiting the area has been one of the highlights for me. I love all your beautiful photos and encouraging others to visit as well. I was worried it wouldn’t be very accessable if you weren’t very “into” wine, but instead found it approachable. Thanks for sharing. #WeekendWanderlust
Ruth says
Elizabeth, thanks for sharing your perspective. I am sure it is useful to other who are considering a visit to the area.
budget jan says
Those vineyards and the grapes themselves look divine, and the cathedral – WOW.
Ruth says
Everything in here is awesome! Do you agree?
Mary-the boondocks blog says
What an incredible region. That cathedral alone would be reason enough to want to visit. I remember in college seeing that cathedral in my art history books and just staring in awe! Of course the champagne doesn’t hurt either.
Ruth says
Mary, very interesting! I think this Cathedral is a masterpiece in many ways.
Antonio says
good Woman’s Day… dear Ruth 🙂
Ruth says
Thanks!
Lyn @ A Hole in my Shoe says
This is an area I would love to include next time we are in France… and not just for the bubbles.
Ruth says
Lyn, hope you are able to visit soon.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
Nine great reasons for spending time in Reims! We once got caught in a horrible hail storm there. Ice chunks the size of golf balls! I guess that doesn’t really count aas a reason to go there, though! Thanks for linking up! #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
Wow! You guys have been everywhere in Europe. I guess this doesn’t count as a visit but I imagine you have plans to return.
Juergen | dare2go says
The Champagne region of France is not the only part of this big country overlooked by the ‘average’ traveller. There are many more regions worth a visit – and each has its own distinct heritage and cuisine.
Why one would have to dye a cookie to hide vanilla seeds is beyond me. I would take the evidence of real vanilla as a sign of quality (in the days of artificial vanilla aroma). #WeekendWanderlust
Ruth says
I am sure France has a lot of of overlooked regions. Your reasoning about the biscuit makes sense but I think these people were more into the aesthetics of their product.
Jonny (Daisy the bus) says
Very interesting. Living in nearby Luxembourg, I have to sadly confess that we have always considered Champagne as a place to zip through as quickly as possible en-route to more “exciting” destinations. Looks like we should slow down next time and explore more of this oft-overlooked region. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Hmm, seems like a lot of us see the grass greener on other other sides. It would be nice if you guys take some time to discover this nearby region.
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
Ummmm… champagne. J’adore. Haven’t been to actual Champagne region yet, but would love to! Thanks for the reminder and linking with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Ruth says
You are closer than me, so, you should go.
Lauren says
This area looks absolutely stunning! I’ve been to Paris and to the South of France, but never really thought of visiting Champagne. Now I have 9 reasons to make the trip next time I’m in the area though 😀
Ruth says
That is true Lauren! More reason to go back to France.
Kreete says
Seems like it’s totally worth the visit! I have heard so much about this region working in hospitality industry, that I would check it out even if someone said it’s not worh it haha! Love your photography and the whole experience seems like something really special and I mean who doesn’t love champagne? Apart for my partner of course who hates it haha!
Ruth says
I am sure you have learned to appreciate the real product of the region.
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
I loved learning all about this region. What a fascinating area full of history and architecture and of course, all that wine. We’re going to be in Paris this summer and I’m so tempted to do this day trip. That Biscuit Rose looks so good!
Ruth says
Cool! I am glad you are going to Paris! I am sure that trip would be awesome.
Sarah Chirsitie says
Oh wow it looks just incredible, I so want to visit and wander those fairy tale streets. Thanks so much for linking up #Mondayescapes
Ruth says
I am sure the streets of the villages in the area will feel out of this world.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Gosh, we’re going to need to spend much more time in France! We have not been to the Champagne region…among many others that we’d like to visit! Sometimes we think the only answer is to move there! One day, I think we will, even if only for a while.
Ruth says
Rob, agree with you. France is a big country and you would need like 30 years to visit the majority of it.
Glori says
Nice post!! Question: how do you get to the area where you can see the winery and windmill (your second photo) what do you put on your gps? Thank you!
vinneve says
Good to know!