Épernay – The Sparkle and Fizz of France
Home to the prestigious Champagne houses of France. Epernay is located in the wine region of northern France about 130km north-east of Paris. Easily accessible via road (2hrs) or train (1.30hrs).
The surrounding hillside landscape, champagne houses and cellars are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage. It is the cultural wine landscape of Champagne which is recognised for its Outstanding Universal Value.
Within this chalky landscape, the French have succeeded in producing a wine appreciated all over the world. The miles and miles of cellars that snake through its soil is home to the maturing champagne.
Épernay Bubbles over with Elegance
This quaint town is nestled between rolling vineyards and forests. It is set on the bank of the Marne River, a famous river that winds through and besides many Champagne villages.
Whilst Epernay, the town, is not the most pretty of French towns, it has at its heart the Avenue de Champagne. A wide avenue that oozes elegance and style. It is known as the ‘Champs-Élyées’ of Épernay.
It’s the perfect destination for a weekend trip or mid-week getaway. Additionally, if you’re looking for a romantic break, or a trip with friends or family, you will not be disappointed.
On a sunny day, Épernay is at its best. You can walk around, soaking in the exquisite architecture and reflecting on the history hidden behind the walls.
However, Épernay is not only what you see above ground. Underground it has a life of itself.
The chalk below houses 70 miles of cellars dug deep below ground. These cellars hold more than 200 million bottles of the golden sheen.
Avenue de Champagne
The ‘piece de resistance’ in Épernay is its prestigious Avenue de Champagne. Over half a mile of grandiose private mansions and large Champagne houses.
These twenty or so houses warmly welcome you in through their grand doors. They proudly explain to you their ancestral heritage and secrets of their luxurious product.
They offer many wonderful wine tours . You can go on cellar visits, walk in the vineyards, understand the production side or simply enjoy the tastings.
Peppered amongst the big players in the world of Champagne – Moët & Chandon, Mercier, Dom Perignon amongst others, you will also find some lesser well known houses. Thus enabling you to sample a variety of bubbles from the region.
Most of the houses are open Mon-Sun from 9.30am to 4.30am in the high season (May-October). I highly recommend visiting in the warmer months.
They have opulent courtyards where you can sit and soak in the atmosphere. All this, whilst sitting back and enjoying a flute of champagne and delicate nibbles.
Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum
Chateau Perrier was initially built to house the mansion and cellars of Charles Perrier, heir and director of the Perrier-Jouët Champagne House.
This former home to the Perrier wine merchants, showcases all that the area is famous for. Indeed, champagne’s expansion throughout the world was the driving force behind the build of this extravagant home.
Nowadays, the house acts as a Museum to tell the story of the Champagne region, from the formation of its soil several million years ago to today.
This beautiful chateau is an Eclectic mix of architecture, typical to this region. Through the doors, you will find yourself in opulent rooms with elaborate decorations throughout.
Whilst under your feet, you will learn about the industrious life that went on deep below ground. You will be amazed at the many cellars that were dug out and connected to the railway line.
As if this is not enough, Chateau Perrier prides itself over the most beautiful gardens where you can stroll around and imagine yourself back in the late 1800’s.
Tower of Champagne de Castellane
If you’re looking for a little workout before you indulge with champagne, how about climbing 237 steps. At the top of this 66m high tower, you’ll enjoy a great 360 panoramic view of Epernay and the surrounding area.
The House de Castellane and its cellars also offer a tour if you wish to learn more. Although it no longer produces wine here, its wooden barrels, stainless steel vats and early production tools offer an incredible insight into early Champagne production.
The Mason de Castellano wine, in fact, one of the best known wine brands in the region.
The Ballon d’Épernay
For €16, the Ballon d’Épernay is a fun way to pass 15 minutes. Particularly so, for those of you who like the idea of ascending to the skies in a hot air balloon. However, do not like the idea of freely floating off into the clouds.
This ‘Ballon’ is tethered to the ground some 150m above Epernay and its vineyards. This allows you to experience the incredible 360 degree panoramics below with a certain level of security.
There is a guide who provides information in both English and French.There is also a champagne tasting ticket (€26) which means your tasting experience does not need to end.
Opening hours: 7 days a week 10.00-13.00 and 14.00-18.00
Activities on Offer in Épernay
There are various ways of discovering the Champagne region if you’re looking to be more active. You’ll get the opportunity to discover more of the stunning landscape and savour the many panoramic views over the city if you read my activities summary below.
The Tourist Office of Épernay has a guidebook/leaflets on the various leisure pursuits including hiking and cycling routes from 45 minutes to 11 mile trails.
On Land:
Alternatively, why not enjoy the Champagne vineyards whilst relaxing on the River Marne? You can sit back and enjoy the landscapes, flora and fauna from a very different angle.
On Water:
- A private cruise on the Bullet 1927. This superb vintage launch takes two to six people. You can accompany this peaceful experience with Champagne tastings and even a visit to the cellars upon request;
- Paddle Steamer offering champagne and lunch on board the Bateau Champagne Vallee 1.5hrs guided cruise;
- hire your own electric boat. No licence required. Blue Nautic . Open May-September. It has an open-air restaurant with a terrace on the banks of the Marne
Á votre Santé!
If you’re driving through France or taking time out from Paris, please consider a visit to Épernay. The rolling countryside is quite beautiful particularly in the summer months.
However, if you also like your bubbles, then this is most definitely a city you need to visit! It will not disappoint. Please take a look at My 2 Day Itinerary in Épernay to compliment this guide.