Champagne-Ardennes

Champagne-Ardennes is situated on the North-East border to Belgium. It is best known for it’s world class vineyards producing the popular drink, Champagne. The region is filled not only with rolling green countryside and extensive vineyards. Not to mention, mediaeval monuments and fortified hill towns.

Unsurprisingly, the most popular activity in the region is champagne tasting. There are many tour operators who will offer guided tours. These go into the history and process of producing champagne.

If history and architecture is more your thing why not check out the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral. Built on the former site of a church. It is best known for being the location of coronations for the kings of France. Its exterior has impressive Gothic Art portals, spires and statues. Whilst inside visitors can gaze at its famous stained glass rose window.

After seeing where the French kings get coronated, why not visit the Palace du Tau. French Kings to be would stay here the night before the coronation. This UNESCO World Heritage Site derives its name from the Greek letter Tau, because of its T-shaped layout. The palace houses the Musee de l’OEuvre which displays tapestries and statues. As well as other cathedral treasures associated with French coronations.

Troyes is considered to be the historic capital of the Champagne-Ardennes region. This medieval town features narrow cobbled streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses. Troyes has many outstanding monuments, such as the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. In addition, the Musée Saint-Loup (museum of archeology and fine arts) and the Musée d’Art Moderne.

Travelling to Champagne-Ardennes by Ferry

Although Champagne-Ardennes is positioned on the coast, there is not a direct ferry from the UK to Champagne-Ardennes.  You will need to sail to one of the northern French ports. From here is will be a scenic drive through the French countryside and onto the Champagne-Ardennes region.