Exploring the Champagne Tourist Route from Epernay

As you know, Épernay is widely recognised as the capital of Champagne. Before heading into the vineyards, a stroll along the Avenue de Champagne is a must. This iconic avenue brings together the most prestigious Champagne houses and kilometres of underground cellars carved into the chalk.

Different routes from Epernay

From Épernay, the Champagne Tourist Route offers several circuits depending on your preferences: notably the Montagne de Reims, the Côte des Blancs, and the Marne Valley.

• In the Montagne de Reims, you reach Reims by crossing vineyards, forests, and traditional villages.

• The Côte des Blancs, south of Épernay, is the kingdom of Chardonnay. It features a landscape of vine-covered hills, hilltop villages, and elegant cellars.

• Finally, the Marne Valley meanders along the river, with Pinot Meunier vines, small villages, châteaux, and charming views.

What to see and do

• Visit Champagne houses and their cellars. Many offers guided tours, explanations of the winemaking process, and of course — tastings.

• Enjoy the vineyard landscapes: endless vines, rolling hills, panoramic views. The route offers varied scenery depending on the chosen circuit.

• Discover traditional villages, ancient churches, historic winegrowers’ houses, and lesser-known châteaux — an appealing blend of built heritage and natural surroundings.

Practical tips for your excursion

Plan for a full day or a weekend, depending on your pace. From Épernay, it’s easy to combine several circuits. Many Champagne houses require booking for visits — it’s best to plan ahead. By car, the route is well signposted and smooth. But you can also opt for slower-paced walks or bike rides along certain circuits, ideal for soaking up the scenery.

Where to stay in Epernay

For a refined and immersive Champagne Route experience, staying at Villa Eugène in Épernay is an excellent choice. This charming residence, once owned by the Mercier family, combines historic elegance with modern comfort. Located on the Avenue de Champagne, it offers direct access to the region’s greatest Champagne houses and serves as an ideal base for exploring the different circuits. Its leafy setting, outdoor pool, and luxurious rooms offer perfect relaxation after a day of discovery and tasting. A stay that blends the Champagne art de vivre with a true oenological escape.

Why it’s a unique experience

Because the Champagne Route brings together terroir, heritage, history, landscape, and wine culture. Starting from Épernay means entering the very heart of a world-renowned wine region. Because each itinerary reveals a different face of Champagne — from hills and valleys to villages, cellars, and prestigious houses.

Because tasting on site transforms a simple visit into a truly sensory and cultural immersion.

In short, a visit to the Champagne Route from Épernay is far more than a simple journey: it’s an immersive voyage into the soul of Champagne. Whether you’re passionate about wine, drawn to beautiful landscapes, or simply curious, this experience is sure to enchant and leave a lasting impression.