Highlights include the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, the Orient Forest Regional Natural Park, and the Ardennes mountain range, all of which are easily accessible from Paris.
Champagne-Ardenne also has plenty to offer in terms of culture, with five towns labeled as "Towns of Art and History." The Fortified Château of Sedan is booming during the famous medieval festival of Sedan. The UNESCO-protected cultural heritage destination of Reims boasts the religious buildings of Châlons-en-Champagne, the ramparts of Langres and the important industrial heritage of Troyes
Champagne-Ardenne, an absolute must for wine lovers
This feast of flavors pairs perfectly with the locals wines of the region, with Champagne, of course, at the top of the list. At the Lighthouse of Verzenay in the heart of wine country, all the secrets of this sought-after beverage are revealed. The Côte des Blancs is the prerogative of Chardonnay and of the Blanc de Blancs champagne. A visit and tasting session in the cellars and vineyards of Champagne is an absolute must for oenophiles. The famous Veuve-Clicquot Cellars allow visitors to explore the crayères (chalk passages) underneath Reims, while in Epernay, the Avenue de Champagne houses some of the greatest Champagne houses, several of which offer tasting sessions.
Learn about Champagne at the Taittinger HQ
The headquarters of these Champagne producers lies just a short bus ride to the southeast of the city center. Tour the cellars, some of which are located in Roman stone quarries dating back to the 4th century, and others which were excavated in the 13th century by Benedictine monks. Of course, don’t leave without enjoying a taste of Taittinger’s bubbly at the end.
Tour the Palais du Tau
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palais du Tau is the former residence of the archbishop of Reims and served as a place for French kings to host post coronation banquets. Today the Palais is a museum boasting religious relics from the cathedral and an assortment of tapestries and statues.
Visit the Cathédrale Notre Dame
This Gothic cathedral, built in 1211, features stained glass windows, a 12-petaled rose window, a Gothic organ case, and an astronomical clock built in the 15th century. Numerous French kings have been crowned at this UNESCO World Heritage Site; perhaps most the most famous event at the cathedral was the coronation of Charles VII in 1429.
Take in history at the Musée de la Reddition
As the name suggests, this museum focuses on the German surrender in World War II, and is housed in the building in Reims where US General Eisenhower made his temporary base. Visitors can see the Allied battle maps still hanging on the walls, as well as exhibits of military photos, artifacts and a short film.
Visit Café du Palais
Family-owned since it opened its doors in 1930, this unique and stylish cafe features Art Deco design and a skylight. Order a glass of champagne and enjoy the opulent collection of funky artifacts and art decorating the room. On a sunny day, snag an outdoor table.
Known not only for its famous bubbly beverage, but it is also known as a beautiful region filled with great lakes and natural parks.