Reims

Regal, refined and romantic, Reims truly sparkles

Lanson. Taittinger. Pommery. Ruinart. Dom Pérignon. The who’s who of the winemaking world are in residence in Reims. Begin in vintage style with a glimpse inside renowned Champagne Houses and cellars – from timeless maisons to Reims’ rising stars. Join the Grand cru and tour the Gallo-Roman chalk caves where the quarries are now wall-to-wall sparkling bottles of Champagne. Then walk in the footsteps of princes and saints, as UNESCO landmarks, neoclassical villas and postcard-perfect villages take you on a journey back in time.

Things to do

FOOD & DRINKS
Sipping Champagne is almost a rite of passage in Reims. Go deeper into winemaking tradition in the crayères, soaring caverns that now hold the appellation’s finest vintages. Beyond the city, stay ahead of the cuvée on trails through beautifully bucolic countryside. In Hermonville, see an artisanal Champagne cooperage – the only one of its kind. On to Trépail, peek inside the Loges de Vigne where winegrowers have long sought shelter from the elements.

LANDMARKS
All cobbled roads seem to lead to the UNESCO consecrated Cathédrale Notre Dame. As your gaze rises to take in the façade in all its Gothic glory, picture the centuries of monarchs who have been crowned and anointed here. Inside, it’s a little like being in the middle of a kaleidoscope. Count off as many as you can of the 2,000 statues. Look for the smiling Ange au Sourire. Then climb the towers to swap sacred sights for a sweeping city panorama. 

HISTORY
Before arriving at the Cathedral, the soon-to-be-crowned princes of France would stay at Palais du Tau. Majestic – and mere steps from Notre Dame – it’s easy to see why. Wind your way through the museum here, set within the UNESCO-protected mansion, to see relics, talismans and ornate treasures that have survived the French Revolution. Look closely at Charlemagne’s Talisman – at the centre of this ornate jewel is said to be a remnant of the Cross of Christ.

Top Tip from SLH

For Champagne connoisseurs, Reims is the springboard to wine trails that flow across vineyards and cellars, through the National Forest of Verzy and its ‘fairy trees’