Quick Facts:
✔ A peaceful, rural atmosphere just a short train ride from Paris.
✔ Prestigious wine culture paired with affordable country homes.
✔ Rich history and beautiful architecture.
Champagne-Ardenne: Sparkling Wines and Historic Landscapes
Known as the birthplace of champagne, Champagne-Ardenne is a region of elegant vineyards, rolling hills, and historical depth. Located in northeastern France, it’s a place where luxury and simplicity coexist — with prestigious wine houses, peaceful countryside, and charming villages waiting to be explored.
CHAMPAGNE-ARDENNE
Where is Champagne-Ardenne?
Champagne-Ardenne is located just east of Paris and is part of the modern Grand Est region since 2016. However, it proudly maintains its independent identity, especially around its world-famous champagne production.
Key Areas of Champagne-Ardenne
Marne (51): The heart of Champagne country, home to Reims and Épernay.
Aube (10): Vineyards and picturesque towns like Troyes, famous for medieval timber-framed houses.
Ardennes (08): Heavily forested, with dramatic hills and rivers — ideal for outdoor adventures.
Haute-Marne (52): A tranquil, rural department known for lakes and fortified towns.
Weather in Champagne-Ardenne
The region has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Rainfall is fairly steady year-round making it perfect for grape growing! Autumn, during the harvest, is a particularly beautiful time to visit.
Champagne-Ardenne’s Rich History
From Roman times through the World Wars, Champagne-Ardenne has been at the crossroads of French history.
Highlights:
Reims Cathedral: Where French kings were traditionally crowned.
Battlefields of the Marne: Key WWI sites that can still be visited today.
Medieval Troyes: A stunningly preserved town, once a bustling market center.
Things to Do in Champagne-Ardenne
✔ Tour Champagne Houses: Visit legendary producers like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger.
✔ Explore Reims: A vibrant city blending Roman ruins, Gothic architecture, and modern energy.
✔ Cruise the Marne River: A relaxing way to experience vineyard landscapes.
✔ Hike or Cycle in the Ardennes: Wooded hills and river valleys provide endless trails.
✔ Visit Lake Der-Chantecoq: One of Europe's largest artificial lakes, ideal for birdwatching and water sports.
Champagne-Ardenne Cuisine
Chaource Cheese: A soft, creamy cheese from Aube.
Andouillette de Troyes: A traditional, rich sausage.
Champagne: The undisputed star, made only in this region under strict regulations.
Biscuits Roses de Reims: Pink biscuits, perfect for dipping in champagne!
Whether you're toasting with a glass of fine champagne or wandering through ancient cathedrals, Champagne-Ardenne offers a rich, authentic slice of French life — perfect for history lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed, elegant pace of life.