Champagne: Paris - Epernay

When you think of champagne you can hear the sparkling. But did you know it is a beautiful and easy cycling trip from Paris to Reims? You cycle through rural countryside via the region of Meaux famous for its Brie cheese, into the vineyards of the Champagne Region. At Epernay you cross the centre of the Champagne industry. You will end in Reims, with its cathedral where almost all kings and emperors were crowned until 1825.

Character of the tour

This one week tour along the Marne leads to Epernay and Reims while crossing the steeper slopes that suit the moderate to experienced biker. Daily average of the whole tour 45 Km or 4 hrs by bike.

Summary

Day 1 Saturday, Paris Arrival at the barge, cruise on the Seine upstream to the confluence of the rivers Seine and Marne.

Day 2  Sunday, Paris – Lagny leave Paris near the Bois and chateau of Vincennes. 

Day 3 Monday, Lagny - Meaux - La Ferté sous Jouarre. The region of Brie today, famous around the world for its soft cheese. We ride into Meaux, with its unfinished Gothic cathedral. 

Day 4 Tuesday, La Ferté sous Jouarre - Chateau Thierry. Countryside with some hills. First vineyards of the Champagne-region.Visit Chateau Thierry.

Day 5 Wednesday, Chateau Thierry – Damery A ride along the river today with a few hills. Visit to park and memorial of the Great War, World War.

Day 6 Thursday, Damery – Epernay Through Champagne vineyards to Epernay, the center of the Champagne industry, and visit one of the many Champagne houses for a guided tour in the cellars.

Day 7 Friday, Visit of Reims. After a short train trip we visit the ancient town of Reims. Until 1825 the coronation of all kings took place in the cathedral of Reims. 

Day 8 Saturday, Epernay. Tour ends after breakfast.