A taste for heights
Fancy a unique weekend in Champagne combining nature, sport, fine dining and new experiences?
This micro-adventure, accessible by train from Paris, offers the chance to discover another side to the Champagne vineyards, with cycling, Champagne tastings, rock climbing and spectacular scenery in the heart of the Côte des Blancs.
Even if you don’t have a car or any particular sporting experience, this two-day getaway in Champagne offers the perfect blend of gentle adventure, local culture and the great outdoors.
Day 1: from Épernay to Vertus, in the heart of the Champagne vineyards
After arriving by train in Épernay, the capital of Champagne, head to the coach station to travel to Vertus on the Mouvéo network’s L11 route. In under 40 minutes, the scenery changes completely: you’ll find yourself amidst the vineyard-covered slopes listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as the ‘Slopes, Houses and Cellars of Champagne’, and the iconic landscapes of the Côte des Blancs.
In Vertus, hire bikes are available for visitors to explore the roads of the Champagne vineyards. Passing through wine-growing villages, rows of vines and panoramic views of the hillsides, this cycle ride allows you to discover one of Champagne’s most beautiful terroirs at a leisurely pace.
It’s impossible to travel through Champagne without enjoying a tasting experience. A stop at Domaine Charles Pougeoise offers the chance to discover several Champagne cuvées, accompanied by local produce. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about traditional Champagne-making methods and how the bottles are aged in the cellars.
The day continues in an authentic setting at the Relais du Vigneron, a charming hotel nestled amongst the vineyards. This family-run establishment offers a complete immersion in the world of Champagne, with breathtaking views of the vineyards.
In the evening, the Terre de Craie restaurant showcases local cuisine and Champagne pairings in a warm and refined atmosphere.
** This account was written by the Chilowé team, who came to try out this microadventure.**
- A day out in the countryside amongst vineyards, cliffs and the great outdoors
Day 2: hiking, climbing and panoramic views of the vineyards
After breakfast overlooking the vineyards, head out onto the paths of the Côte des Blancs for a walk through the heart of the Champagne vineyards. This walk takes you to a little-known natural site: Les Falloises!
Here, the landscape changes completely. Under the guidance of Vincent from Cordévasion, visitors learn the basics of rock climbing and abseiling on natural cliffs hidden amongst the vineyards.
Combining learning climbing techniques, pushing your limits and experiencing thrills, this activity offers, above all, exceptional panoramic views of La Champagne and its vineyard-covered hillsides.
At lunchtime, a picnic featuring local produce is enjoyed at the foot of the cliffs, surrounded by nature.
In the afternoon, continue the experience with some more technical climbing routes before heading to Épernay for the train journey back to Paris.
** This story was written by the Chilowé team, who came to try out this microadventure.**
Why choose this micro-adventure in Champagne?
This getaway to Champagne is appealing because of its accessibility and the variety of experiences on offer :
- A weekend break accessible by train from Paris
No need for a car - Cycle rides through the Champagne vineyards
- Tastings at local producers’ premises
- Charming accommodation in the heart of the vineyards
- Outdoor activities and thrills
- Climbing and hiking in the Côte des Blancs
- Discovering Champagne’s wine-growing heritage
Practical information
Duration: 2 days – 1 night
Best times of year: April through September
Difficulty level: Easy
Organized by: the Chilowé team
- Directions
• Nearest train station: Epernay Station - Budget ideas
• Tasting tour at Domaine Charles Pougeoise: premium tour, €15 per person
• Dinner at Terre de Craie restaurant: 4-course menu for €49
• Overnight stay at the Relais du Vigneron hotel: double room starting at €125 - What to Bring
• 35-liter backpack
• 2 liters of water per person
• A love of climbing
• Good sneakers
• Hat or cap
• Rain gear (just in case)
What can you do in Champagne over a weekend?
This micro-adventure proves that Champagne is about more than just wineries and wine tastings. With its outdoor activities, fine dining, UNESCO heritage sites, and opportunities to meet winemakers, the Champagne region is the perfect destination for a weekend of nature and adventure near Paris.
Micro-adventures in Champagne: What if your adventure began just a stone's throw from home?
Friendly Water Bottle
Explore Epernay and its vineyards at your own pace thanks to the Gourde Friendly network. Whether you’re on foot, by bike, or visiting the villages of Champagne, there are plenty of refill stations available where you can fill up your water bottle for free.
In partnership with HOALI, Epernay Agglo Champagne provides an interactive map listing drinking water stations and “Gourde Friendly” partner establishments located across the 47 municipalities in the region.
A practical way to stay hydrated throughout your stay while taking a simple step toward more sustainable tourism.
