The end of COVID-19 travel restrictions will call for a celebration, and why not celebrate in the home of Bubbly in the Champagne region of France! Located in the north of France is the famous Champagne region home to Veuve Clicquot and Mumm as well as many other winemakers. A two-hour train ride from Paris to Reims or Epernay make for a great home base both within easy distance to some of the best Champagne Houses.
Visit the Champagne Region of France
Epernay
Epernay - Champagne Region
Epernay is usually the first stop or base for anyone visiting the area as it is the center of the region and provides easy access to the surrounding vineyards. The main street is also home to some of the region's best know wines, including Moet & Chandon, Perrier Jouet, Pol Roger, as well as biodynamic Champagne house Leclerc Briant, to try something new.
Reims
Reims - Champagne Region
Reims has plenty of attractions other than the local wines including its Gothic Cathedral, but Ruinart and Taittinger both have Champagne houses here as well. As it is a university town the evenings are a bit livelier in Reims, coupled with Michelin-starred restaurants, local restaurants and wine bars.
Best time to visit
Visit Champagne During October and November
They say that once you have visited Champagne you become addicted, so take your first visit slow and get to know the area. The best time to visit is after the harvest from October to November especially if you want to visit smaller independent vineyards who will be too busy to welcome visitors during the harvest. Going in Autumn will also give you the chance to see the region changing seasons, moving from vivid green to deep reds and gold. Many of the champagne houses require you to book ahead so make sure you book your visit before arriving.
Getting there
Qatar Airways flies from Australia to Paris
Qatar Airways flies to Paris from Australia with the world's best business class, the Qsuite, in which nothing has been overlooked and exudes a feeling of first class. The unique QSuite features fully flat beds, and the option to convert your space to a private pod for 2 or 4. Read more about the Qsuite here. While in the air you will be served a seasonal menu featuring fresh produce, read our review of the Spring menu here.